Example of an interview Script Outline

An interview script helps the moderator and scribe ensure the following:

  • All of the participants receive the same information
  • None of the information is left out
  • Consistency in the data collection process

Good scripts include the following information:

  • Welcome
  • Introductions
  • Purpose of the project
  • Review and signing of the consent form (provide a copy of a blank consent form for their records or recommend they take a photo of it)
  • Demographic form (if applicable)
  • Participant questions about the study
  • Consent form collection (if they did not agree to participate, kindly ask them to leave)
  • Rules of engagement
  • Participant introductions (depending on the topic you may want them to make up a name, rather than share their actual name)
  • 8-10 questions and potential follow up questions
  • Summary from the scribe
  • Last thoughts from the group
  • Share resource page (if applicable)
  • Thank you for your time
  • Pass out incentives
  • Scribe and moderator debrief

Here are some examples of rules of engagement for focus groups:

  • One person should speak at a time
  • Be respectful to each other
  • What is said within this group stays within this group
  • Mute yourself when you aren’t talking (for virtual focus groups)
  • Be mindful and present
  • We want to hear from everyone