Oral
History Project 
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Step 3: Conducting the Interview q 1. Set the feeling tone for the interview: When you meet the person you will be interviewing so introduce yourself and thank the person for agreeing to do the interview. Explain the purpose of the interview and how you plan to use it. Try to make the interviewee as comfortable as possible. Having good sensitivity in the interview is very important. Be prepared to deal with painful moments with humanity and sensitivity and also be thoughtful and caring during the interview. q 2. Set up Equipment: Don’t make a big deal about the equipment. Get it set up and test it by asking the interviewee to state their name and address into the microphone. We suggest using clip on lavaliere mikes vs. stand up mikes. Be sure that the mike is turned on and the tape recorder volume is set properly. It is wise to bring a partner or friend along to keep track of the equipment while you concentrate on the interview. Common sense dictates that you bring a second person along to interview someone in his or her home. q 3. Prepare the Person: Say the following to the person you are interviewing “Please just share your story with us today. Share any memories you may have. The more you talk, the better. I’ll ask questions at the end.” q 4. Start the Tape Recorders: When you are ready to start the interview, make sure the tape recorders are turned on and the cassette tapes are recording. Use two recorders in case one fails. Start out the interview by saying, “I’m talking with ______ who is going to be sharing his/her experiences during (name of event).” Stop and play the tape to make sure it is operating and the voice is loud and clear. q 5. Let the Interviewee Talk: Let the person talk. Remember that the interviewee should do most of the talking. It is extremely important that you show interest in what the person is saying. Your body language needs to show interest. You can do this with eye contact and nodding your head. Do not be afraid of occasional silences. Give the interviewee think time. Do not fill the silences with another question. Keep a moderate pace and allow interviewees to completely finish answering a question before asking another. Also, make sure you ask follow up questions. Use your outline of questions, but remain flexible. Always remain unbiased during the interview. q 6. Get Consent: Either at the start or at the end of the interview, go over the “Interview Consent Form”. Getting this form signed by the interviewee is critical because it gives you the right to use the interview in your project. The consent form also informs the interviewee about how you will be using the interview. q 7. Word/Name list: Consider asking the interviewee to help you with spelling keywords, locations, and names. Also inquire about any additional materials such as photographs and diaries that might help you in your History Day research.
Step 1: The Pre-Interview Stage Step 2: Preparing for the Interview Suggestions For Using Oral Histories
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