Data Collection
Data were collected using semi-structured one-to-one interviews. A
bespoke semi-structured schedule was developed for the study, and was
designed to act as a guide to ensure specific topics were addressed,
whilst also allowing for unanticipated responses (Galletta, 2013).
Prompts and probes were utilised where necessary to encourage
participants to elaborate on their answers and to clarify unclear
responses. Interviews lasted on average 26 minutes (16.5-41.3 minutes
range). Broad topics covered in the interview schedule included
wellbeing during the pandemic, coping strategies, relationships,
experiences of and feelings towards lockdown and COVID-19, and changes
to schooling, e.g. “I wondered if you could tell me a bit about
what school has looked like for you during lockdown? What did you think
of this?”
Due to on-going COVID-19 restrictions, the interviews took place online
via Microsoft Teams and fully informed opt-in assent was taken prior to
the interview beginning. To account for ethical concerns when
interviewing young people, care was taken to minimise power imbalances
and to ensure participation was voluntary and fully informed. For
example, prior to starting the audio recording, the researcher
introduced themselves to the young people and engaged in light
conversation to build rapport (Arksey & Kinght, 1999; Cohen et al.,
2007; Eder & Fingerson, 2003). They also explained the study in detail,
reiterated that the study was voluntary and that they could stop at any
time, and offered an opportunity to ask questions. The young people were
asked to think of a pseudonym for anonymity purposes. Young people were
offered the option to choose their own pseudonym to increase feelings of
control and ownership of their data (Allen & Wiles, 2016).