Interviewing is necessary when the researcher needs special information that
cannot be observed. People’s intentions, feelings, interpretations or attitudes are all
important pieces of data for a case study researcher. In this study, the researcher
conducted one on one structured interviews, thirty minutes in length with an
administrator, such as the principal with a set list of questions that involve the leadership
concerns and professional development support systems necessary to align the vision
with teacher needs and instruction (Appendix A). The researcher also interviewed a total
of three teachers from grades 9-12 who teach core subjects, Social Studies, Science and
Mathematics (Appendix B). The questions touched on perceptions of the administrative
vision and integration of 21 st century skills into current instruction. In the framework
from the Partnership of 21 st Century Skills (2002), one of the goals for 21 st century
learning is the integration of thinking and learning skills into the content subject
curricula. To gain more insights, the researcher asked questions aimed to elicit
descriptions of experiences, behaviors and actions that would have been observable if the
researcher were present at the time. For instance, the researcher asked how the
participants approach lesson planning and instruction. Other questions delved into the
values of the district’s 21 st century educational program, such as activities that promote
student collaboration, rigor and technology skills. In addition, the researcher asked
questions aimed to understand emotional responses to professional and reflective
experiences.