Office of Research, Evaluation and Policy Studies

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Transcribing

The Office of Research, Evaluation, and Policy Studies provides transcription services for qualitative data such as interviews and focus

Digital recordings are preferred. Please Note: We are only able to transcribe the following digital formats: MP3, WAV, DVF, or MSV. We are also able to transcribe standard cassette tapes.

Please use the form below for transcribing requests:

• Tape or CD Transcription Request Form & Policy Rates.

Transcription Charges

INDIVIDUAL Interviews:

15 minute tape or CD-time, 1 person or 1-on-1 interview................. $  25.00

30 minute tape or CD-time, 1 person or 1-on-1 interview................. $  50.00

45 minute tape-or CD-time, 1 person or 1-on-1 interview................. $  75.00

60 minute tape or CD-time, 1 person or 1-on-1 interview................. $100.00

GROUP Interviews:

Same as above for first 2 parties PLUS per each additional party for each 15 minutes of recording-time $10.00.

HELPFUL HINTS FOR TAPE or CD RECORDING

1. Current CD transcription capability is recordings in file formats WAV, MP3, DVF or MSV.
2. Current tape transcription capability is standard audio cassette tapes.
3. Prior to commencing the interview, identify the tape or CD by verbally recording on the tape the Interviewer’s name, project name and date, followed by stating the first names of all persons participating in the interview. Late-coming interviewees should also be identified by their first names.
4. Choose an interview site that eliminates or at least minimizes background noise. Background noises often obliterate the speakers’ voices.
5. If using a previously used tape, erase everything from the tape before beginning to record.    Occasionally previously recorded information will bleed through and can be heard simultaneously with the current recording, which makes it impossible to transcribe the current recording.
6. Set the tape recorder speed at about mid-way of the range.
7. Set the tape recorder volume at about three-fourths of the range.
8. Place the tape recorder equidistance from each interview participant.
9. If using a BATTERY OPERATED TAPE RECORDER, check the batteries with a tester to ensure that they are strong.  Weak batteries affect the pick-up volume and may run completely down in mid-interview.
10. Label the tape or CD with the same Interviewer’s name, project name and date as requested in Item 3.
11. Discourage dual or multiple simultaneous voices during recording.
12. In group interviews, request participants to identify themselves by first name each time they present information.
13. Request interview participants to speak firmly, clearly and in a well modulated voice to facilitate tape pick-up.

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