How can researchers effectively overcome confirmation bias?

Using open-ended questions in interviews is an effective method for researchers to overcome confirmation bias, as this approach encourages participants to express their thoughts and experiences in their own words. Open-ended questions allow for a wider range of responses, which can reveal insights that may not align with the researcher’s preconceived notions or hypotheses. This type of questioning creates an opportunity for participants to share diverse perspectives, thus helping to mitigate the risk of the researcher only seeking information that confirms their existing beliefs.

In contrast, closed-ended questions limit responses to predefined options, which can lead to a narrow focus and might reinforce existing biases rather than challenge them. Avoiding user feedback entirely would prevent researchers from gaining valuable insights that could highlight gaps in their understanding, while relying solely on secondary research data may restrict the insights derived from real user experiences that are crucial for informed design decisions. Engaging directly with users through open-ended inquiries enables the discovery of new information and alternative viewpoints, which is essential for a holistic understanding of user needs and behaviors.