What type of data collecting method involves asking participants open-ended questions?

Interviews are a qualitative data collection method that allows the researcher to gather in-depth responses from participants by asking open-ended questions. This approach encourages participants to express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in their own words, leading to richer and more nuanced data. In an interview setting, the researcher can explore topics in more detail and adapt questions based on participants' responses, fostering a conversational flow that can uncover insights that might not emerge in more structured formats.

In contrast, the other methods, such as closed-ended surveys and structured questionnaires, gather data through fixed questions with predetermined response options, limiting the depth of responses. Observation methods involve the researcher watching participants without direct questioning, focusing on behavior rather than individual insights. Thus, interviews are uniquely suited for situations where understanding the subjective perspectives of individuals is essential.