A full-scale discussion of the many practical issues one encounters when recording human interaction would require an entire book. In this appendix, I will limit myself to a few practical tips that should allow students to avoid some commonly made mistakes and hopefully guarantee a minimum quality of recording. Students and fieldworkers who intend to become more knowledgeable in this area should consult other existing sources, especially Jackson (1987) and Goodwin (1993). I will start with a few tips on how to get ready for recording sessions, followed by tips on how to use a microphone, record on audio tapes, and record on video tapes.

Preparation for recording

Getting ready

The use of any type of recording equipment other than pencil and paper requires special attention to the preparatory conditions for recording. Machines need special care and must be routinely checked to ensure their best performance during recording. In addition, it is important to develop a set of steps to follow before, during, and after the recording session.

1. The day before recording, check all the equipment to make sure it works properly and make sure that the batteries are fully charged.

2. Develop a check list of all the things you must remember, including a list of the different pieces of equipment you need to take with you. After the recording session is over, you can use the same list to make sure that you take back the same pieces you brought to the site.

3. […]