Asylum interview method

The aim of this module is to prepare asylum officials to conduct a personal asylum interview using the asylum interview method to gather sufficient, relevant and reliable information to assess an application.

This module focuses on the asylum interview method – the structured interview protocol put forward by EUAA that is based on research relating to structured interview protocols in other domains, such as psychology, law and social studies. This module adapts these protocols to the specific characteristics of the personal interview and the asylum procedure. The focus is on the five stages of the EUAA Asylum Interview Method (prepare; open; free narrative; explore; and closing) and how to manage the psychological, cultural and environmental factors that may influence the interview process. The module reflects the requirements set out in the Qualification Directive and focuses on cases that do not rely on complex applications of interviewing skills.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

1. Analyse factors that may influence the personal asylum interview and identify strategies to address them

2. Analyse an asylum case to plan and prepare a personal asylum interview

3. Apply and adapt interview techniques to ensure that the relevant information is gathered from an applicant for international protection

This module is delivered through a blended learning methodology (online, face-to-face and independent learning). Online learning uses learning activities that assess progress toward the learning outcomes and face-to-face sessions focus on complex elements that require discussion and physical practice.

The assessment strategy is based on two assessments at the end of the module. The first assessment measures the broad range of knowledge and skills needed for performing an interview, including the psychological, cultural and environmental factors that may influence the personal asylum interview. The second assessment follows a simulation of the five phases of the asylum interview method and is based on a case study to ensure that the assessment is representative of the job tasks.