Focus on focus groups

Focus groups.

This paper introduces focus group methodology and discusses its relevance to those researching health care provision. As a qualitative data collection technique, the focus group has advantages over other qualitative methods, such as the in-depth interview and nominal group technique. This paper highlights these advantages after providing guidelines on group composition, the management of group ...

Maintaining your focus in focus groups: avoiding common mistakes.

Focus groups are used frequently in nursing research as a method for collecting qualitative data. However, due to inadequate planning or execution, the results can be of poor quality or even worthless. A well-defined purpose, carefully planned environment, and well trained personnel are discussed as the cornerstones to focus group success. This article sets the stage with a description of a wel...

Making sense of focus groups.

CONTEXT This paper provides an overview of the contribution of medical education research which has employed focus group methodology to evaluate both undergraduate education and continuing professional development. PRACTICALITIES AND PROBLEMS It also examines current debates about the ethics and practicalities involved in conducting focus group research. It gives guidance as to how to go abou...

Focus Groups as Qualitative Research

Focus groups: principles and process.

Richard Redmond and Elizabeth Curtis describe the process of conducting focus groups. It is specifically aimed at students undertaking research methods modules and those planning to use focus groups as a means of collecting data. It begins with a discussion of the uses of focus groups before moving on to discuss some of the many activities associated with the planning, organising and conducting...