1. CONDUCTING FOCUS GROUPS HCOM Dr. S. I. Matz

2. Characteristics Size – 7 to 12 small for inclusiveness; –Large enough for diversity Participants – similar, yet unfamiliar Data Collection Procedure Focused discussion Information gathering –What they know or don’t know –Perceptions, attitudes, challenges

3. Purpose Identify who will use the information Determine what information is needed Know why the information is needed

4. Checklist for Focus Groups Advance notice –½ weeks before session –Send a letter or invitation –Give reminder call prior to session –Slightly overrecruit the number

5. Questions Introductory-answered quickly –Not identify status of participant Flow in a logical sequence Focus on critical issues of concern Use considered probe or follow-up q’s Limit the use of “why” questions Use “think back” questions as needed –Memory booster

6. Logistics Room satisfactory (size, tables, comfort) Moderator arrives early – check room, etc. Background noise Name tags or tents for participation If taping session, tape recorder with extra batteries Plan topics for small talk conversation Seating/experts, loud, shy, quiet Sufficient handouts

7. Moderator skills Well rested and alert for session Practice introduction without notes Remember questions without notes Cautious to avoid head nodding Avoid comments that signal approval –Excellent, great, wonderful Avoid giving personal opinions

8. Immediately After Session Prepare a brief written summary of key points as soon as possible Write up without discussion – it dilutes answers and feedback Check to see if the tape recorder (if used) captures the comments

9. Focus Group Results Analysis of purpose of study Qualitative and quantitative data Translation & interpretation Look for consistencies Reporting of data Raw data → descriptive statements → interpretation Final summary and findings

10. Interpretation (vocal emphasis & inflection) Comment This was GOOD. This was GOOD? THIS was good! This WAS good. Translation It was good. It was suppose to be good, but wasn’t. This one was good, others were not. It used to be good, but not anymore.