Chapter 7

Question 1

What is a focus group?

Answer 1

This is where a group of participants come together and provide their experiences, and share their insights on those experiences - they would listen, reflect on what is being said, and reconsider their own position. As the discussion progresses, responses become sharper and more refined.

Question 2

What is the Delphi method?

Answer 2

• This is utilized when a focus group is unable to be formed- it is when participents (often experts) are questioned by the researcher.
  ○ The researcher then concludes and summarizes their answer and shares that summary with the experts.
  § They would generally give feedback.
  This process is repeated until theoretical saturation has been acquired.

Question 3

Describe the process of a group: (5)

Answer 3

1. Forming - the group comes together in a state of uncertainty and chaos.
2. Storming - the roles are divided and the goal is clear.
3. Norming - the standard is set, the roles are clear
4. Performing - where the task is performed
5. Adjourning - the group breaks up

Question 4

A focus group goes through the following phases: (5)

Answer 4

1. Scene setting and ground rules - researcher introduces the study and expectations.
2. Individual introductions - the researcher askes respondents to introduce themselves.
3. The opening topic - the researcher introduces the first topic and begins the discussion.
4. The discussion - the researcher listens and actively observes
5. Ending the discussion - final topic is agreed upon in advance. The researcher ends the discussion and thanks the group.

Question 5

What are the roles of a researcher within the discussion section of the focus group? (5)

Answer 5

• Controlling the discussion
• Probing for fuller response
• Noting non-verbal language
• Controlling the balance between individual contributions
• Focusing on participants personal views

Question 6

Some further ways of stimulating new thinking and reflective discussion in group processes: (4)

Answer 6

• Encouraging in-depth exploration of emergent issues
  
  • Exploring diversity of view
  • Challenging social norms and consensus
    ○ This can be done by playing devils advocate
  • Using enabling and projective techniques

Question 7

What should be considered when forming a focus group? (3)

Answer 7

1. Composition- the selection of the participants
   a. Homogenous - people are similar therefore answers will be similar
   b. Heterogeneous - diverse set of people, diverse answers.
2. Size- the scale of the participants
   a. Large groups- better for breadth of information.
   b. Smaller groups- better for in-depth information.
3. Interaction
   a. Observer- watches the group and behavior.
   b. Supervisor- they mediate and guide the conversation.