Focus Group Discussions – a step-by-step guide
Although epidemiology is more focussed on quantitative research (quantity – “numbers”), qualitative research (quality – “insight”) can be important to supplement this. A Focus Group Discussion (FGD) is a qualitative research technique consisting of a structured discussion and used to obtain in-depth information from a group of people about a particular topic. Epi Result has recently developed a guide which provides the user with an overview of the steps required to conduct a FGD.
Although epidemiology is more focussed on quantitative research (quantity – “numbers”), qualitative research (quality – “insight”) can be important to supplement this. For example, information gained from written surveys (qualitative research) could by clarified in a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) (qualitative research).
A FGD is a structured discussion used to obtain in-depth information from a group of people about a particular topic. The purpose of a focus group is to collect information about people’s opinions, beliefs, attitudes, perceptions, not to come to consensus or make a decision.
For a collaborative project between the University of Limpopo and the Flemish Interuniversity Council (VLIR) Epi Result developed a guide which provides the user with an overview of the steps required to conduct a FGD (including the resources required) and instructions about what you do with the information when you have completed the FGDs.
The guide addresses the following topics:
- What is a FGD; uses; strengths and weaknesses.
- FGD protocol: introduction, literature review, methods, work plan, budget, reporting.
- Facilitator guide: questions, facilitation skills, logistics.
For those interested, download here: Focus Group Discussions – a step-by-step guide