scholarly journals Intersectoral Cooperation in 12 European Case Studies Aiming for Better Health, Environmental Sustainability, and Health Equity: Protocol for a Qualitative Evaluation (Preprint)

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nina van der Vliet ◽  
Lea Den Broeder ◽  
María Romeo-Velilla ◽  
Hanneke Kruize ◽  
Brigit Staatsen ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Data Analysis ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Case Studies ◽  
Environmental Sustainability ◽  
Lifestyle Changes ◽  
Group Method ◽  
Intersectoral Cooperation ◽  
Facilitators And Barriers ◽  
Cross Country

BACKGROUND The INHERIT (INtersectoral Health and Environment Research for InnovaTion) project has evaluated intersectoral cooperation (IC) in 12 European case studies attempting to promote health, environmental sustainability, and equity through behavior and lifestyle changes. These factors are the concerns of multiple sectors of government and society. Cooperation of health and environmental sectors with other sectors is needed to enable effective action. IC is thus essential to promote a triple win of health, sustainability, and equity. OBJECTIVE This paper describes the design of a qualitative study to gain insights into successful organization of IC, facilitators and barriers, and how future steps can be taken to improve IC in the evaluated case studies. METHODS Each case study was assessed qualitatively through a focus group. A total of 12 focus groups in 10 different European countries with stakeholders, implementers, policymakers, and/or citizens were held between October 2018 and March 2019. Five to eight participants attended each focus group. The focus group method was based on appreciative inquiry, which is an asset-based approach focusing on what works well, why it is working well, and how to strengthen assets in the future. A stepped approach was used, with central coordination and analysis, and local implementation and reporting. Local teams were trained to apply a common protocol using a webinar and handbook on organizing, conducting, and reporting focus groups. Data were gathered in each country in the local language. Translated data were analyzed centrally using deductive thematic analysis, with consideration of further emerging themes. Analyses involved the capability, opportunity, motivation-behavior (COM-b) system to categorize facilitators and barriers into capability, motivation, or opportunity-related themes, as these factors influence the behaviors of individuals and groups. Web-based review sessions with representatives from all local research teams were held to check data analysis results and evaluate the stepped approach. RESULTS Data collection has been completed. A total of 76 individuals participated in 12 focus groups. In December 2019, data analysis was nearly complete, and the results are expected to be published in fall 2020. CONCLUSIONS This study proposes a stepped approach that allows cross-country focus group research using a strict protocol while dealing with language and cultural differences. The study generates insights into IC processes and facilitators in different countries and case studies to filter out which facilitators are essential to include. Simultaneously, the approach can strengthen cooperation among stakeholders by looking at future cooperation possibilities. By providing knowledge on how to plan for, improve, and sustain IC successfully to deal with today’s multisectoral challenges, this study can contribute to better intersectoral action for the triple win of better health, sustainability, and equity. This protocol can serve as a tool for other researchers who plan to conduct cross-country qualitative research. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT RR1-10.2196/17323

scholarly journals Intersectoral Cooperation in 12 European Case Studies Aiming for Better Health, Environmental Sustainability, and Health Equity: Protocol for a Qualitative Evaluation

10.2196/17323 ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 9 (6) ◽  
pp. e17323
Author(s):  
Nina van der Vliet ◽  
Lea Den Broeder ◽  
María Romeo-Velilla ◽  
Hanneke Kruize ◽  
Brigit Staatsen ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Data Analysis ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Case Studies ◽  
Environmental Sustainability ◽  
Lifestyle Changes ◽  
Group Method ◽  
Intersectoral Cooperation ◽  
Facilitators And Barriers ◽  
Cross Country

Background The INHERIT (INtersectoral Health and Environment Research for InnovaTion) project has evaluated intersectoral cooperation (IC) in 12 European case studies attempting to promote health, environmental sustainability, and equity through behavior and lifestyle changes. These factors are the concerns of multiple sectors of government and society. Cooperation of health and environmental sectors with other sectors is needed to enable effective action. IC is thus essential to promote a triple win of health, sustainability, and equity. Objective This paper describes the design of a qualitative study to gain insights into successful organization of IC, facilitators and barriers, and how future steps can be taken to improve IC in the evaluated case studies. Methods Each case study was assessed qualitatively through a focus group. A total of 12 focus groups in 10 different European countries with stakeholders, implementers, policymakers, and/or citizens were held between October 2018 and March 2019. Five to eight participants attended each focus group. The focus group method was based on appreciative inquiry, which is an asset-based approach focusing on what works well, why it is working well, and how to strengthen assets in the future. A stepped approach was used, with central coordination and analysis, and local implementation and reporting. Local teams were trained to apply a common protocol using a webinar and handbook on organizing, conducting, and reporting focus groups. Data were gathered in each country in the local language. Translated data were analyzed centrally using deductive thematic analysis, with consideration of further emerging themes. Analyses involved the capability, opportunity, motivation-behavior (COM-b) system to categorize facilitators and barriers into capability, motivation, or opportunity-related themes, as these factors influence the behaviors of individuals and groups. Web-based review sessions with representatives from all local research teams were held to check data analysis results and evaluate the stepped approach. Results Data collection has been completed. A total of 76 individuals participated in 12 focus groups. In December 2019, data analysis was nearly complete, and the results are expected to be published in fall 2020. Conclusions This study proposes a stepped approach that allows cross-country focus group research using a strict protocol while dealing with language and cultural differences. The study generates insights into IC processes and facilitators in different countries and case studies to filter out which facilitators are essential to include. Simultaneously, the approach can strengthen cooperation among stakeholders by looking at future cooperation possibilities. By providing knowledge on how to plan for, improve, and sustain IC successfully to deal with today’s multisectoral challenges, this study can contribute to better intersectoral action for the triple win of better health, sustainability, and equity. This protocol can serve as a tool for other researchers who plan to conduct cross-country qualitative research. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) RR1-10.2196/17323

User-centered Requirements for Patient Fluid Intake Monitoring Support

2020 ◽  
Vol 64 (1) ◽  
pp. 736-740
Author(s):  
Ellen J. Bass ◽  
Andrew J. Abbate ◽  
Yaman Noaiseh ◽  
Rose Ann DiMaria-Ghalili
Keyword(s):  
Data Analysis ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Real Time ◽  
Information Needs ◽  
Fluid Intake ◽  
Fluid Consumption ◽  
Registered Dietitians ◽  
Group Data ◽  
Focus Group Data

There is a need to support patients with monitoring liquid intake. This work addresses development of requirements for real-time and historical displays and reports with respect to fluid consumption as well as alerts based on critical clinical thresholds. We conducted focus groups with registered nurses and registered dietitians in order to identify the information needs and alerting criteria to support fluid consumption measurement. This paper presents results of the focus group data analysis and the related requirements resulting from the analysis.

scholarly journals Precincts and Prospects in the Use of Focus Groups in Social and Behavioral Science Research

2015 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dominic Sagoe
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Behavioral Science ◽  
Science Research ◽  
Group Method ◽  
Behavioural Science ◽  
Behavioral Science Research ◽  
Social And Behavioral Science ◽  
Focus Group Method ◽  
Practical Recommendations

Over the past few years, the focus group method has assumed a very important role as a method for collecting qualitative data in social and behavioural science research. This article elucidates theoretical and practical problems and prospects associated with the use of focus groups as a qualitative research method in social and behavioural science research. The core uses of focus groups in social and behavioural science research are discussed. In addition, the strengths and limitations of employing focus groups in social and behavioural science research are elucidated. Furthermore, the article discusses practical recommendations for strengthening the focus group method in social and behavioural science research.

scholarly journals Analysing the ways of participating in interview settings: young people’s identity performances and social class in focus groups

2019 ◽  
Vol 20 (5) ◽  
pp. 649-666
Author(s):  
Anu Katainen ◽  
Riie Heikkilä
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Vulnerable Groups ◽  
Group Method ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Deprived Neighbourhoods ◽  
Situated Identity ◽  
The Social ◽  
Study Setting ◽  
Focus Group Method

Critical discussions on the focus group method have highlighted the importance of considering the forms of interaction generated in groups. In this empirical paper we argue that these forms of interaction are intimately linked to the ways participants interpret the study setting, and these interpretations are likely to differ significantly depending on participants’ social backgrounds. In the light of our data consisting of 18 focus groups with 15-year-old school pupils from both affluent and deprived neighbourhoods of Helsinki discussing film clips about young people drinking alcohol, we ask what kinds of modes of participation are mobilised in focus group discussions in order to mark the social position of participants. We further analyse these modes in relation to situated identity performances, arguing that contextual factors of the study setting become especially important to consider when researching vulnerable groups and heterogeneous populations. The analysis yields three modes of participation: these are active/engaged, resistant/passive and dominant/transformative. We argue that these modes can be viewed as actively taken positions that reveal what kinds of identities and competences participants are able and willing to mobilise in the study setting, and that recognising these modes is important in all interview settings.

The Focus Group Method in Practical Ecclesiology: Performative Effects and Ecclesiological Rationale

2015 ◽  
Vol 2 (2) ◽  
pp. 235-254 ◽  
Author(s):  
Henk de Roest
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Mixed Method ◽  
Group Method ◽  
Research Project ◽  
Advantages And Disadvantages ◽  
Focus Group Method

The author gives an analysis of the methodological advantages and disadvantages of using focus groups in practical ecclesiology. He makes a plea for including focus groups in a mixed method strategy in practical ecclesiological research, being attentive to their performative effects. He asks, if ecclesiology governs the methodological design of a practical-ecclesiological research project, should not methods that focus on conversational practices and how people build up a view out of the interaction that takes place within a group, be pulled into the heart of the research? In his reply to this question, the article gives a relational-constructionist, an ecclesiological and a theological rationale for using focus groups.

scholarly journals Feasibility of Virtual Focus Groups in Program Impact Evaluation

2021 ◽  
Vol 20 ◽  
pp. 160940692110198
Author(s):  
Suzanne Nobrega ◽  
Mazen El Ghaziri ◽  
Lauren Giacobbe ◽  
Serena Rice ◽  
Laura Punnett ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Data Collection ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Video Conferencing ◽  
Qualitative Evaluation ◽  
Working Environment ◽  
Group Method ◽  
Institutional Diversity ◽  
Program Outcomes ◽  
Privacy Measures

Focus groups are often used for qualitative investigations. We adapted a published focus group method for evaluating impact of an organizational intervention for virtual delivery using video conferencing. The method entailed convening small groups of three to five participants for a 2-hour facilitated workshop. We delivered the virtual workshops, adding qualitative evaluation with researchers and participants, to assess the effectiveness of the protocol. We address the questions of how to structure the data collection procedures; whether virtual delivery permits cross participant interactions about a studied intervention; and how easy and comfortable the experience was for participants. Participants were university faculty members who were the focus of an institutional diversity program. The results indicated that the virtually delivered focus group workshop could be successfully implemented with strong fidelity to the original protocol to achieve the workshop goals. The workshops generated rich data about the impacts of the institutional program as well as other events and conditions in the working environment that were relevant to consider along with the observed program outcomes. A well-planned virtual focus group protocol is a valuable tool to engage intervention stakeholders for research and evaluation from a distance. Video conferencing is especially useful during the current COVID-19 pandemic, but also whenever geography separates researchers and evaluators from program stakeholders. Careful planning of privacy measures for a secure online environment and procedures for structured facilitation of group dialogue are critical for success, as in any focus group. This article addresses a gap in the literature on feasibility and methodology for using video conference technology to conduct qualitative data collection with groups.

scholarly journals Participant experiences of the DWELL programme: focus group findings on motivation, experiences, facilitators and barriers

2020 ◽  
Vol 30 (Supplement_5) ◽  
Author(s):  
S Manship ◽  
E Hatzidimitriadou ◽  
R Morris ◽  
S Hulbert ◽  
J Webster ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Illness Perceptions ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Glycated Haemoglobin ◽  
Evaluation Study ◽  
Lifestyle Changes ◽  
Self Management ◽  
Eating Behaviours ◽  
Focus Group Data

Abstract Initiatives to increase effective, low-cost self-management are essential to the sustainability of care for type 2 diabetes (T2D), however research shows that there is currently no standard approach. The DWELL programme seeks to motivate and empower people with T2D to better self-manage their condition through focussed content underpinned by motivational interviewing. As part of the DWELL evaluation study, end-of-programme focus groups were conducted to elicit participant experiences. 33 focus groups with 153 participants (including a small number of partners) took place in the two UK DWELL delivery sites. The focus group data was subjected to thematic content analysis to elicit key themes. Findings indicate that DWELL participants are motivated through a desire for better knowledge and management of their diabetes. Facilitating factors of the programme include: facilitator and peer support; the holistic and autonomous approach which provides participants with the opportunity to better understand the condition and its impact on their whole lives; and a tailored individual approach. Barriers and suggested improvements include content and operational changes, which are fed back to DWELL facilitators as part of the process evaluation in order that they can continually update the programme. Participants report positive outcomes in terms of wellbeing, social and mental health, enhanced knowledge and positive lifestyle changes. These themes align with quantitative outcome measures for participants, including weight loss, reduced BMI and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), enhanced empowerment and improved eating behaviours and illness perceptions and control. Interim findings suggest that DWELL outcomes include improved health literacy, participant empowerment and self-management. These findings underscore the need to incorporate a holistic, tailored approach to structured patient education for T2D.

The focus group method in libraries: issues relating to process and data analysis

2003 ◽  
Vol 31 (3) ◽  
pp. 272-284 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marilyn Von Seggern ◽  
Nancy J. Young
Keyword(s):  
Data Analysis ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Group Method ◽  
Focus Group Method

scholarly journals PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS OF CROWDSOURCING IMPLEMENTATION IN THE ASSESSMENTS OF RESIDENTS OF THE NCFD MUNICIPALITIES (results of focus groups)

2020 ◽  
pp. 178-182
Author(s):  
С.В. Алиева ◽  
И.В. Долгова ◽  
Н.Н. Киселева
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Empirical Data ◽  
Federal District ◽  
Group Method ◽  
North Caucasus ◽  
The North ◽  
Focus Group Method

В статье представлены результаты исследования проблем и перспектив реализации краудсорсинга в муниципальных образованиях СКФО на основе метода фокус-групп. Исследование было нацелено на выявление отношения жителей СКФО к внедрению краудсорсинга в управление муниципальными образованиями, их оценки относительно выбора форм коммуникации, характера мотивов участников и получения эффектов реализации краудсорсинговых проектов. В результате интерпретации полученных эмпирических данных были сделаны обобщения и выполнена систематизация выявленных трендов. The article presents the results of a study of the problems and prospects of crowdsourcing implementation in the municipalities of the North Caucasus Federal District based on the focus group method. The study was aimed at identifying the attitude of residents of the North Caucasus Federal District to the introduction of crowdsourcing in the management of municipalities, their assessment of the choice of forms of communication, the nature of the motives of participants and obtaining the effects of the implementation of crowdsourcing projects. As a result of the interpretation of the obtained empirical data, generalizations were made and the identified trends were systematized.

scholarly journals Understanding How Parenting & Family Literacy Centres Help Families Experiencing Poverty & Immigration

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eleanore Jane Realmo
Keyword(s):  
Data Analysis ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Systems Theory ◽  
Thematic Analysis ◽  
Family Literacy ◽  
Ecological Systems ◽  
Ecological Systems Theory

This study examines the various ways in which Parenting and Family Literacy Centres (PFLC) can support families in relation to needs that arise from poverty and immigration. Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory was used as a theoretical lens in this study. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data collected from 12 focus groups. Three main themes related to immigration and poverty and the supports from PFLCs emerged from the data analysis: (1) Environment; (2) Resources; and (3) Socializing. The findings present the parents’ responses from their participation in the focus group and are an indication of how parents believe PFLCs can support them. Implications of these results are discussed and recommendations for educators are provided.

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