scholarly journals The Unfocused Focus Group: Benefit or Bane?

2014 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nancy Franz
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Best Practices ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Lessons Learned ◽  
Group Facilitation ◽  
Science And Art ◽  
Group Facilitators

Facilitating successful focus groups requires both science and art. One element that can fully challenge focus group facilitators includes how to handle the unfocused focus group. This article describes "unfocus" and the benefits and disadvantages of unfocus in focus groups. Lessons learned from and approaches taken on this journey are shared to enhance focus group facilitation best practices.

scholarly journals Lessons Learned in Abruptly Switching from In-Person to Remote Data Collection in Light of the COVID-19 Pandemic

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Crystal Walker ◽  
Loretta Williams ◽  
Trimika Bowdre
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Best Practices ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Research Study ◽  
Lessons Learned ◽  
Consent Forms ◽  
Research Population ◽  
Scheduling Tool ◽  
Demographic Surveys

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, a research study that utilized in-person focus groups to collect qualitative data was abruptly shifted to videoconference focus groups to minimize risk to subjects. Protocol amendments consisted of using an online scheduling tool to arrange focus groups by Zoom, providing electronic versions of consent forms and demographic surveys, and highlighting security features of the videoconference software. Lessons were learned from making an abrupt switch from in-person to remote focus groups. Making this type of shift is not simply a matter of switching for researcher convenience but includes determining the appropriateness of an abrupt switch for the research population of interest, fully understanding videoconference software best practices, decreasing focus group sizes, and increasing the incentive for participation.

scholarly journals Advantages, Disadvantages, and Lessons Learned in Conducting Telephone Focus Groups to Discuss Biospecimen Research Concerns of Individuals Genetically at Risk for Cancer

2014 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alexis Koskan ◽  
Janique Rice ◽  
Clement Gwede ◽  
Cathy Meade ◽  
Ivana Sehovic ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
At Risk ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Health Research ◽  
Lessons Learned ◽  
Perceived Benefits ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Focus Group Research ◽  
Telecommunication Technology ◽  
Group Research

Advances in telecommunication technology allow biomedical researchers to explore new, inexpensive opportunities for conducting focus group research. This article reports our experiences using such technology to engage individuals genetically at risk for cancer about biospecimen research. Telephone-based focus groups were conducted with a total of 40 individuals, and participants were asked about their experiences and perceived benefits and limitations of participating in a telephone focus group about biospecimen research. The lessons learned can effectively be applied to other areas of health research. In particular, this method may be most useful to engage individuals who are less apt to speak in public, and/or when there are concerns over privacy if face-to-face discussions methods are used.

scholarly journals Using Focus Groups in Preliminary Instrument Development: Expected and Unexpected Lessons Learned

2014 ◽  
Author(s):  
Slyvia Nassar-McMillan ◽  
Mary Wyer ◽  
Maria Oliver-Hoyo ◽  
Amy Ryder-Burge
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Instrument Development ◽  
Clinical Case ◽  
Contextual Information ◽  
Lessons Learned ◽  
Item Generation ◽  
Occupational Stereotyping ◽  
Group Data ◽  
Focus Group Data

Focus groups can be utilized effectively across various stages of instrument development. This article details selected aspects of a process in which they were employed at the initial stages of item generation and refinement in a study of occupational stereotyping. The process yielded rich contextual information about the worldview and corresponding terminology of participants. In addition, the use of a tool developed and previously employed as an approach to clinical case notes (i.e., SOAP notes), produced surprising benefits in documenting the focus group data. The purpose of this paper is to describe this process and highlight the insights that emerged. The process and outcomes have methodological implications for qualitative researchers conducting focus groups as well as for those developing new surveys, scales, and measurements.

scholarly journals The Focus Group Must Go On: Lessons Learned from Conducting Virtual Focus Groups

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 844-844
Author(s):  
Ashlee Cordell ◽  
Christa Wilk ◽  
Silvia Orsulic-Jeras ◽  
Sara Powers ◽  
Farida Ejaz ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Life Story ◽  
Early Stage ◽  
Human Subjects ◽  
Lessons Learned ◽  
Community Dwelling ◽  
Care Staff ◽  
Alternative Methods ◽  
Virtual Setting

Abstract The Covid-19 pandemic has presented a multitude of challenges in conducting research with human subjects. In response, researchers have found creative ways to complete these studies using alternative methods that incorporate social distancing. Fortunately, numerous technologies exist today that allow individuals to connect with one another over short and long distances. The current study describes the development of LifeBio Memory: an app-based product that utilizes artificial intelligence and machine learning to improve an existing life story intervention designed for persons living with dementia (PWD). Seven focus groups (n=35), originally planned in-person, were successfully converted to a virtual setting. Groups were hosted using a Zoom platform, lasted 75-90 minutes (Mean = 85; SD = 5.3), and consisted of participants from 14 different states: One group of community-dwelling PWDs with early-stage dementia (n=5); two groups of current and former users of the original LifeBio program (n=12); and four groups of residential care staff and directors (n=18). Virtual focus group delivery was determined to be an acceptable and feasible alternative to traditional in-person formats. Topics discussed in this poster will include: 1) recruitment procedures, 2) screening protocols, 3) methods for sharing materials, 4) guidance for providing technology support, and 5) communication strategies to increase retention. Further discussion will focus on challenges faced when collecting data in a virtual setting, tips for successful facilitation, advantages to using virtual alternatives, and other lessons learned from the virtual field.

scholarly journals Sensitive Health Topics With Underserved Patient Populations: Methodological Considerations for Online Focus Group Discussions

2017 ◽  
Vol 28 (10) ◽  
pp. 1658-1673 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sari L. Reisner ◽  
Renee K. Randazzo ◽  
Jaclyn M. White Hughto ◽  
Sarah Peitzmeier ◽  
L. Zachary DuBois ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Health Care Access ◽  
Lessons Learned ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Sexual Health Care ◽  
Advantages And Disadvantages ◽  
Online Focus Groups ◽  
Methodological Considerations

Online focus group discussions provide an anonymous environment to assess sensitive, health-related experiences that may be difficult to discuss utilizing traditional face-to-face modalities, particularly for marginalized populations such as female-to-male trans masculine (TM) transgender individuals. This article reviews the history, advantages, and disadvantages of online focus groups, with an emphasis for research about sensitive issues with stigmatized, rare, and/or geographically dispersed patient populations. The article then evaluates the success of online focus group discussions as a case study using data from four asynchronous online focus groups conducted between September 2015 and February 2016 that explored topics related to sexual health care access with U.S. TM adults ( N = 29). The rationale for selecting an asynchronous online methodology is described along with the unique methodological considerations that emerged in developing the study protocol. We conclude by sharing lessons learned, including innovations for maximizing participant engagement and comfort to elicit rich qualitative data.

Adapting Tactical Military Structures to the Current and Future Operational Environments

2020 ◽  
Vol 26 (1) ◽  
pp. 157-162
Author(s):  
Paul Tudorache ◽  
Lucian Ispas
Keyword(s):  
Best Practices ◽  
Lessons Learned ◽  
Organizational Adaptation ◽  
Common Denominator ◽  
Military Operations ◽  
The Future ◽  
Military Units

AbstractUsing the lessons learned from recent military operations such as Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR) from Syria and Iraq, we proposed to investigate the need for tactical military units to adapt operationally to grapple with the most common requirements specific to current operational environments, but also for those that can be foreseen in the future. In this regard, by identifying the best practices in the field that can be met at the level of some important armies, such as USA and UK, we will try to determine a common denominator of most important principles whose application may facilitate both operational and organizational adaptation necessary for tactical military units to perform missions and tasks in the most unknown future operational environments.

59. General medicine residents' perception of the mini-CEXs

2007 ◽  
Vol 30 (4) ◽  
pp. 61
Author(s):  
S. Malhotra ◽  
R. Hatala ◽  
C.-A. Courneya
Keyword(s):  
Internal Medicine ◽  
Medical Education ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Qualitative Study ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
General Medicine ◽  
Clinical History ◽  
Phenomenological Approach ◽  
Medical Teacher ◽  
The Impact

The mini-CEX is a 30 minute observed clinical encounter. It can be done in the outpatient, inpatient or emergency room setting. It strives to look at several parameters including a clinical history, physical, professionalism and overall clinical competence. Trainees are rated using a 9-point scoring system: 1-3 unsatisfactory, 4-6 satisfactory and 7-9 superior. Eight months after the introduction of the mini-CEX to the core University of British Columbia Internal Medicine Residents, a one hour semi-structured focus group for residents in each of the three years took place. The focus groups were conducted by an independent moderator, audio-recorded and transcribed. Using a phenomenological approach the comments made by the focus groups participants were read independently by three authors, organized into major themes. In doing so, several intriguing common patterns were revealed on how General Medicine Residents perceive their experience in completing a mini-CEX. The themes include Education, Assessment and Preparation for the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons Internal Medicine exam. Resident learners perceived that the mini-CEX process provided insight into their clinical strengths and weaknesses. Focus group participants favored that the mini-CEX experience will benefit them in preparation, and successful completion of their licensing exam. Daelmans HE, Overmeer RM, van der Hem-Stockroos HH, Scherpbier AJ, Stehouwer CD, van der Vleuten CP. In-training assessment: qualitative study of effects on supervision and feedback in an undergraduate clinical rotation. Medical Education 2006; 40(1):51-8. De Lima AA, Henquin R, Thierer J, Paulin J, Lamari S, Belcastro F, Van der Vleuten CPM. A qualitative study of the impact on learning of the mini clinical evaluation exercise in postgraduate training. Medical Teacher January 2005; 27(1):46-52. DiCicco-Bloom B, Crabtree BF. The Qualitative Research Interview. Medical Education 2006; 40:314-32.

scholarly journals Blending Indigenous Sharing Circle and Western Focus Group Methodologies for the Study of Indigenous Children’s Health: A Systematic Review

2021 ◽  
Vol 20 ◽  
pp. 160940692110151
Author(s):  
Sarah C. Hunt ◽  
Nancy L. Young
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Qualitative Content Analysis ◽  
Children's Health ◽  
Children’S Health ◽  
Community Advisory Board ◽  
Original Research ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Sharing Circles

The primary objective of this systematic review was to investigate how Western focus groups and Indigenous sharing circles have been blended for the study of Indigenous children’s health. The secondary objective of this study was to propose recommendations for adapting focus groups to include elements of sharing circles. This systematic review was conducted using a systematic search of original research articles published between 2009 and 2020 that (a) focused on North American Indigenous children’s health and (b) used group-based qualitative methods including focus groups and sharing circles. Each of the articles was screened for relevance and quality. The methods sections were reviewed, subjected to qualitative content analysis, and codes were analyzed to identify common themes and synthesize results. We identified 29 articles, most of which followed a community-based participatory research approach. In these publications, most included a community advisory board, ethics approval was obtained, and in some cases, community members were included as research assistants. There was evidence that sharing circles and focus group methods had been blended in the recent Indigenous children’s health literature. This was particularly apparent in the authors’ approaches to recruitment, location, facilitation techniques, question format and reimbursement. Several groups have published results that describe approaches that successfully incorporated aspects of Indigenous sharing circles into Western focus groups, thus establishing a research method that is culturally safe and appropriate for the study of Indigenous children’s health.

Participatory development of the food literacy intervention “GUSTO” for older adults in Germany

2020 ◽  
Vol 30 (Supplement_5) ◽  
Author(s):  
F Zastrow ◽  
K Neher ◽  
H Hassel
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Everyday Life ◽  
Healthy Aging ◽  
Participatory Approach ◽  
Target Group ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Food Literacy

Abstract Background Healthy aging is one of the major challenges currently faced by an aging population. Food literacy (FL) refers to the ability to apply knowledge and practical skills regarding healthy and sustainable nutrition into everyday life. The project “GUSTO” is sponsored by the Bavarian State Ministry of Health and Care and aims to contribute to enjoyable aging by developing the nutritional skills of people aged 65 and over. This community-based program comprises independent working groups of older adults guided by peer moderators. The FL intervention is developed in cooperation with the target group. Methods The nutritional situation of older adults was first established through a literature research. The results of this research were compared to the “self-perceived food literacy scale” by Poelman et al. (2018) and the “nutritional framework for literacy courses” by Johannsen et al. (2019). The resulting data provided a basis for focus group discussions carried out in six municipalities, supported by local practice partners. In six guided focus group discussions, a number of recurring themes were identified and summarized. Results The focus groups consisted of a total of 44 people between 62 and 88 years of age (average age: 73.1 ± 6.1 years). 22.7 % were men. The group discussions revealed resources used and barriers encountered in terms of FL and interests of older adults. It was evident that, due to the high density of information available, the participants found it difficult to identify reliable information and to implement it in their everyday life. At the request of the focus groups, topics such as the best before date and the use of food waste were added to the intervention. Conclusions Older adults find it challenging to identify reliable nutritional information and implement it in their everyday life. With the help of the participatory approach outlined in this study, target group-related issues can be identified and taken into account in the intervention. Key messages Older adults can be involved in the development of an FL intervention. A participatory approach allows target group-related issues and specific needs to be taken into account in the intervention.

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