Focus Group Discussions: Three Examples from Family and Consumer Science Research

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to demonstrate the usefulness of focus group discussions (FGDs) in family and consumer sciences research. First, we briefly describe theFGDmethodology in terms of question development, group composition and recruitment, interview protocol and logistics, and data analysis. Then, we show how we applied that methodology in three specific examples from our work with family and consumer sciences research projects. Our examples include (a) the consumer behavior of working female adolescents, (b) the work readiness of adult males with low educational attainment, and (c) the definition of parental involvement by mothers with young children.

The Double-Edged Prospects of Peer-to-Peer Cooperative Learning in Ethiopian Secondary Schools

“…There were three stages that we have tracked down to accomplish the FGD: questions development, grouping procedures (composition, sample selection criteria, and discussion protocol), and data analysis techniques. Along with the suggestions of Garrison et al (1999) to prepare a tool for conducting FGD, we have developed questions considering (a) the sequencing of questions from general to specific, (b) using open-ended questions instead of dichotomous questions, and (c) focusing the participants’ specific personal experiences. The first entry points were questions that gave participants an opportunity to introduce themselves and personal biographies.…”

Education Fever: Exploring Private Education Consumption Motivations Among Korean Parents of Preschool Children

“…A pool of questions was developed following Garrison et al. 's () focus group question development. Sample questions included “ Why did you choose private education programs?…”

“…The study focused on preschool because the Korean private education market has expanded recently to target preschool children (Shin, 2014), yet this segment has received limited attention in research as compared to school-age students. In addition, previous studies have found that parental involvement is greater for younger children's education than that for older children (Garrison et al, 1999). Mothers were the focus of the sample because they are the primary decision makers when it comes to children's education within Korean culture (Kim, 2008).…”

“…Before starting the discussion, a consent form approved by IRB was provided and signed by participants. A pool of questions was developed following Garrison et al's (1999) focus group question development. Sample questions included "Why did you choose private education programs?…”

The Experiences of West Virginians Participating in Extension-Sponsored Educational Programming in Ireland: A Narrative Analysis

“…While this focuses more on the narrative aspect than the research, it shows the various groups who worked together to tell these stories. Another example is a focus group study on female high school employed students and was a mutual effort between the Louisiana State University Extension Service and their Schools of Human Ecology and Forestry (Garrison et al, 1999). This project appears to be a true collaboration where faculty members from both colleges worked together on the study.…”