ABSTRACT
This chapter will explore some of the implications for would-be ‘researchsavvy’ practitioners wanting to research within an organisation. It is not intended to be a step-by-step guide (there are many publications like that) but offers some straightforward suggestions that may help to negotiate the terrain of qualitative enquiry, and in particular the use of focus groups. The chapter will be especially relevant to those intending to undertake a research project at work in a counselling setting, mental health or education department, as well as for those teaching in a college or on a training course; however, the ideas discussed are also applicable in other organisational settings. The underpinning for the chapter and the example used to illustrate various points come from my own qualitative research enquiry undertaken in a further education (FE) college where counsellors are trained.
