ABSTRACT
Unlike in quantitative research, in which the data collection instrument is rigidly and specifically proscribed, in focus groups, the data collection instrument for focus groups is a guide or outline of topics that might be discussed and questions that might be asked, in the order they might potentially be discussed or asked. The facilitation guide for the group is always based first on the study objectives, and second on the list of desired information. The information to be gathered is frequently worded as questions, but these rarely are the actual questions to be asked directly of participants; these are typically more like topical areas for discussion. The moderation or facilitation guide is where focus groups cross the line between naturalistic research and laboratory research. You’re letting the people talk naturally, but you’re guiding their conversation. How guided the group is depends on what study objectives or research questions. Sometimes you have self-directed groups in which the researcher puts a notecard with one or more questions and leaves the room to let the participants talk among themselves (Long et al., 2013). In other groups, the guide is detailed and didactic and the facilitator follows the questions more closely. Most groups are like the ones we’re
doing for CHPN-they have an outline of topics and a suggested order, but the facilitator lets the group discussion guide where to go when. Sometimes all the listed questions are asked, and other times one question will yield multiple pieces of information without having to specifically ask all the questions.
