ERIC Number: ED667621
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2022
Pages: N/A
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 978-1-5296-0182-4
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: 2022-03-01
Advantages of and Considerations for Conducting Online Focus Groups. Sage Research Methods: Doing Research Online
Stephanie Anne Shelton; April M. Jones
Sage Research Methods Cases
This case study explores the advantages and limitations of conducting focus groups online. Though virtual focus groups have long been positioned as supplemental or inferior alternatives to in-person focus groups, this case study emphasizes the flexibility, accessibility, and possibility of conducting focus groups virtually. Providing examples from virtual focus groups conducted during a qualitative research course, this case study first discusses positive aspects of online focus groups, such as easy incorporation of complementary technology and participation access for a diversity of participants. The case study then explores the challenges and limitations of virtual focus groups, including the facilitators' technological knowledge and participants' internet reliability. This case study ends by acknowledging that there are a range of logistical concerns that will inevitably shape online focus groups, including facilitators' and participants' familiarity with online platforms and dependability of technology and internet access. However, despite these challenges, there are a range of advantages, such as accommodating participants' unique needs, offering multiple modes of participation, and providing reasonably equitable access to any media used in the interactions. Ultimately, the authors argue that like any research method, moving focus groups online does not make them inherently better or worse; it does, however, require some new considerations and strategies for implementation, which offer substantial opportunities for focus group research.
Descriptors: Research Methodology, Computer Mediated Communication, Electronic Learning, Case Studies, Barriers, Access to Internet, Technology Integration, Technology Uses in Education, Familiarity, Focus Groups
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Publication Type: Books; Non-Print Media; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A