This paper discusses preliminary results of a project investigating the phenomenon of mastery motivation with three significant groups: provider, family, and extremely premature infant. Three focus groups to determine the state of early intervention's knowledge and utilization of mastery motivation were conducted in three states. A repeated…

Customer focus groups at Lakeshore Technical College, Wisconsin, were hindered by inadequate levels of participation. A study explored the effectiveness of using network meeting management software to increase focus group participation and the number of ideas generated as well as reduce the amount of time spent on conducting the focus group…

A study explored whether the intake process met the needs of employed adults seeking upgrade training market segment at Lakeshore Technical College, Wisconsin. Study procedures included the following: a literature review, criteria identification, drawing a sample of students, organization and conducting of focus groups and collecting data, and…

This study used the case study method and focus group interviews to examine: (1) which of the economic impacts of a small liberal arts college on its community are important; (2) whether economic impact can be estimated economic impact studies; and (3) whether such studies influence public opinion about the college's economic impact. Two focus…

Findings in this report summarize the first phase of a larger, multi-year study that is combining qualitative and quantitative methods to outline a conceptual framework to guide future demographic/fertility research, pregnancy prevention programs and policies. Twelve focus groups--involving a multiculturally representative group of male and female…

A study investigated the experiences and perceptions of incoming, current, and former students with disabilities regarding access to and participation in postsecondary programs, educational supports available and effective for students with disabilities, and how well postsecondary experiences prepare students with disabilities for employment. Ten…

The Secondary Education program at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) completed its second year of partnerships with local public secondary schools. During the 2003-04 school year, SIUE partnered with two schools. Prior to the second year of the partnerships, data regarding student perceptions of their experiences during the…

This presentation discusses the outcomes of a project that investigated the computer, information, and learning and adaptive technology needs and concerns of Canadian postsecondary students with disabilities. A series of four focus groups involving 33 students with disabilities and 25 service providers was held. The study found: (1) colleges have…

The Entertainment Studies section of the proceedings contains the following 6 selected papers: "Mass Media Use and Teen Sexuality: Findings from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health" (Myra Gregory Knight); "Focus Group Analysis: Can It Help Explain Present Audience Discontent with Broadcast Network Television?"…

A Faculty of Education dramatically restructured its preservice teacher education program by putting experience first through introducing an extended fall-term practicum of 14 weeks. Focus group interviews were conducted with elementary and secondary teachers and administrators over a 3-year period, prior to and twice during the controversial…

Describes a market-driven approach to international business curriculum development used in creation of a curriculum for a new school of international business. The school's leadership sought input from over 100 chief executives to determine how to align the curriculum with international business needs, and conducted structured focus groups and a…

Describes a study conducted of adult distance learners involved in a graduate special education teacher education program delivered via televised instruction. Focus group methodologies and data analysis found instructor skills, interaction, group dynamics, and site facilitators to be critical elements in effective televised instruction. Discusses…

Describes a South Carolina middle school's efforts to improve student behavior and decrease suspension rates by using a focus-group approach with underachieving seventh graders with behavior problems. Students participated in daily focus-group experiences in which they learned strategies for changing their behavior and improving study skills.…

A study examined an adventure education program's impact on college students' learning and overall university experience. Focus groups conducted with 14 college freshmen in a learning community program indicated that the adventure education program enhanced connections between students, faculty, and the university; promoted experiential learning…

Five focus groups were conducted with 38 family participants receiving early intervention services in Virginia. Participants expressed their perspectives on how cost and ability to pay affects the family and their decisions on services. Implications for early intervention policy and practice on the local, state, and federal level and future…