You also have to determine how many people you would like to take part in the group — too large of a group can inhibit conversation, but so can too small of a group.
If properly conducted, a focus group can be a very effective way to gather information about learner achievement or other program-based results.
Sometimes it is easier for people to participate in a group rather than a one-on-one survey because they may feel less intimidated among friends. Feedback from focus groups can also be richer as people get to hear the ideas of others and share their own input.
The first thing to do when setting up a focus group is to identify its purpose. In this case, that would be to gather information about a particular result that you are evaluating.
Effective facilitation of a focus group is key. As the facilitator, you are there to ask the key questions. However, be sure not to direct participants, offer your own opinions, or influence the group’s comments. You are there to stimulate discussion, not direct it. So try to listen as much as possible and only offer comments that will stimulate discussion or make people feel comfortable in sharing their opinions.
It will also be important to try not to let one or two people dominate the focus group and to try to bring in quiet participants. Also validate that all comments are welcome: there are no wrong answers.
Be sure to set a welcoming and comfortable environment for participants. If possible, serve snacks! And find a quiet, private location where you won’t be interrupted.
You also need to think about who you are going to invite to participate in the focus group. For example, if you are collecting data about enhanced writing skills, you would not invite learners who did not have improving their writing skills as a goal because they probably are not going to be able to provide you with very relevant information and feedback. Perhaps you would also conduct a separate focus group on this same topic with tutors or instructors as well.
You also have to determine how many people you would like to take part in the group — too large of a group can inhibit conversation, but so can too small of a group! Five to nine is generally a good number.
When you are thinking about what questions to ask in your focus group, remember to keep them focused on the reason you are holding the group. Be sure to ask yourself: What information do we need from participants? What information can we get from a focus group that we cannot get from other sources? What questions can we ask to get the information we need?