NEW COMMUNITIES PROJECT facilitating focus groups

NEW COMMUNITIES PROJECT: 

NEW COMMUNITIES PROJECT Facilitating focus groups

Overview: 

Overview Plan for 1 to 11/2 Hours per session Set an agenda, state it and try to stick to it Use the following ground rules Keep focussed on the topic/issue Maintain momentum Get closure Try to ensure even participation Keep notes throughout the session

The role of the moderator: 

The role of the moderator Facilitating free flowing, relevant discussion Giving people time to speak Keeping the discussion on track without inhibiting the flow of discussion and ideas. Ensuring that all participants are involved Summarise and provide closure for each topic/question Under no circumstances should the facilitator engage in the debate or explain or evaluate issues that have arisen in the focus group.

Starting it rolling: 

Starting it rolling Make sure everyone is comfortable and seated around the table before starting Make sure you have every participant’s personal details (e.g. Name, age, sex) Make sure everyone has their name tag on Introduce yourself (if necessary) and welcome participants Explain the means for recording the session. Run through the agenda – Consider the following items: review of goal of the meeting, review of ground rules questions and answers, wrap up.

Keeping it moving: 

Keeping it moving Try to keep everyone on topic Don’t allow any one participant to dominate Make sure everyone has the opportunity to contribute before moving on Use probes to generate more information When you think you’ve got all you’re going to get, summarise the group’s opinions and move on Don’t worry if you don’t achieve perfect consensus on every topic/question

Hitting the wall: 

Hitting the wall Don’t be afraid to use probes or ask for clarification Don’t be afraid to challenge attitudes and opinions Encourage group members to think about attitudes and opinions previously expressed

Providing closure: 

Providing closure Summarise the key points from your notes and ask if anyone has anything further to add Briefly go over points of agreement and debate Tell members that they will receive a copy of the report generated from their answers Thank them for coming, Adjourn the meeting.

Finishing off: 

Finishing off Verify if the tape recorder worked throughout the session. Make any notes on your written notes Fill out any notes that don't make sense Write down any observations made during the session. What was the nature of participation in the group? Were there any surprises during the session? What were your own feelings about the information gained?