This week’s session centred on the characteristics focus group discussions, when it is used and the skills needed by the interviewer during informal discussions. Khan & Manderson (1992) described focus group discussions as a qualitative method in which the facilitator or moderator uses a pre-tested line of questioning to stimulate discussion among the participants on the subject of inquiry. The aim is to understand perceptions and beliefs of a selected population to gain understanding of a particular issue from the perspective of the group 's participants. It was also noted that, focus groups are used as a primary data collection method for some topics (for example, sexual behaviour) that cannot be easily studied through quantitative methods or through individual interviews (Khan & Manderson 1992).
Apart from the characteristics and advantages, the session also discussed the disadvantages of the concept. The method has also been criticised for its inability to elicit as rich and in-depth information on this sensitive topic as other data collection methods (Zuselo, Curran & Zaserman 2012). Kitzinger (1994) suggested that focus group discussion might censure deviation from group standards inhibiting open discussion and privacy of participants.
In relation to the companion article, Kaljee & Beardsley (1992) did not specifically indicate the use …show more content…
These qualitative research studies highlight the need for qualitative research methodology especially to depict the exact experiences of participants. For instance, Charmaz (1999) discusses suffering in her article linking it to real life experiences of women suffering from chronic diseases. Their sufferings were vividly presented in detail that one could picture or imagine how they were
Apart from the characteristics and advantages, the session also discussed the disadvantages of the concept. The method has also been criticised for its inability to elicit as rich and in-depth information on this sensitive topic as other data collection methods (Zuselo, Curran & Zaserman 2012). Kitzinger (1994) suggested that focus group discussion might censure deviation from group standards inhibiting open discussion and privacy of participants.
In relation to the companion article, Kaljee & Beardsley (1992) did not specifically indicate the use …show more content…
These qualitative research studies highlight the need for qualitative research methodology especially to depict the exact experiences of participants. For instance, Charmaz (1999) discusses suffering in her article linking it to real life experiences of women suffering from chronic diseases. Their sufferings were vividly presented in detail that one could picture or imagine how they were