Focus Group Discussion

An FGD is an informal in-depth discussion in

which a small number of participants (6-12),
under the guidance of a moderator or
facilitator talk about topics of special
importance to a particular research issue
participants are purposively selected from a
define target population whose opinions and
ideas are relevant to the research (AIDSCAP,
FHI, 1994)
  Some Feature of FGDs
 FGD participants are purposively selected from a defined
target population whose opinion and idea are relevant to
the research.
 Usuallymore than one FGD is necessary to adequately
cover the range of participants characteristics and issues.
 Importantideas/facts brought up during the discussion are
recorded and later analyzed and used as bases for
recommendations.
 The FGD facilitator “stimulates participants to talk to
each other about a certain issue/topics” rather than to
talk to the moderator.
When and How to Use FGDs

FGDs are increasingly used by researchers,

practitioners and educator in the of needs
assessment and formative evaluation.
(Basch. 1987l; Dawson, et. Al., 1993;
Scrimshaw, et. Al., 1991. cites in AIDSCAP, FHI,
1994
  Some Uses of Focus Group Discussion (FGD)
1. Toobtain group reactions to an issue which can be compared
later with interview responses from respondents in the same
population;
2. To determine group reactions to a certain program or interview;
3. As basis for developing hypothesis for larger studies;
4. Asbasis in developing survey instruments, such as interview
schedules and questionnaires. Ideas/facts that come out during
the FGDs can be used as response categories for interview
schedule and questionnaires and in deciding the language
consistent with what is familiar/understandable to the
respondents;
5. To explain and interpret more fully results of surveys and
other quantitative studies;
6. As basis in developing testing, and refining education
message.
  The FGD Process

The step involved in conducting an FGD are describes below:

1. Determine the purpose of the FGD.
2. Develop a topic guide.
3. Recruit the FGD participants.
4. Select and strain the moderator and assistars.
5. Plan the logistics.
6. Conduct the FGDs