Spotlight on focus groups

Article Figures & Data

Table 1

Key characteristics of focus groups

CHARACTERISTIC	CRITERIA
Size	Usually 7–10 persons per group Each group is a single unit 2–4 units are often needed
Participants	Need not be randomized Can be homogenous, heterogeneous, or both, depending on the study topic
Group moderator	Trained facilitator Impartial to the study
Setting	Interactive
Data collection	Audiotape and videotape Field notes
Data entry	All communications transcribed verbatim
Data analysis	Should involve a collaborator with qualitative research background