Key characteristics of focus groups
Usually 7–10 persons per group
Each group is a single unit
2–4 units are often needed
Need not be randomized
Can be homogenous, heterogeneous, or both, depending on the study topic
Trained facilitator
Impartial to the study
Interactive
Audiotape and videotape
Field notes
All communications transcribed verbatim
Should involve a collaborator with qualitative research background