Having academic research is not an easy task, but it is challenging. As you get a time of one year for academic research, which demands so much effort. The time duration can vary based on the program of study. For example, you get a time span of one year for a bachelor’s and masters. On the other hand, there is a time of at least three years at PhD level. It is almost impossible to complete academic research without issues. The only thing that matter is the proper guidance for right path. You will find many directions to go, but you have to choose one which can lead you towards the right end.
Focus group discussions are considered a strategy to deal with data collection challenges of research. It signifies a sizable, demanding research effort and the climax of your academics. Before starting a research, it helps to be aware of some of the demands and challenges typical for students. It can help you better prepare to handle issues that arise throughout your academic research. This article will tell you about the ten most important things related to focus group discussions when working on academic research.
Ten things to know about Focus Group Discussions in Academic Research?
Before you work on focus group discussions, you must know what exactly it is. It is a data collection method of research which focuses on the in-depth evaluation of issue. You must understand that use of focus group discussion is made on the basis of research type. For example, the use of focus group discussion may not be effective in quantitative research type. In contrast, it plays a major role in quantitative research type. As it gives you significant insights into the problem and helps you well in analysis, it is frequently used in qualitative research. Following are the things that you must understand about focus group discussions:
Select a Research Problem
At the time of academic research,the very first step should be to work on major areas of your research. The basic requirement of research is to make a problem statement and define the path. It would be challenging to find the relevant data without making problem statements. So, you have to go for it at the very first step. Getting PhD dissertation help can also be beneficial in this regard.
Design Particular Questions
In academic research, nothing is supposed to be random, but you have to follow a systematic path that can outline the studies and shed light on the core purpose of research. You need to come up with research questions inclined toward the main topic. This step helps you find the specific research data which can provide strength to the subject.
Make Focus Group Questionnaire
The questionnaire set the base of a strategy named as focus group discussions. Design a questionnaire having the following question types:
- Probe Questions
- Follow-Up Questions
- Exit Questions
Target the Audience
Small groups of people are focused on a particular idea of research. It is not necessary that the members of focus group discussions should be part of the research. At the bachelor’s level, you are supposed to work in the form of a group. Here, you can share ideas to work on focus group discussion with the members of your research group. It is the audience which falls under the category of a focus group. On the other hand, the students of master’s and PhD have to go out of the box and critically assess which people can work well for discussion. The members of focus group are a potential audience. Now, you have to see which set of an audience should be a part of it. Based on the problem statement and objective of research, you have to decide the age group, profession and all other domains for audience. In this way, you can find the most relevant data for research.
Make Arrangements for Noting Responses
The arrangement is required for the person who will note responses. You can do it by yourself, or you can arrange another person for the same role. Go for the way, which is easy to do.
Read Samples
It is important to view samples before you start working on focus group discussions. The best way to look for those samples is by visiting the online libraries. Make sure you don’t view outdated versions, as they will not help you do good academic research. Outdated patterns of writing are always discouraged by the externals. Even if you follow an outdated version, make sure you write it in an innovative style.
Schedule Interviews
You can ask professionals for assistance in the form of guidance. So, no need to be a bookworm and make things complicated to do. The samples and guidance can also help you in deciding the way to schedule interviews. Highlight the frequently used technique to schedule interviews and then go for it.
Rules for Focus Group Discussions
- The boundaries for controversial discussion should be decided.
- The privacy of the respondent should be on priority.
- Do not ask irrelevant questions.
- Ask the same questions from all participants.
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Ask Questions from Potential Audience
When asking questions, you must note the behavioural responses in the form of non-verbal communication. Also, follow the chronological order and address the research purpose clearly. The focus group discussions should make sense to get the best and most authentic information from participants.
Work on Techniques for Focus Group Discussions
Use the techniques mentioned below:
- Remain unbiased
- Make shy participants comfortable
- Target potential participants
- Summarise the verbal and non-verbal communication
- Make productive direction of focus group discussions
Final Thoughts
Undoubtedly, focus group discussions are uphill task, but the above-mentioned points can help you make it easy. Focus group discussions are the interviews in which you have to ask particular questions to the targeted audience. The purpose of asking questions is to collect responses from the audience and evaluate them for making effective decisions.