Focus group research method: A sketch note and guidelines for organizing focus group

Focus group research is a qualitative methodology where a trained moderator guides a interactive, semi-structured discussion among 6–10 purposefully selected participants. Postgraduate researchers leverage this approach to analyze group dynamics, uncover shared beliefs, and explore the complex "why" behind human attitudes through participant interaction rather than isolated individual responses. But for in-house researches, action researches and classroom researches a mini-focus of 3-4 professional suffices as triangular internal validation. 

Guidelines

For Focus Group Studies, once the topic and appropriate 5 members identified and their bio-notes have been collected to start the introduction, the moderator must follow the following guidelines.   

The common pattern for the group discussion includes: (1) Welcome and introduction of members (2) Overview of the topic to set the tone of discussion (3) Ground rules for open and thoughtful environment, and (4) First question to begin the discussion.

In the ground rules, tell the members, "There are no right or wrong answers but only differing points of view. It is requested that one person speaks at a time and rest listen respectfully as views are being shared."

The moderator should take notes throughout the discussion and Operate recording equipment, if available. He or she should not participate in the discussion.