You are here

Focus Group Methodology
Share
Share

Focus Group Methodology
Principle and Practice


Other Titles in:
Focus Group Research

March 2011 | 224 pages | SAGE Publications Ltd
Focus Group Methodology is an introductory text which leads readers through the entire process of designing a focus group study, from conducting interviews to analysing data and presenting the findings. It also includes discussions on cross-cultural and virtual focus group.

Liamputtong presents clear, practical advice in simple terms which will be appropriate for undergraduate and postgraduate students who are undertaking research, making this an ideal starter text for anyone new to focus group research.

Like her previous book, Researching the Vulnerable, Liamputtong's latest work pays close attention to research ethics and will also be of great interest to researchers who are working with different social groups - such as women, men, older people, children and ethnic groups - and anybody who is engaging in cross-cultural research.

Illustrated with case studies and examples throughout, this is a perfect introduction to focus group methods for students and new researchers alike.

 
Focus Group Methodology: Introduction and History
 
Focus Group Methodology: Theories and Ethics
 
Focus Group Methodology and Principles
 
Focus Group Methodology and Practical Considerations
 
Conducting Focus Groups and Practicalities
 
The Use of Focus Group Methodology in the Health and Social Sciences
 
Focus Group Methodology and Sensitive Topics and Vulnerable Groups
 
Focus Group Methodology in Cross-Cultural Research
 
Virtual Focus Groups
 
Managing and Making Sense of Focus Group Data
 
In Conclusion

 

'This lucidly written book will appeal to readers ranging from undergraduate students to seasoned academics in the field of social science research. Liamputtong has succinctly provided valuable insights into conducting focus group discussions, not merely as a means of quick data collection but rather as an instrument that can create knowledge for social transformation. In essence, focus group discussions bear consonance with the subtle aims of social science to generate collective consciousness and deepen the understanding of structural contexts of oppression and social change'

Keerty Nakray
LSE Review of Books

This is a very useful book for research students and researchers introducing them to focus groups as a research method. It clearly outlines the main issues of researching with this method and makes the information accessible by simply concluding each chapter and suggesting tutorial activities to help deepen understanding. It is recommended reading for anyone who is interested in using this method which is growing in popularity.

Dr Alaster Douglas
School of Education, Roehampton University
drupal

I particularly liked the chapters on virtual focus groups and focus group methodology in cross cultural research as these are particularly relevant to our students.Overall the book has a good balance of theoretical underpinnings and a practical approach to focus group research for those students embarking on this research approach.

Dr Desiree Tait
School of human and health Sciences, University of Wales, Swansea
drupal

Excellent resource for any student / researcher who is considering using focus groups as a means of data collection. Comprehensive and easy to understand. Definitely will add it to our reading list for Qualitative Research Methods.

Dr Jayne Marshall
Academic Div of Midwifery, Nottingham University - City Hospital
drupal

I thought this was a great introductory text for students considering focus group method for their dissertations.

Dr Karen Spilsbury
Health Sciences, York University
drupal

A good book offering tutorial exercises so that even the most novice of focus group researchers can become more advanced and familiar with this methodology.

Dr Noora Kokkarinen
School of the Built Environment, Liverpool John Moores University
drupal

Excellent book for any student who wants to use focus groups to collect data.

Dr Ronell Leech
Health , University of Pretoria
drupal

This text provides detailed instructions on focus group methodology. It is easy to read and maintains the reader's interest. Of particular use for my students was the information on running virtual focus groups.

Dr Theresa Smith
Occupational Therapy Dept, Towson University
drupal

This book should be on the shelves for every postgradaute student, academic and professional. This book is eminently addresses the underlying issues in focus group methodology.
Wilson Ozuem, PhD

Dr WILSON OZUEM
Business Administration , American Intercontinental University, London
drupal

A well thought out approach to the subject matter. I found the concepts and application to practice mirrored each other well. I would recomend to collegues.

Miss Carmel Parker
Laboratory medine, central manchester university hospitals
drupal

Sample Materials & Chapters

Chapter 1


For instructors

Select a Purchasing Option

Sage Research Methods is a research methods tool created to help researchers, faculty and students with their research projects. Sage Research Methods links over 175,000 pages of Sage’s renowned book, journal and reference content with truly advanced search and discovery tools. Researchers can explore methods concepts to help them design research projects, understand particular methods or identify a new method, conduct their research, and write up their findings. Since Sage Research Methods focuses on methodology rather than disciplines, it can be used across the social sciences, health sciences, and more.

With Sage Research Methods, researchers can explore their chosen method across the depth and breadth of content, expanding or refining their search as needed; read online, print, or email full-text content; utilize suggested related methods and links to related authors from Sage Research Methods' robust library and unique features; and even share their own collections of content through Methods Lists. Sage Research Methods contains content from over 720 books, dictionaries, encyclopedias, and handbooks, the entire “Little Green Book,” and "Little Blue Book” series, two Major Works collating a selection of journal articles, and specially commissioned videos.

EC Rep

International Associates Auditing & Certification Limited
The Black Church, St Mary's Place,
Dublin 7, D07 P4AX Ireland
Sage's GPSR statement