Focus Groups: A Practical Guide for Applied Research

Focus Groups: A Practical Guide for Applied Research

1-1-1989 | Janet Mancini Billson
The article reviews Richard A. Krueger's book "Focus Groups: A Practical Guide for Applied Research." The focus group method, which has gained popularity in both public and private sectors, is a qualitative research technique used to gather in-depth information from small groups of participants. Krueger emphasizes the method's utility in understanding subjective worlds, such as perceived needs and interests, and its applications in various settings, including product testing, program evaluation, and marketing strategy development. The book provides detailed guidance on conducting focus groups, from creating research questions to moderating sessions and reporting data. However, the review notes that the book's focus on non-profit agencies and agricultural settings may limit its applicability in the private sector. Additionally, the author's emphasis on methodological purity and the use of structured questioning routes is questioned, suggesting that more flexibility and adaptability are often necessary in practical settings. Despite these limitations, the book is praised for its practical value and the quality of its bibliography. The review concludes by noting the potential for focus groups to become a recognized and professionalized sociological methodology.The article reviews Richard A. Krueger's book "Focus Groups: A Practical Guide for Applied Research." The focus group method, which has gained popularity in both public and private sectors, is a qualitative research technique used to gather in-depth information from small groups of participants. Krueger emphasizes the method's utility in understanding subjective worlds, such as perceived needs and interests, and its applications in various settings, including product testing, program evaluation, and marketing strategy development. The book provides detailed guidance on conducting focus groups, from creating research questions to moderating sessions and reporting data. However, the review notes that the book's focus on non-profit agencies and agricultural settings may limit its applicability in the private sector. Additionally, the author's emphasis on methodological purity and the use of structured questioning routes is questioned, suggesting that more flexibility and adaptability are often necessary in practical settings. Despite these limitations, the book is praised for its practical value and the quality of its bibliography. The review concludes by noting the potential for focus groups to become a recognized and professionalized sociological methodology.
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[slides and audio] Focus Groups%3A A Practical Guide for Applied Research