Extension Evaluation Matters: 2nd Edition

Conducting the Focus Group Session

There are three key phases for the focus group interview:

 Setting the stage for discussion (i.e. purpose and ground rules)

Conducting the discussion

Tying up loose ends

You can learn more by reading Using Focus Group Interviews for Planning or Evaluating Extension Programs, a publication from the University of Florida.

Semi-Structured Interviews

In some cases, the logistics of conducting focus groups does not make it the most feasible option. In those cases, semi-structured individual interviews are an option. Many of the tenets of focus groups remain the same but the need to manage group dynamics is not an issue.

To read more about using semi-structured interviews as an alternative, check out the resources below:

 Handbook of Practical Program Evaluation

 Robert Woods Johnson Foundation Qualitative Research Guidelines Project (website).

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