Focus groups as research method

Aalborg University, Doctoral School in Medicine, Biomedical Science and Technology

The objective of the course is to introduce participants to how focus groups can be used as research method within healthcare research.

Focus groups is a research method where data are generated through group interactions based on a selected topic. The specific characteristic of focus groups is their explicit use of group interaction to produce data and insights that would be less accessible without the interaction that plays out in a group.

The course will include a mix of presentations, group reflections, exercises, and individual work related to the themes:

• Introduction to focus groups as research method (historical, philosophical, and methodological assumptions)
• Designing a focus group study (theoretical, methodological, and practical considerations)
• Conducting a focus group (incl. practical exercises)
• Analyzing data from focus groups (analyzing content and interaction)
• Reporting findings from a focus group study

The course will strengthen participants’ knowledge base, reflection, and scientific argumentation for the use of focus groups in healthcare research.

For additional information, updates, and registration, please refer to AAU PhDMoodle via the link provided on the right side of this page.

Back