Videotaped Focus Groups: Transforming a Therapeutic Strategy Into a Research Tool

Abstract

Focus groups have become a popular method of collecting data for research projects. The addition of using a videotaped approach has broad implications for researchers, as it allows constant replay of the session. Although on the surface this approach seems straightforward and easy to use, the authors caution that this is not an approach for the novice. Investigators planning to use a focus group method must be well versed in group process. There is an unpredictable nature to the focus group process, and researchers need to prepare for the inevitable mishaps that lead to lost opportunities for data collection.

What constitutes the patient experience of children? Findings from the photo elicitation and the video diary study

“…48,51,52 One reason for this may be that video diaries offer the possibility of investigating both verbal and nonverbal data. 53 Video diary clips convey the thoughts, feelings and actions of the participant over a longer period, 51,52 and these clips can be watched several times. 53,54 Video diaries, however, have been criticized as not empowering or spontaneous to all participants, since talking to the video camera may feel uncomfortable 54 or producing visual data may feel like a burden 55 to some participants.…”

“…53 Video diary clips convey the thoughts, feelings and actions of the participant over a longer period, 51,52 and these clips can be watched several times. 53,54 Video diaries, however, have been criticized as not empowering or spontaneous to all participants, since talking to the video camera may feel uncomfortable 54 or producing visual data may feel like a burden 55 to some participants. One limitation of the video diary method is the inability to ask the participant instant follow-up questions.…”

Perceptions Community Residents Have about Partner Institutions and Clinical Research

“…Demographic information was collected from the “Perceptions of Participation in Clinical Research” survey instrument and included age, ethnicity, gender, education, employment, annual household income, marital status, and health status. In addition to the standard audio recording used in most focus groups, all sessions were videotaped for accuracy and to allow review of non‐verbal communications . Prior to conducting the focus group discussions; the investigative team articulated the questioning route.…”

Focus Groups: Powerful Adjuncts for Program Evaluation

“…Group cohesiveness can be powerful in uncovering ideas that might not surface from individual interviews. In addition, those using focus groups as a strategy must be familiar with group process and be skilled facilitators (Joseph, Griffin, & Sullivan, 2000).…”