Microsoft Word research method fm doc

Physical arrangements:
Communication and interaction during the FGD should be 
encouraged in every possible way. Arrange the chairs in a circle. Make sure the area will be 
quiet, adequately lighted, etc., and that there will be no disturbances. 
Preparation of a discussion guide
: There should be a written list of topics to be covered. 
It can be formulated as a series of open-ended questions. 
During the discussion
: One of the members of the research team should act as a 
"facilitator" for the focus group. One should serve as "recorder." 
Functions of the facilitator: 
• Introduce the session 
• Encourage 
discussion 
• Encourage 
involvement 
• Listen carefully and move the discussion from topic to topic. Subtly control the time 
allocated to various topics so as to maintain interest.
• Take time at the end of the meeting to summarize, check for agreement and thank the 
participants. 
In general, the facilitator should not act as an expert on the topic. His or her being there is to 
stimulate and support discussion. 
Report writing in focus group discussions:
Start with a description of the selection and 
composition of the groups of participants and a commentary on the group process, so the 
reader can assess the validity of the reported findings. 
Present your findings, following your list of topics and guided by the objective(s) of your FGD. 
Include questions whenever possible, particularly for key statements.
The method of data collection chosen for a study should be appropriate for the type of 
information required. Whether the required information is quantitative or qualitative in nature 
is the major consideration. It would be time wasting to use unstructured interviews for 

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Research methodology 
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essentially quantitative studies where information could be more efficiently collected through 
structured interviews or questionnaires. Conversely, self completed questionnaires are 
generally unsuited to qualitative research: even when there is space for comments or for 
respondents to express ideas the space is limited and requires respondents to have skills in 
articulation and literacy.
Observation
Not all qualitative data collection approaches require direct interaction with people. It is a 
technique that can be used when data collected through other means can be of limited value 
or is difficult to validate. For example, in interviews participants may be asked about how they 
behave in certain situations but there is no guarantee that they actually do what they say they 
do. Observing them in those situations is more reliable: it is possible to see how they actually 
behave. Observation can also serve as a technique for verifying or nullifying information 
provided in face to face encounters.
In some research observation of people is not required but observation of the environment. 
This can provide valuable background information about the environment where a research 
project is being undertaken. For example, an action research project involving an institution 
may be enhanced by some description of the physical features of the building.