Focus Groups | North American Association for Environmental Education

Focus Groups

Outcome

General Methods or Ways to Create Your Own Method

Method

Focus groups

Citation

Ernst, J. A., Monroe, M. C., & Simmons, B. (2009). Evaluating Your Environmental Education Programs: A Workbook for Practitioners. Washington, D.C: North American Association for Environmental Education.

File

EvaluatingYourEEPrograms_FocusGroups.pdf

Focus groups are used to explore a topic in depth, though with a small group as opposed to one-on-one interviews. This allows for group discussion, more reactions, and a way to explore common complaints or misunderstandings. This method can also be time intensive, though they can be another great way to get to know your participants and community. When creating your focus group protocol or guide, give careful consideration to how cultural relevance is included. The PDF linked above provides more guidance on creating and implementing your own focus groups.