Focus groups with school staff to explore asset-building innovativeness

To assist with interpretations of findings from a survey assessing the diffusion of an asset-building innovation in 3 school districts.

Eight focus groups were conducted with 69 school administrators, teachers, and guidance counselors in 3 school districts. Three reviewers examined transcripts for common themes.

The themes that arose related to effective communication channels, barriers that prevent diffusion in the schools, the need for improved relationships, and addressing of students' needs.

The study illustrates the advantages of linking qualitative and quantitative methods when performing evaluations by enhancing both the validity and usefulness of findings.