Feasibility of Virtual Focus Groups in Program Impact Evaluation.

Area of Science:

• Qualitative Research Methods
• Health Services Research
• Organizational Psychology

Background:

• Focus groups are a common qualitative data collection method.
• Adapting traditional methods for virtual environments is crucial for modern research.
• Evaluating organizational interventions requires robust qualitative data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To adapt and evaluate a focus group protocol for virtual delivery via video conferencing.
• To assess the feasibility and effectiveness of virtual focus groups for intervention impact evaluation.
• To explore participant interaction and comfort in a virtual focus group setting.

Main Methods:

• Adapted a published focus group protocol for virtual delivery.
• Conducted 2-hour facilitated workshops with 3-5 participants each.
• Utilized video conferencing for remote group sessions.
• Included qualitative evaluation by researchers and participants.

Main Results:

• Successfully implemented virtual focus group workshops with high fidelity to the original protocol.
• Generated rich qualitative data on intervention impacts and relevant environmental factors.
• Demonstrated that virtual delivery facilitates cross-participant interaction.
• Found the experience to be easy and comfortable for participants.

Conclusions:

• Virtually delivered focus group workshops are a valuable tool for engaging stakeholders remotely.
• This method is effective for qualitative data collection and intervention evaluation, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic or when geography is a barrier.
• Careful planning for privacy, security, and facilitation is critical for successful virtual focus groups.