Research in Partnership With Older People-Involvement in Conducting and Analysing Focus Groups

Data collection and analysis in collaboration with co-researchers has rarely been described, and its impact on the research process and outcomes remains unknown. Thus, this study involved older co-researchers in the moderation and analysis of focus groups and describes process and outcomes.

The SeFallED project included collaboration with co-researchers in the moderation and analysis of focus group interviews. Three focus groups were co-moderated by an academic researcher and three by a co-researcher. The co-analysis was conducted in collaboration with two co-researchers for three transcripts. Research diaries were maintained throughout the process for reflection. These were supplemented by feedback from the focus group participants. Moderation and analysis were described with regard to the questions and derived categories.

Reflections on the process highlight both facilitators and challenges in involving co-researchers. A positive atmosphere and training for co-researchers can be beneficial, whereas the significant time requirements can be challenging. With regard to outcomes, our analysis showed that collaboration led to a greater focus on focus group participants' feelings and facilitated a more profound comprehension of their statements.

The present study provides recommendations for the process of co-researcher involvement in conducting and analysing focus groups. Involving co-researchers requires a positive atmosphere, training and adequate time. Furthermore, our findings help to sensitise researchers to the potential impacts on research outcomes.

Three co-researchers collaborated in the moderation and analysis of the focus groups. All three co-researchers reviewed this paper.

The SeFallED project was registered at the German Clinical Trial Register (DRKS00025949, Registration Date: 4 November 2021).