Which of the following is true of focus group discussions?
A) They usually employ large samples.
B) Consumers’ facial expressions are hidden.
C) Results can be easily generalized to an entire population.
D) The quantitative data can be evaluated quickly and economically.
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is None of the above. However, if we had to choose the most accurate option, none of the listed choices correctly describe focus group discussions. Let’s examine why:
Explanation:
Focus group discussions (FGDs) are a qualitative research method where a small group of participants (usually 6-12) discuss a topic under the guidance of a moderator. They are commonly used in market research, social sciences, and policy studies to explore people’s opinions, attitudes, and behaviors.
- Option A: “They usually employ large samples.”
- Incorrect. FGDs use small samples, typically ranging from 6 to 12 participants per session. They aim to explore in-depth insights, not to represent a large population.
- Option B: “Consumers’ facial expressions are hidden.”
- Incorrect. In fact, facial expressions and body language are crucial in FGDs. They help researchers understand participants’ emotions and reactions beyond spoken words.
- Option C: “Results can be easily generalized to an entire population.”
- Incorrect. Since FGDs use small, non-random samples, the findings cannot be generalized to a larger population. They provide insights rather than statistically representative data.
- Option D: “The quantitative data can be evaluated quickly and economically.”
- Incorrect. FGDs generate qualitative data, not quantitative. The data requires careful transcription, thematic analysis, and interpretation, which can be time-consuming and costly.
Conclusion:
Focus group discussions are valuable for exploring perceptions, motivations, and experiences but are not suitable for statistical generalization. They are best used as an exploratory tool before conducting larger surveys.