Methodological Map of a Focus Group
Focus groups provide a method of observation used by an increasing number of researchers in field research, specialized or otherwise. The method consists in bringing together a small group of individuals as a sample of a larger population group in order to collect opinions or reactions concerning a predetermined theme, using mainly closed questions. The formal use of focus groups in geography began in the 1980s with a study on environmental values and public spaces. The benefits derived from this flexible interviewing method depend on the moderator’s steering ability as revealed during direct exchanges between participants. The talents required of focus group moderators in their steering of the group are best identified in telephone focus groups.