The focus groups were conducted by a moderator and assistant moderator. The materials to be evaluated and the list of discussion questions were provided to the moderator 2 weeks prior to the scheduled discussions. To allow first-hand knowledge of the discussion, the assistant moderator was one of the project researchers who subsequently would be involved with the data analysis. The focus group discussions were audio-recorded, with notes also taken by the assistant moderator. At the conclusion of each discussion, the moderator and assistant moderator reviewed the discussion and notes.
Analysis begins with considering the original intent of the study.
If the study is narrow, then elaborate analysis may not be necessary. After the tapes and notes were transcribed, the transcripts were reviewed for similar ideas and themes. A summary report was complied from the review of the transcripts. The consensus among the groups was that the materials did address their concerns, but that there was too much information provided at one time. Suggestions included dividing the information into modules and adding additional graphics to increase readability.