Methodological Reflections on the Use of Asynchronous Online Focus Groups in Health Research

Authors

  • Sarah Williams University of Southampton
  • Maria Giatsi Clausen Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh
  • Ann Robertson The University of Edinburgh
  • Susi Peacock Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh
  • Kerri McPherson Glasgow Caledonian University

Abstract

The Internet is increasingly used as a tool in qualitative research. In particular, asynchronous online focus groups are used when factors such as cost, time, or access to participants can make conducting face-to-face research difficult. In this article we consider key methodological issues involved in using asynchronous online focus groups to explore experiences of health and illness. The written nature of Internet communication, the lack of physical presence, and the asynchronous, longitudinal aspects enable participants who might not normally contribute to research studies to reflect on their personal stories before disclosing them to the researcher. Implications for study design, recruitment strategies, and ethics should be considered when deciding whether to use this method.

Author Biographies

Sarah Williams, University of Southampton

Research fellow, Psychology Department

Maria Giatsi Clausen, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh

Lecturer, Occupational Health

Ann Robertson, The University of Edinburgh

Research Fellow, Centre for Population Health Sciences

Susi Peacock, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh

Senior Lecturer, Centre of Academic Practice

Kerri McPherson, Glasgow Caledonian University

Senior lecturer, Department of Psychology

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Published

2012-07-16

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Section

Articles