The validity and reliability of focus groups as a research method in adult education

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Title:	The validity and reliability of focus groups as a research method in adult education
Author(s):	Chioncel, N.E. ; Veen, R.G.W. van der ; Wildemeersch, D.A. ; Jarvis, P.
Publication year:	2003
Source:	International Journal of Lifelong Education, vol. 22, iss. 5, (2003), pp. 495-517
ISSN:	0260-1370
DOI:	http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/0260137032000102850
Publication type:	Article / Letter to editor
Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item : http://hdl.handle.net/2066/63584
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Subject:	Inequality Cohesion Rationalization Ongelijkheid Cohesie Rationalisatie
Organization:	SW OZ BSI OE
Journal title:	International Journal of Lifelong Education
Volume:	vol. 22
Issue:	iss. 5
Page start:	p. 495
Page end:	p. 517
Abstract:	The article examines the theory and practice of focus groups in adult education research. Three theoretical positions are described: radical hermeneutic, moderate interpretative and pragmatic realistic position trying to bridge the gap with positivist research. This last position has been chosen as the departure point for a further analysis of the focus group elements, which relate to validity and reliability. The research examines four European research projects in the field of adult education. The most important and surprising data are presented with reference to both socio-psychological and technical problems in the use of this method. The results highlight the importance and dynamics of all the elements discussed.