Hi Peta -- I don't know of any systematic studies on the topic of using
focus groups with blind and visually impaired people, but I have done many
myself and have some thoughts on the process. First, there is no essential
difference unless the topic of the research requires reacting to something
visually. We have done some where visual reaction was a topic, but since
the issue was precisely the effective visibility, or readability (of a
large print document), we did not need to make any adaptation.
If people are coming to a site, there are specific logistical
considerations, e.g. providing for several guide dogs, and assuring enough
assistance to handle refreshments (avoiding the buffet style), and filling
out any necessary forms for reimbursement (having them in the accessible
format people prefer, or if they prefer, having a reader available). Of
course, assuring transportation either by providing it or paying for it is
more likely to come up than with a sighted group.
More recently, we have conducted teleconference focus groups with elderly,
low vision persons about the usability of a new large print version of the
Medicare handbook; I had been leery about the telephone method but now am
sold on it, especially because it allows participation by people who would
not come to a central site both because of health issues as well as other
transportation difficulties. We mailed out the handbook in advance for them
to study, and we figured in an extra hour for spending time on the handbook
in advance, when paying an "honorarium" for their participation. Obviously,
the method also permits wide geographic participation. It is possible also
that visual cues for interaction are less relevant for people with visual
impairment, and that is another reason the telephone seemed to work well;
however that last point deserves study since it may not be so, or there may
be other advantages of in-person groups that I am missing.
I'd be glad to hear other people's reactions.
Corinne
Corinne Kirchner, Ph.D.
Director of Policy Research & Program Evaluation
American Foundation for the Blind
At 07:52 PM 11/09/2000 -0500, Peta Fry wrote:
>Hi,
>
>I am nearly finished my honours year and am looking at how focus group
>techniques can be improved to maximise involvement of people with vision
>impairment.
>
>Does anyone know of any studies that go into any detail of the
>techniques used in the groups?
>
>thanks, Peta
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Corinne Kirchner, Ph.D.
Director of Policy Research & Program
Evaluation
American Foundation for the Blind
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