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Title An Experimental Comparison of Computer-Mediated and Face-to-Face Focus Groups
Source Social Science Computer Review, 21, 4, pp. 506-513
Year 2003
Access date 19.05.2004
Abstract

Conducting focus groups via computers is becoming an increasingly popular method for collecting data. The main benefits of Internet-based focus groups include lower-cost, no travel expenses, automatic capture of the discussion data, and the ability to reach remote populations for participation. Although Internet-based focus groups are popular, little research has been done to compare the quantity and quality of the information obtained from traditional face-to-face groups and computer-based focus groups. This study compared the quantity and quality of information gained from face-to-face and two computer-based focus group conditions. Results indicated conducting focus groups using a computer produces similar amounts of information. Most important, the quality of the information obtained from computer-based focus groups is not significantly different from information obtained from face-to-face groups. Varying levels of social interaction to cause different levels of perceived social presence did not produce differences in the quality or quantity of information.

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Year of publication2003
Bibliographic typeJournal article
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