Use of Synchronous Online Focus Groups as a Needs Assessment Tool

Abstract

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists will hold an educational conference in September of 2013. This action research project used synchronous on-line focus groups, as a tool for needs assessment in preparation for the conference. Participant’s comfort with accessing and using the technology was evaluated and the effectiveness of the focus group process was assessed. Data was collected using synchronous on-line questions, along with pre and post-event survey instruments. This paper presents and discusses that data, along with the challenges encountered with the project. General needs assessment findings are reviewed. Suggestions for future use of this process and future research opportunities are discussed.