SayPro Focus Group Discussion Template

Section 1: Pre-Discussion Information

Focus Group Topic:

Date:

Time:

Location:

Facilitator(s):

Note Taker(s):

Participants:

• Total Number of Participants: _______________
• Participant Roles/Groups (if applicable):
  • Teachers
  • Parents
  • Students
  • Administrators
  • Community Members
  • Other (please specify): _______________

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Section 2: Introduction & Ground Rules

1. Welcome and Introductions:
   • Greet participants and briefly introduce yourself.
   • Ask participants to introduce themselves (name, role, and brief background).
2. Purpose of the Focus Group:
   • Clearly explain the goal of the discussion. For example: “We’re here to gather your opinions on [specific topic] to better understand [purpose/goal].”
3. Confidentiality and Consent:
   • Inform participants that their responses will be kept confidential and that the session may be recorded (if applicable).
   • Obtain verbal or written consent for recording if necessary.
4. Ground Rules for the Discussion:
   • Speak one at a time.
   • There are no right or wrong answers—everyone’s input is valuable.
   • Respect each other’s opinions.
   • Feel free to elaborate and provide examples where possible.
   • Stay on topic and avoid side conversations.
   • Share time equally.

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Section 3: Discussion Questions

Warm-Up Questions:

• 1. How long have you been involved with [specific program/initiative] or in your current role?
  2. Can you briefly describe your overall experience with [topic]?

Core Discussion Questions:

• Question 1: What do you think are the main strengths of [program/initiative]?
  • Probes: What works well? What benefits have you noticed for the participants (students, teachers, etc.)?
• Question 2: What challenges or obstacles have you encountered in relation to [topic]?
  • Probes: What is hindering success? How do these challenges affect the program or its outcomes?
• Question 3: What do you believe are the most important priorities for improving [program/initiative]?
  • Probes: What changes would have the greatest impact? What new initiatives could help address the challenges?
• Question 4: How do you feel about the level of support and resources available for [specific group/area]?
  • Probes: Are the resources sufficient? How could they be better utilized or expanded?
• Question 5: In your opinion, how well do different stakeholders (teachers, parents, administrators, etc.) collaborate on [topic]?
  • Probes: Are there gaps in communication or collaboration? How could collaboration be improved?
• Question 6: Looking ahead, what vision or goals do you think should be prioritized for the future of [program/initiative]?
  • Probes: Where do you see this program in 3-5 years? What long-term changes would benefit the participants or community?

Wrap-Up Questions:

• 1. Is there anything else you would like to add regarding [specific topic]?
  2. Do you have any final recommendations or suggestions for improving [program/initiative]?

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Section 4: Group Dynamics & Facilitator Notes

• Observations of Group Dynamics:
  • How was the overall interaction? Did everyone have an opportunity to speak?
  • Were there any dominant voices or participants who didn’t contribute much?
  • Was there a positive group energy, or were there any conflicts?
  • Did the group engage actively or seem hesitant to discuss certain topics?
• Facilitator’s Reflection:
  • Were any topics particularly sensitive or challenging to address?
  • Did the discussion bring up any unexpected issues or ideas?
  • How did participants react to specific questions or prompts?

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Section 5: Key Findings & Insights

Main Insights:

• Strengths:
• Challenges:
• Opportunities for Improvement:
• Suggestions for the Future:

Overall Themes:

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Section 6: Actionable Recommendations

• Based on the discussion, what specific actions should be considered?

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Section 7: Post-Discussion Steps

1. Next Steps/Follow-Up:
   • Inform participants if and how they will be informed of the outcomes or any follow-up actions.
   • Mention any planned actions or decisions based on the feedback gathered during the FGD.
2. Closing:
   • Thank the participants for their time and valuable insights.
   • Ensure that everyone has received a summary of the discussion (if applicable).

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Section 8: Evaluation (Optional)

(For internal purposes to evaluate the focus group process)

1. Was the focus group discussion helpful in achieving the goals of the session?
   • Yes
   • No
   • Somewhat
2. Was the facilitator effective in managing the group and keeping the discussion on track?
   • Yes
   • No
   • Somewhat
3. What could have been improved in the focus group process?
4. Other feedback:

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Facilitator’s Signature:

Date: