Introduction to Focus Groups – Based on Krueger (2009)
Student Perception of Open Access and OER
9/24/2011
Topic
The Copyright of Educational Resources in the Current Society
Welcome
“Good morning everyone. Thank you for coming here today and taking the time to join our discussion of use and copyright of educational resources. My name is Alfonso Sintjago and I am a current graduate student at the University of Minnesota hoping to better understand what current technological developments mean for the future of education.”
Overview of the Topic
“As access to computers and the internet become increasingly ubiquitous in society, and increasingly impact education, it is important for researcher to know how the internet is being used by both teachers and students. By better understanding how the information available on the internet is used in the classroom, we can better formulate guidelines about best practices, and understand some of the conflicts educators are having as a result of the growing use of information and communications technologies in education”
“You were invited because of your experiences both as a student and a teacher using modern information and communication technologies. We understand that your experiences may include positive and/or negative accounts. Please share with us your experience so that we can continue to adapt our information and communication technology use within the classroom. When thinking of technology in the classrooms please think of both your experiences with traditional educational technologies such as the blackboard and paper books, and newer technologies such as mobile phones and laptops.”
Ground Rules
“We hope that you feel comfortable in sharing your opinion. Technologies are tools that help educators better reach and instruct their students. There is no right or wrong answer. Please share with us your point of view even if it is different from the point of view of other participants.”
“We are audio recording this session to make sure that we do not miss any of your valuable comments. The contents of this discussion will remain anonymous and your comments are confidential.”
“We have placed name tents by you so that we are able to address you by your name and so that you are able to comment on the points made by other members of the group, if you feel inclined to do so. You can choose if you want to add to, to expand, or express your disagreement with a comment made by another person in this room. Feel free to have a conversation with other members of the room about the different questions. We are interested in hearing from everyone in this room. If you feel that you may be talking a lot, give others the opportunity to also express themselves. If you have not shared much with the group, I may call on you to better understand your opinions. We are interested in knowing your ideas and opinions regarding this topic”
“If you have an electronic device such as a mobile phone, or an iPad, please turn the volume off or turn them off if possible. If you need to step out to answer a call feel free to do so. Also, feel free to get up and grab some refreshments if you feel like it. Thank you again for taking part in this conversation.”
Opening Question
“Let’s begin. Let’s learn a bit more about each other. Let’s go around the room and one at a time share with us your name, and how many devices you have in your house that you or your family members use regularly to connect to the internet?
….
“How many hours a day do you spend on the internet and on a computer?”
“Do you use images from the internet in your works, such as class power points, presentations?”
