Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) - PART 6 - Quick Instructions For Notetakers
Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) - PART 6
Quick Instructions For Notetakers
1. Dont write down peoples stories. Just write down the point, and only do that if it is on theme.
2. The person taking notes should not write down side conversations unless its really important to the whole discussion.
3. Write down summaries, not every word. The quality of the information counts, not the quantity.
4. Notetakers should type their notes and give a copy to the Team Leader. Notetakers handwriting might not be readable by other people, particularly when they are writing quickly in note form.
5. The notetaker should not write down individual or household level needs, but rather what the community as a whole needs.
6. Try to be specific in your summary of the issues. Write in full sentences. Do not just write down bullet points like forced labour or poor shelter because that is not enough information to act. Explain what you mean.
7. Please keep in mind that the value of having the discussion groups is in what you report on in writing afterwards. The conversation that you remember participating in will not be actionable by humanitarians if you do not report it in writing.
Source: UNHCR, Focus Group Discussions (FGDS) - BRIEF INSTRUCTIONS FOR RAPID ASSESSMENT FOCUS GROUP DISCUSSIONS