Reimagining the Focus Group Using Restorative Circle Practice

• In Event: Fairmont Roundtable Session Five
  In Roundtable Session: Researching With and Shared Narrative in Inquiry (Table 4)

Abstract

Focus groups are well-established in qualitative research for gathering information from groups (Babbie, 2011). However, focus groups can engage power dynamics and existing biases in both researchers and participants, affecting the quality of the data and creating negative experiences (Chicago Beyond, 2018). A dissertation examining equity and professional learning led to collaboration between a qualitative researcher and an experienced circle facilitator. A focus group was designed using restorative practice, following the format of a community circle (Boyes-Watson & Pranis, 2020). Results from this pilot suggest that this method has benefits, including connecting participants to each other and creating an emotionally safe environment that leads to deeper sharing. This session will present the study, methods, and recommendations for practice.

Authors

• Sue Romas, University of Portland
  Presenting Author

• Russ Romas, Tigard-Tualatin School District
  Presenting Author