| Session Title: Multimedia Advances in Evaluation: The Use of Skype, Elluminate, and Virtual World Technologies in Conducting Focus Group Interviews |
| Demonstration Session 596 to be held in TRAVIS B on Friday, Nov 12, 1:40 PM to 3:10 PM |
| Sponsored by the Integrating Technology Into Evaluation |
| Presenter(s): |
| Corliss Brown, University of North Carolina at Chapel-Hill, ccbrown@email.unc.edu |
| Lauren Kendall, University of North Carolina at Chapel-Hill, lkendall@email.unc.edu |
| Taniya Reaves, University of North Carolina at Chapel-Hill, treaves@email.unc.edu |
| Jessica Milton, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, jrmilton@email.unc.edu |
| Johnavae Campbell, University of North Carolina at Chapel-Hill, johnavae@email.unc.edu |
| Abstract: Technological advances have facilitated data collection for evaluation research by expanding accessibility for both researchers and participants. However, current use of email does not allow real time conference participation necessary for interviews and focus groups. More recent web-based media allow several methods of communicability including audio or video teleconferencing, instant messaging and document sharing with some software allowing for integrated use of all four methods to accommodate the range of accessibility for participants. Benefits of online focus groups include lower recruitment costs, increased engagement and an absence of logistic and travel expenses. This demonstration examines the features of three applications that support facilitated data collection: Skype, Elluminate and online virtual Worlds. Limitations include increased training and orientation, discourse analysis, identity of participants and possible technical difficulties. Integrated properly, these applications could increase quality of data collection while decreasing collection time and costs. |