| Session Title: Using Matrix Ranking to Mitigate Facilitator Bias in Focus Groups |
| Skill-Building Workshop 107 to be held in Conference Room 13 on Wednesday, Nov 2, 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM |
| Sponsored by the International and Cross-cultural Evaluation TIG |
| Presenter(s): |
| Linda Stern, National Democratic Institute for International Affairs, lstern@ndi.org |
| Alison Miranda, National Democratic Institute for International Affairs, amiranda@ndi.org |
| Abstract: Focus groups are a staple of evaluation methodology, providing rich qualitative data for understanding attitudes, opinions and perceptions. However, research has documented the potential for facilitator bias when using focus groups and other participatory research methods. This skills-building session demonstrates the use of a participatory learning and action (PLA) tool - Matrix Ranking - and its potential for mitigating facilitator bias. The Matrix Ranking tool helps a focus group to largely self-facilitate their discussion, come to consensus and quantify their priorities. This hands-on skills session will highlight the use of the Matrix Ranking tool in assessing organizational capacity in the US, local NGO priorities in Uganda, and citizen priorities in Cambodia. The session will then give participants the opportunity to use the Matrix Ranking tool during a simulation exercise and then reflect on its rigor and utility. |