Case Study - Philippines Metagora Pilot Project CHAPTER 2: DEVELOPMENT OF THE FOCUS GROUP DISCUSSIONS AND LOCAL CONSULTATIONS (page 1)
The project employed Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) as a data-collection tool to obtain qualitative data that could enrich the findings of the study and to substantiate the quantitative results. During deliberations by the project’s Implementing Group of Experts (IGE), it was agreed that human rights, the topic of this pilot survey, require more than statistics to be fully described and interpreted. Issues and concerns raised during several local consultations enriched the data obtained from the FGDs and the survey.
2.1 FOCUS GROUP DISCUSSIONS
2.1.1 Rationale for the Use of FGDs in a Data-collection Project
A focus group discussion (FGD) is a qualitative method of obtaining in-depth information on concepts, perceptions and ideas of groups of approximately 6-12 informants guided by a facilitator. Their purposes are generally to:
- Focus research and develop relevant hypotheses by exploring in greater depth the problem to be investigated and its possible causes;
- Formulate appropriate questions for more structured, larger-scale surveys;
- Help understand and solve unexpected problems in interventions;
- Develop appropriate messages for Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaigns; and
- Explore controversial topics.
In his book, The Focus Group Guidebook, David L. Morgan describes the significance of focus groups in obtaining qualitative data. He states that context and depth help illuminate the background behind people’s thoughts and experiences, and that focus groups reveal these complex influences by encouraging informants to investigate the ways that they are both similar to and different from each other. The discussions in a focus group create a process of sharing and comparing among the informants. Morgan states that in a lively group conversation, the informants will do the work of exploration and discovery for you.
The Philippines Metagora Project decided to undertake FGD among selected participants in the project sites because it was determined necessary to give the Philippines Metagora survey a sharper focus. It was also determined that interaction amoung important sectoral groups and community leaders would allow in-depth discussions of issues and problems faced by these communities. This would provide valuable insights for the survey. FDGs also contribute to solve queries around the appropriateness or suitability of the purpose and content of certain questions.
2.1.2 Training on FGD
After agreeing with the target tribes during the Ancestral Domain Consultations to hire FGD moderators and recorders from among tribe members, a training on FGD for the chosen moderators and recorders was conducted at La Trinidad, Benguet on January 4 and 5, 2005.
2.1.2.1 Training Objectives
The training sought to equip the participants with knowledge and skills to be able to:
- Conduct FGD among target groups of IPs in three ancestral domains;
- Prepare a plan of action for conducting FGDs in the target ancestral domains; and
- Appreciate their role in FGD, which will contribute to the success of the overall Philippines Metagora pilot project.
2.1.2.2 The Trainers
The design of the training, the basic materials and implementation were undertaken by a contracted trainer, Dr. Eligio Barsaga of SEAMEO, Innotech. The PIO project staff provided supplementary technical assistance for the training.
2.1.2.3 The Participants
A total of 41 participants, including IP recruits and representatives from CHRP, NSCB, and NCIP, attended the training. The IP representatives were to be trained as moderators and recorders for three focus groups—women, youth and tribal leader focus groups—that will be targeted per tribe. There would be one moderator, recorder and supervisor per focus group in each tribe. Participants from partner agencies and the PIO were to assume the role of FGD supervisors.
2.1.2.4 Training Content and Activities
The training content covered the following:
| 
