MODULE 2 Task 3 Tools for Needs Analysis

Trainers can also do a focus group in their Needs Analysis with a small group of participants. In
a focus group you ask the participants questions and facilitate a discussion. Below is a sample
of discussion questions on the topic of student-centered learning and some advice for facilitating
the discussion.

SAMPLE Focus Group

INTRODUCTION SCRIPT: In preparation for our training session, I would like to know more about your
experience with and opinions of student-centered learning. This information will help me to design the
training to best meet your needs and interests. I will ask you a few questions about the topic to discuss
with your peers. There are no right or wrong answers. The discussion should only take 15-30 minutes.
Thank you for your participation!

QUESTIONS:

1. How do you define “student-centered learning?” What does a student-centered class look like?
2. How often do you assess the needs of your students? How do you assess their needs?
3. What do you do to check your students’ understanding?
4. How important is student participation in your teaching? What do you look for in student
participation?
5. What are some challenges to student participation and engagement?
6. How much class time do your students spend working in pairs or groups?
7. What are some challenges to pair and group work?
8. Do you let students make decisions about assignments, grading, pair/group members, materials, etc.?

ADVICE for FACILITATON:

 select a small group of 5-10 people

 meet in a quiet, comfortable space where participants can sit together (and face each other)
 establish “ground rules” or guidelines for a respectful and balanced discussion
 take notes on participant verbal and nonverbal responses (facial expressions, gestures, etc.)
 allow participants to lead the discussion themselves, but interrupt as needed with comments
and questions for changing the topic or discussing something in detail

© 2017 by Arizona Board of Regents. Sample Focus Group for the AE E-Teacher Program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of
State and administered by FHI 360. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License, except where noted. To view a
copy of this license, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

The AE E-Teacher Program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, administered by FHI 360, and delivered by ASU.