Online Focus Groups Research Articles

Reflections on timing of motherhood - a qualitative online study with women of reproductive age.

The age of Danish women giving birth to their first child has risen throughout the last 50 years, and the number of women and men who are having their first child when they are at advanced maternal or paternal age is increasing worldwide. Postponing parenthood is not unique to Denmark, as the same pattern is seen especially in other European and Western countries. The aim of this study was in a social media setting to explore reflections on the timing of motherhood among Danish women of reproductive age who not yet had children. This study was a qualitative study based on three online focus groups on Facebook. Twenty-six women of reproductive age discussed the timing of motherhood for three days in January 2020. Data were analyzed using Systematic Text Condensation. Three main themes were identified: 'Life before parenthood', 'To plan for a child' and 'A life without children'. Several external and internal conditions influence whether and if so when women consider becoming mothers. Regarding the biological capacity for having children, women compare themselves with their female relatives and friends and colleagues regarding the social norms surrounding motherhood. Women with no children often experience either positive or negative pressure from family, friends, and colleagues regarding when to have children. Several internal and external considerations influence when and if women become mothers. Social surroundings such as family, friends, and colleagues have an impact on women's reproductive considerations in terms of pressure to have children in the future. Danish women tend to compare their reproductive capacity to their female relatives and compare the social norms surrounding motherhood to their female friends. Women in this study were positive towards discussing the timing of motherhood with other women of reproductive age on social media.

Key contextual factors involved with participation in medical and genomic screening and research for African American and White Americans: a qualitative inquiry.

Tremendous progress has been made promoting diversity in recruitment for genomic research, yet challenges remain for several racial demographics. Research has cited intertwined fears of racial discrimination and medical mistrust as contributing factors. This study aimed to identify key factors to establishing trust in medical and genomic screening and research among African Americans and White Americans. Participants completed online focus groups and resulting transcripts were analyzed using a qualitative descriptive approach, with content analysis methods based on recommendations by Schreier. Fifteen African Americans and twenty-three White Americans participated in the study, 63% of which were female. The mean age of participants was 38.5 (SD = 16.6). The Overarching Theme of Trust is Context Dependent was identified, along with the following five themes describing elements influencing trustworthiness for our participants: (1) Professional Experience, Education, and Training Bolster Trust; (2) Trust Depends on Relationships; (3) Cross-checking Provided Information is Influential in Establishing Trust; (4) Trust is Undermined by Lack of Objectivity and Bias; and (5) Racism is an Embedded Concern and a Medical Trust Limiting Component for African Americans. To effectively address mistrust and promote recruitment of diverse participants, genomic research initiatives must be communicated in a manner that resonates with the specific diverse communities targeted. Our results suggest key factors influencing trust that should be attended to if we are to promote equity appropriately and respectfully by engaging diverse populations in genomic research.

Exploring the Impact of Online Focus Group Gender Composition: Insights from a Study on Gender and Transport

Despite considerable attention in the academic domain, end-users of transport systems are rarely directly asked what they think of gender inequity in transport. Shedding light on this could inform education strategies to address such inequities. This research addresses this research gap, revealing how people think about differences in the way transport systems support (or do not support) the safe and comfortable mobility of men and women. It does so via the use of asynchronous online focus groups, to which 114 people contributed. The research also addresses questions around the impact of focus group gender composition on participants’ responses, an issue not previously considered in online or asynchronous contexts. Results suggest there is broad acceptance of women’s transport disadvantage, with men’s views of women’s experiences largely matching women’s own reports. Women’s views of men’s experiences were less reflective of the male reality. Safety and security were commonly discussed; however, trip complexity and other constraints, driven by differences in care roles taken, were discussed less and therefore represent a potential avenue for education strategies. Group gender composition did impact upon responding, with several of the effects previously found in face-to-face focus group research also manifesting in the anonymous, online context.

“Where Do Children Go?”: Exploring Children’s Daily Destinations With Children, Parents, and Experts

Research on children’s destinations has primarily focused on school trips, yet their lives are more than that. Different destinations contribute to children’s quality of life in different ways, but this is rarely examined. For our research, focus groups were conducted with different stakeholders to better understand non-school destinations, namely by identifying common, daily, and informal destinations and perceptions of how they relate to children’s well-being. Online focus group discussions were conducted with children (aged 8–12), parents (with children aged 7–13), and experts from different cities across Canada in May and June 2023, to obtain diverse opinions about children’s destinations. The analysis was conducted based on a prior review to categorize children’s destinations, identify informal destinations, green and grey places, and the relation between those destinations to children’s well-being. Discussions with parents, children, and experts highlighted the diversity of destinations relevant to children. Leisure destinations were one of the most mentioned in the discussions. Spaces without specific rules or structures were identified by experts as beneficial for children’s cognitive, social, physical, and psychological health. Parents mentioned primarily formal places, whereas children and experts mentioned primarily informal ones. Green destinations were more associated with physical well-being, though children dominantly associated green destinations with psychological well-being as well. All groups dominantly associated grey-type destinations with social and cognitive well-being. Using these results, urban planners can develop strategies to improve children’s access to their daily destinations that support their well-being.

User preferences for an mHealth app to support HIV testing and pre-exposure prophylaxis uptake among men who have sex with men in Malaysia.

Recent estimates report a high incidence and prevalence of HIV among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Malaysia. Mobile apps are a promising and cost-effective intervention modality to reach stigmatized and hard-to-reach populations to link them to HIV prevention services (e.g., HIV testing, pre-exposure prophylaxis, PrEP). This study assessed attitudes and preferences toward the format, content, and features of a mobile app designed to increase HIV testing and PrEP uptake among Malaysian MSM. We conducted six online focus groups between August and September 2021 with 20 MSM and 16 stakeholders (e.g., doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and NGO staff) to query. Transcripts were analyzed in Dedoose software to identify thematic content. Key themes in terms of app functions related to stylistic preferences (e.g., design, user interface), engagement strategies (e.g., reward systems, reminders), recommendations for new functions (e.g., enhanced communication options via chat, discussion forum), cost of services (e.g., PrEP), and legal considerations concerning certain features (e.g., telehealth, patient identification), minimizing privacy and confidentiality risks. Our data suggest that a tailored HIV prevention app would be acceptable among MSM in Malaysia. The findings further provide detailed recommendations for successfully developing a mobile app to improve access to HIV prevention services (e.g., HIV testing, PrEP) for optimal use among MSM in Malaysia.

SARS-CoV-2 outbreak management in nursing homes in Ireland: reflections of COVID-19 response teams from earlier to later waves of the pandemic

BackgroundA review of key learnings from the response to the COVID-19 pandemic in nursing homes in Ireland can inform planning for future pandemics. This study describes barriers and facilitators contributing to COVID-19 outbreak management from the perspective of frontline teams.MethodsA qualitative study involving ten online focus group meetings was conducted. Data was collected between April and June 2023. The focus group discussions explored the views, perceptions and experiences of COVID-19 Response Team (CRT) members, clinical/public health experts who worked with them, and care professionals who worked in frontline managerial roles during the pandemic. All nine Community Healthcare Organisations and six Public Health Areas in Ireland were represented. Inductive reflexive thematic analysis was carried out using NVivo Pro 20.ResultsIn total, 54 staff members participated in focus group meetings. Five themes were developed from a thematic analysis that covered topics related to (1) infection prevention and control challenges and response to the pandemic, (2) social model of care and the built environment of nursing homes, (3) nursing home staffing, (4) leadership and staff practices, and (5) support and guidance received during the pandemic.ConclusionsThe response to the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a steep learning curve, internationally and in Ireland. Preparing better for future pandemics not only requires changes to infection control and outbreak response but also to the organisation and operation of nursing homes. There is a great need to strengthen the long-term care sector’s regulations and support around staffing levels, nursing home facilities, governance, use of technology, infection prevention and control, contingency planning, and maintaining collaborative relationships and strategic leadership. Key findings and recommendations from the Irish example can be used to improve the quality of care and service delivery at local, national, and policy levels and improve preparedness for future pandemics, in Ireland and internationally.

Prioritizing health, well-being, active ageing needs in Lithuania: insights from stakeholders

Abstract Background The rate of aging in Lithuania is faster than the EU average. The number of long-term health problems in older (65+yrs) people increases, posing changes in societal needs. The aim of our study was to identify the most important needs of older people in Lithuania. Methods Generic qualitative inquiry employed purposeful sampling of stakeholders in Lithuania: policymakers, administration, academia, civil society, health care, social service, public health, organizations of elderly. 43 experts, engaged in online focus groups, generated a list of needs for health, wellbeing, active ageing in elderly; they deliberated to prioritize top 5; scientific team condensed a list of 10 for voting to determine final 5 national needs. Research was done within project “Roadmap to improve the health and well-being of the ageing population in the Baltic Sea Region (AgeFLAG)”, 2020. Results Top needs identified were: shaping healthy lifestyle habits and motivation for change (72%) / age friendly environment and virtual assistive technologies (72%); person centred care (domiciliary care, residential care and nursing, social activities and etc. depending on the needs and wishes of the older person) (58%); increasing and maintaining physical capacity (56%); intersectoral collaboration and integration of social and health services (53%); establishment of positive public attitudes towards elderly people (50%). All stakeholders indicated that “Establishment of positive public attitudes towards elderly people” is the corner stone of all priorities for action to healthy ageing in Lithuania. Conclusions The main issue hindering active and healthy ageing in Lithuania - negative image of ageing in the society. Recommendations on the public health actions included promoting intergenerational conversation, reducing stigmas around ageing, strengthening social inclusion, generating age-friendly environments, and creating a safe space for self-realization and development. Key messages • The main issue hindering active and healthy ageing in Lithuania – negative image of ageing in the society. • The change in the population requires the transformation of health care and social care systems building age friendly environments in Lithuania.

Patient and healthcare provider perspectives on a digital first general practice: mixed-method study

Abstract Background General practitioners (GPs) are facing an increased workload as a result of an aging population and a growing prevalence of chronic diseases. Utilizing eHealth may help to enhance healthcare accessibility and reduce costs. A digital platform was developed that integrates eHealth into the organizational aspects of general practices. This study aims to provide insight into the experiences of patients and healthcare professionals with this new, digital way of working. Methods A mixed-method study was conducted in three Dutch general practices working with the digital platform. The digital platform focuses on digital communication and remote healthcare delivery in primary care. Primary outcomes included acceptability, the implementation process, suggestions for improvement, and facilitators and barriers for future implementation. Patient perspectives were identified through online questionnaires and focus groups, and healthcare professionals’ experiences were explored through in-depth interviews. Results Five focus groups and ten in-depth interviews were held. The questionnaires were completed by 616 patients. Patient acceptability of the care concept was high (M = 3.9, SD = 1.0; on a scale from 1-5) and they were satisfied with received care (M = 30.1, SD = 3.4; on a scale from 8-32). Regarding the perceived quality of consults, patients were positive about the longer duration of physical consults (i.e., 20 instead of 10 minutes). Some participants indicated a less personal doctor-patient relationship, because care was provided by various GPs. Conclusions Overall, patients and healthcare professionals were positive about the digital platform. The study gives insights into how to improve the care concept, e.g., how to enhance the doctor-patient relationship. Key messages • Digital first general practices that integrate eHealth into the practice’s organizational aspects of are considered acceptable by patients and healthcare professionals. • Digital first general practices can help to improve healthcare accessibility for both patients and healthcare professionals.

Public and professional stakeholders' perceptions of alcohol advertising and availability policies: A qualitative study.

Reducing alcohol availability and restricting alcohol advertising are effective ways to reduce harm from alcohol. Implementation of public health policies involves collaboration between different stakeholders, and is influenced by public opinion. This paper explores public and professional stakeholders' perceptions of alcohol advertising and availability policies. It is the first to capture consensus and divergence in narratives of these stakeholders. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 14 stakeholders from third sector organisations, government, public health and alcohol licensing in Scotland. We conducted 11 online focus groups with 45 participants, living in neighbourhoods in Scotland characterised by varying levels of urbanity, deprivation and retail density change. We gave participants a list of policies and discussed their views on acceptability, feasibility and likely success. Despite general consensus that regulation of alcohol advertising is an important priority, public stakeholders were concerned about the feasibility of advertising interventions and potential unintended consequences. While professional stakeholders were in favour of regulating alcohol availability, public stakeholders had misgivings about feasibility and effectiveness. When prompted to discuss specific interventions, similar views about protecting children and achieving cultural change emerged. This study highlights the importance of policy makers and other stakeholders to consider public stakeholders' opinions on alcohol policy and understanding that their views may be influenced by competing framings of alcohol problems. Attempts to increase support for alcohol control policies need to consider people's concerns about the effectiveness and potential unintended consequences of these policies, and the wider social context of alcohol consumption.

Gender stereotypes in Ukrainian healthcare: results of the mixed methods study

Abstract Background A good interpersonal patient-provider relationship is crucial for quality care, still patients frequently perceive interface as discriminatory and marginalizing, reinforcing societal gender roles and hindering healthcare quality. This becomes even more critical for healthcare systems with limited resources and prolonged emergencies, such as Ukraine during the COVID-19 pandemic and full-scale war. We explore gender stereotypes of healthcare workers in Ukraine. Methods This mixed-methods study was conducted in August-September 2022, and included: 1)16 online focus group discussions with 93 healthcare workers; 2)survey conducted face-to-face with 1,529 physicians and 502 nurses; modified Nijmegen Gender Awareness in Medicine Scale questionnaire was used. Qualitative data was transcribed and inductively analyzed. Survey results were analyzed in SPSS using descriptive statistics and correlation analyses. Results Healthcare workers perceived women patients as ‘more demanding’ and ‘less accommodating’ compared to men. Thus, 64% of healthcare workers perceived female patients as overusing health services; 44%-believed women have higher expectations than male patients; 61%-thought they expected excessive empathy; and 58%-noticed women veering off-topic during consultations. Also, respondents who supported the belief that male patients better understand doctors’ recommendations were more likely to also support the statement that female patients, compared to male patients, more often have higher expectations from doctors (rs = 0.4, p < 0.001). With age prevalence of gender stereotypes increased among healthcare workers; there were no significant differences by sex of healthcare workers, healthcare facility type, position, or geographical location. Conclusions It is crucial to develop and implement gender-sensitive approaches in Ukrainian health facilities, rooted in comprehensive training and continuous professional development targeting prevalent gender stereotypes. Key messages • Gender stereotypes are prevalent among healthcare workers in Ukraine. • Gender-sensitive approaches and comprehensive training should target prevalent gender stereotypes.

Cognitive and physical fatigue: the experience and consequences of brain fog after spontaneous coronary artery dissection, a qualitative study

Abstract Background Mild cognitive impairment (often subjectively referred to as "brain fog") and cognitive fatigue are common sequelae after acute coronary syndrome. However, little is known about the nature and impact of these experiences in spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) survivors. Purpose To understand if and how brain fog and cognitive fatigue are experienced following SCAD. Methods Participants were recruited from a larger SCAD genetics study database and were considered eligible if they had experienced SCAD within 12 months. Seven semi-structured online focus groups, with the primary aim of exploring psychosocial impacts of SCAD, were conducted between December 2021 and January 2022. Each focus group lasted for 1 hour 30 minutes and were led by investigators extensively experienced in qualitative research and cardiac rehabilitation. Interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim, and thematically analysed using Braun and Clark’s reflexive approach. Results Participants (n=30) had a mean age of 52.2±9.5 years and mostly female (n=27, 90%), partnered (n=27, 90%) and employed (n=27, 90%). Four main themes were identified: experiences of brain fog, perceived causes of brain fog, impacts of brain fog and coping with brain fog. Experiences of brain fog included memory lapses, difficulty concentrating and impaired judgement. Perceived causes of brain fog included medication, sleep deprivation and tiredness, and menopause and hormonal changes. The impacts of brain fog included rumination, changes in self-perception, disruption to hobbies and pastimes, and limitations at work. Coping mechanisms used for these challenges included reminders, setting expectations, being one's own advocate, making lifestyle adjustments, and support from peers. Conclusion Brain fog is commonly experienced by SCAD survivors and present challenges to normal life after SCAD. The impacts on daily life are varied, including those relating to self-perception and capacity to work. SCAD survivors reported difficulty understanding causes and found their own path to coping. Clinicians should be aware of these experiences as they are ideally placed to assist patients with these challenges.

Facilitating Family Carer Dementia Education: We All Need to Learn.

The importance of family carer dementia education is highlighted in research, practice guidance, and policy. Less attention is paid to how facilitators learn and prepare for their role. This research aimed to explore and describe facilitator learning experiences within a bespoke Scottish Carers' Academy designed around a theory-guided approach called Care Empathia. A healthcare and university partnership ensured integration with services and the fusion of dementia higher education know-how with clinical practice expertise. Nineteen facilitator questionnaires were completed from two Carer Academy hubs; thirteen participated in online focus groups. The questionnaire findings highlighted the learning gained from being a facilitator, observing expert facilitators in action, and listening to the testimonies of family carers. The framework analysis of the focus group data identified six themes, including safe learning approaches, the art of facilitation, emotional work, team learning, and leadership. These findings highlight the importance of facilitator preparation and the advantages of co-delivery models that combine clinical and practice education expertise. Facilitators need to understand how to walk the talk of theory-guided educational models, be open to reciprocity in learning, and be prepared for the emotional work of delivering trauma-informed practical dementia care education to family carers.

'You have to make it accessible and it's really not': priority actions to support disabled people to be physically active.

Disabled people are more likely than non-disabled people to be physically inactive, placing them at increased risk of ill-health. Many disabled people want to be more physically active yet feel there is inadequate support to do so. Evidence on the tangible actions that would support disabled people to be active is limited. The aim of this study was to explore the key actions that would best support disabled people's participation in physical activity. Twenty-one disabled people (62% >45 years, 48% male) were purposively sampled to take part in online focus groups (2-6 participants per group). Six focus groups were undertaken using a semi-structured guide, with transcripts thematically analysed. Thirteen themes were identified across four levels of the ecological model - interpersonal, institutional, community, and policy. Priority actions include mandatory training on how to support disabled people, improvements to the accessibility of facilities and equipment, improved frequency of public transport to activity centres, and actions to improve societal attitudes towards disabled people. A systems-based approach is needed, combining actions across levels of the ecological model, to ensure equitable access to physical activity for disabled people.

“Between formulas and freestyle” – a qualitative analysis of peer tutor preparation and its impact on peer relations

BackgroundPeer tutorials are widely used in medical and health professions education. Some evidence suggests that peer tutorials can have positive effects for student peer tutors and tutees alike. To promote these positive effects, peer tutors are often prepared for their tasks. However, detailed information about this preparation is missing in the literature. The present study thus examines from the tutors’ perspective how peer tutor preparation is conducted, both in interprofessional and uniprofessional contexts, and how this preparation affects peer relations.MethodsA qualitative design was used for the study. For data gathering, three online focus group discussions were conducted with student peer tutors from uniprofessional and interprofessional settings who had a background in health professions. Data were analysed inductively via thematic analysis.ResultsA total of 19 individuals participated in three focus group discussions (n = 6/n = 6/n = 7). From the participants’ perspective, preparation measures were heterogenous. Of a wide range of different measures, some were perceived as more helpful, others as less helpful. In analysing the data, three relevant themes came up which were dereived from the peer tutors’ perspective: roles, eye level, and (self-)trust. All three themes were found to be closely related and appeared to have a direct influence on peer relations. This influence on the learning/teaching process was either positive or negative depending on the respondents’ experiences.ConclusionFrom the peer tutors’ perspective, the preparation they received affected their relationships with their peers in a variety of ways, influenced by the context and the peer tutors’ needs. This finding should be taken into account when planning and implementing future preparatory activities. In addition, further pedagogical considerations and discussions about preparatory activities for peer tutors and their potential impact on social and cognitive congruence are needed.

MANAGING RECRUITMENT AND DATA COLLECTION: ONLINE FOCUS GROUPS BEST PRACTICES AND STRATEGIES TO ADDRESS SCAMMERS

Common methods to collect data include quantitative, qualitative, and mixed method approaches. Although it is common to complete data collection in-person, the onset of COVID-19 has resulted in the increased use of online modalities. Qualitative research is commonly gathered through individual or focus group interviews. However, best practices outlining strategies when conducting online focus groups and approaches to address issues specific to online research (i.e., scammers) are limited. Due to the growing use of data collection through such means, it is imperative to draw out specific strategies that could regulate data quality and reduce the chances of scamming. The current article addresses this practical gap by providing a synthesis of the available literature on online focus groups that document best practices and suggestions to deal with scammers which is currently missing from the literature. The goal was to provide initial suggestions to improve data quality of online focus groups by examining the available literature that outlines best practices, addresses the issues of scammers, and to provide a concise and comprehensive overview of identified literature The article is organized beginning with a review of the literature. The research is then synthesized including an outline of best practices and strategies to address scammers when engaging in online focus groups. The article closes with a discussion of the significance of the review, limitations, and article summary. Scammers are prevalent in online spaces. Although this article provides a preliminary outline of suggestions from the literature, more research is necessary that provides specific examples of how challenges have been addressed and the impact of including the recommended strategies on the research process and outcomes.

Considerations for the Design of Informed Consent in Digital Health Research: Participant Perspectives.

The research team, prospective participants, and written materials all influence the success of the informed consent process. As digital health research becomes more prevalent, new challenges for successful informed consent are introduced. This exploratory research utilized a human centered design process in which 19 people were enrolled to participate in one of four online focus-groups. Participants discussed their experiences with informed consent, preferences for receiving study information and ideas about alternative consent approaches. Data were analyzed using qualitative methods. Six major themes and sixteen sub-themes were identified that included study information that prospective participants would like to receive, preferences for accessing information and a desire to connect with research team members. Specific to digital health, participants expressed a need to understand how the technologies worked and how the volume of granular personal information would be collected, stored, and shared.

Consumers’ Perceptions and Behaviors Regarding Honey Purchases and Expectations on Traceability and Sustainability in Italy

Traceability is a cornerstone of sustainable honey production and consumption. Honey fraud and a lack of traceability have been recently highlighted by the European Commission. Innovative systems aimed at guaranteeing food safety ’from farm to fork’ and improved controls are highly recommended. Within the framework of the BPRACTICES project, part of the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program, and the ERA-Net SusAn initiative—focused on Sustainable Animal Production Systems—an advanced traceability system has been developed. This system utilizes QR code and radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology, along with a user-friendly web application, to facilitate direct interactions between producers and consumers. Despite existing research, studies on the information needs of Italian consumers regarding honey and its traceability remain limited. Understanding these needs is vital for creating effective communication strategies that enhance consumer satisfaction and trust. This study aims to identify the needs of Italian consumers’ honey during the purchasing and consumption decisions. To explore consumer perceptions, behaviors, expectations, and needs regarding honey, we employed diverse social research methodologies, including a quantitative online survey, paper-and-pencil interviews, and focus groups. The results of this study indicate a robust demand for more information on honey’s origin, production processes, and beekeeping practices, aligning with the recent EU Directive 2024/1438, which mandates clear labeling. Italian consumers would be willing to pay a premium for honey that offers detailed information about production practices and transparency. The positive reception of QR code technology by consumers suggests a growing openness to digital tools that enhance transparency and access to information. Ultimately, this research emphasizes the need for the beekeeping sector to adopt sustainable practices, improve traceability systems, and actively engage with consumers to foster trust and ensure long-term viability in the honey market. By addressing these information needs, the sector can align itself with increasing consumer demand for quality, sustainability, and transparency.

Advancing a tourist perspective in inclusive place branding: anticipated constraints of domestic tourists with foreign backgrounds

ABSTRACT Research on inclusive place branding has primarily focused on residents, while tourists are yet to be addressed, except in representation studies. Inclusion is, however, more than a matter of representation. It must also consider the needs of the tourists. This study explores people with foreign backgrounds’ anticipated constraints to domestic tourism. This article advances knowledge of inclusive place branding in multicultural societies by introducing the constraint-negotiation model to analyse the anticipated constraints. The data includes online focus groups with 30 participants living in Sweden. The findings identify constraints on individual, interpersonal, and system levels. These include language skills, knowledge of the domestic destination and personal habits, lack of domestic network, strong network in another country, and beliefs about place brand communication. The study creates new knowledge of inclusive place branding by enhancing an understanding of constraints to inclusive tourism from a tourist perspective, and the anticipations of people with a foreign background. The findings suggest that understanding and addressing people’s experiences and needs are significant, and inclusion in a multicultural society is a multifaceted and ongoing process. Furthermore, the findings suggest that it is crucial to incorporate non-included groups in the process of producing place brand communication.

Facilitating conversations about race: staff views on the importance of accountability and trust in a student-led project

ABSTRACT Significant conversations provide a private and safe space for teachers to develop their thinking about teaching and learning. These conversations are important to academic development but may be limited by their privacy, although Roxå & Mårtensson noted that it was possible to create a culture which led to extended networks. This study explores how the concept of such conversations can be developed further to contribute to institutional change and the development of inclusive learning communities. Led by students of colour, a project, ‘The Big Change’, was designed to provide an empowering space for open and non-judgemental conversations between students and staff about the experiences of student of colour in a modern university. The paper explores the experiences of the staff (N = 15) who participated in online focus groups in which they explored their experiences of the project and the complexities of vulnerability and public discourses. Within these focus groups we provided a space for conversations in which trust and accountability were identified as key factors for meaningful change, particularly in a sensitive area of work such as anti-racism. This approach, based on student-led interventions plus safe conversations, provides a model for facilitating cultural change within higher education.

Using Film to Explore Ideas with University Students Around Intergenerational Social Connection

ABSTRACT Intergenerational connection (IC) has been posited to mitigate the effects of social isolation and loneliness in older people. Using the film Manawaroa: Still Going Strong, we explored nursing and health sciences’ students’ views about IC, considering themes of loneliness and social connectedness among older people in Aotearoa New Zealand. Thirteen students participated in four online focus groups and data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Four themes included: 1) benefits of IC, 2) barriers to IC, and 3) ways to promote IC and 4) broader discourses affecting IC, which describes underlying discourses around who is considered “old” and who is responsible for IC. Participants concurred IC was beneficial for both older and younger generations. We identified the need for IC education for healthcare professionals to challenge societal prejudices they have absorbed and indicated the importance of promoting IC to also increase social cohesion.