Assignment:
We recently lost an employee who used to craft our students' online surveys using as a tool to measure learning outcomes. As a result, and until we backfill the position, we are now only conducting Focus Group discussions. We use to do both; Focus Groups and online surveys.
I'm trying to reassure my boss that Focus Group data (Qualitative) will work until we can get our online survey process (Quantitative) back online.
Are surveys used to measure learning outcomes that much more reliable than Focus Group interviews? Again, until we backfill the position for the person who will craft our online student surveys, my position is for conducting Focus Groups. Granted, our Focus Group will consist of just 10 students; small sample. However, the total population for this particular course is only fifty students. Any idea how I should go about defending my position?
One important variable to consider before you answer this question is the students' demographics. Most of the students in this course are Latin-American officers from their countries Army, police etc. Culture is definitely a factor!