Past Projects:
Focus Groups

Four focus groups were held in the summer of 2004 with over 35 participants in the fields of art, intercultural consulting, and mediation. These focus groups were undertaken as a kickoff to the research initiative in order to understand what successful initiatives have taken place in the community, and also to get ideas from local practitioners on how CRANE’s research can be focused to have the greatest effect.  Two of the focus groups discussed intercultural issues in the Lower Mainland, and the two others conversed about creative approaches to conflict.

The focus groups also helped identify specific conflicts or tensions in the Lower Mainland that might benefit from a process that uses the creative arts to identify and address conflict. Groups approached this in different ways with some discussing various issues in great detail, and others approaching each topic by discussing hypothetical conflict scenarios. Both discussion formats helped identify opportunities, barriers, and areas of concern/caution for each different conflict.

Overall the focus groups were an important first step in CRANE’s research initiative, helping us build relationships with local practitioners and artists, and allowing us to tap into the knowledge that already exists in the community.

Please contact us at thecraneproject@gmail.com for a full-text copy of the Focus Group Summaries.