Delphi Technique

Summary

The Delphi technique is a qualitative research method used to gather consensus from subject matter experts through iterative questionnaires. This structured process involves selecting a panel of experts, generating initial ideas, and analyzing responses across multiple rounds. Each round refines the questions based on prior feedback, fostering deeper insights into complex issues. While the technique allows for remote participation and anonymity, it can be slow and may struggle with participant engagement. Ultimately, the Delphi technique aids in clarifying opinions and enhancing decision-making in psychology and other fields.

Takeaways

• 📝 The Delphi technique is a qualitative research method that involves a series of questionnaires to achieve consensus among experts.
• 🔄 It is an iterative process, meaning it includes multiple rounds of questioning to refine opinions and gather insights.
• 👥 Participants, known as panelists, are carefully selected for their expertise in the relevant topic area.
• 💡 The first stage involves generating ideas through open-ended questions to capture a broad understanding of expert views.
• 📊 Subsequent rounds often use quantitative survey formats, such as Likert scales, to delve deeper into specific issues.
• 🔍 An evaluation phase allows panelists to reconsider their original responses based on group feedback.
• 📅 The number of rounds can vary, allowing for further questioning if consensus is not reached.
• 🌐 One advantage is that it enables virtual participation, so experts can be located anywhere in the world.
• 🤫 Panelists can participate anonymously, reducing the potential for groupthink and bias.
• ⏳ The process can be slow and time-consuming, as it relies on individual responses and may require multiple rounds for agreement.

Q & A

What is the Delphi technique?

The Delphi technique is an iterative qualitative research method used to achieve consensus among subject matter experts through a series of questionnaires.

How does the Delphi technique ensure expert input?

It uses a panel of specially selected participants known for their expertise in a specific topic to provide insights through questionnaires.

What are the key characteristics of the Delphi technique?

Key characteristics include the use of expert panels, multiple rounds of questionnaires, an initial idea generation phase, and a focus on achieving consensus.

What is the initial phase of the Delphi technique?

The initial phase, known as the preparation phase, involves defining the topic and establishing the questions to ensure that experts understand the problem they are addressing.

What types of questions are typically included in the first questionnaire?

The first questionnaire usually consists of open-ended questions that invite panelists to brainstorm and provide a broad understanding of their views.

What happens after the first round of questionnaires?

Responses from the first round are collated and summarized, leading to the creation of a subsequent quantitative questionnaire aimed at delving deeper into the topic.

How does the Delphi technique facilitate consensus?

Panelists are provided with feedback from previous rounds, allowing them to reconsider their responses in light of the group's collective opinions, which promotes consensus.

What are the advantages of using the Delphi technique?

Advantages include enabling virtual meetings, allowing anonymous participation, and minimizing group influence, as each panelist responds independently.

What are the potential drawbacks of the Delphi technique?

The Delphi technique can be slow and time-consuming, as it may take multiple rounds to reach consensus, and participation may be hindered if panelists see no personal benefit.

What is the ultimate goal of the Delphi technique?

The ultimate goal is to clarify issues, expand on topics, and reach a consensus among the expert panelists through iterative feedback and discussion.