The ISU Extension and Outreach Lifelong Learning Online project was composed of 15 focus groups conducted by CSSM-SRS between fall 2023 and spring 2024, primarily centered on the online learning preferences of underserved Iowan adults. Participants included several hard-to-reach populations, including Iowans with less than a bachelor’s degree or making less than $50,000 combined household income, those qualifying as a racial or ethnic minority and other underrepresented groups such as those identifying as disabled or a non-binary gender.
CSSM-SRS aided in the development of project materials including a pre-survey, focus group facilitator’s guide, and recruitment materials (postcards and video advertisements to be used on Facebook). All project materials were translated into Spanish in order to include Spanish-speaking residents.
CSSM developed a three-pronged recruitment plan including postcard mailing to a purchased sample of Iowans, working with recruitment partners like Extension and Outreach staff and aid organizations in selected counties, and advertising statewide to low-income, lower-education Iowans on Facebook. CSSM-SRS continually adapted recruitment plans in order to target hard-to-reach populations.
Primary Investigators: Constance Beecher (Associate Professor of Education), Sarah Francis (Professor of Human Sciences), and Carol Heaverlo (Assistant Vice President for Extension and Outreach, Extension Operations) at Iowa State University
SRS Project Manager: Ellen McIntosh
Modes: Focus group, web survey