A large group study is a qualitative research method based on the focus group technique. It strikes a balance between the collection of valid and statistically reliable information and getting to the underlying motivations behind residents’ expressed attitudes. Instead of the 8-12 participants typical of a focus group, the large group approach uses 20-50 participants, depending on budgetary and time constraints. Like focus groups, large groups are a superior technique for gaining an in-depth understanding of how people feel about a particular issue or topic because it allows for the exploration of why participants gave the answer they did. More than one study is completed to further assure the generation of enough data to support quantitative findings. At the same time, the small group "feel" needed for discussions and qualitative findings is largely retained with appropriate changes in discussion leadership to deal with the larger numbers.

This research technique also provides an opportunity to share information with participants, like detailed service descriptions, to provide them with a better understanding of an organization or topic. Participants are often better equipped to act as community ambassadors and share what they learned with other residents after participating in the large groups.