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The Nominal Group Technique (NGT) is an evaluation tool that uses "semi-quantitative, rank-ordered" data. The data is collected from learner perceptions of a course (Dobbie, Rhodes, Tysinger, & Freeman (2004).
The Delphi Method is a research approach that uses an iterative and controlled feedback system (Skulmoski, Hartman, & Krahn, 2007). The authors detail 11 steps in a typical Delphi research process:
- Develop the research question.
- Design the research.
- Select a research sample.
- Initial questionnaire.
- Pilot study.
- Release initial questionnaire results.
- Questionnaire round two.
- Release round two results.
- Questionnaire round three.
- Release round three results.
- Verify, generalize, and document research results.
Social. Both research approaches/techniques require input from people. People have biases, agendas, and other factors that can impact data collection validity.
Economical. Research involving human subjects requires time and space. Time is needed of the researchers and human subjects involved. Space refers to the physical facility required for conducting research. Both time and space cost money.
Like most research methodologies, the Delphi Method has flexibility and several different permutations. Key to this method is iterative questionnaires and controlled feedback. The NGT tool is less iterative but more rigorous regarding statistical data analysis.
References:
Dobbie, A., Rhodes, M., Tysinger, J., & Freeman, J. (2004). Using a Modified Nominal Group Technique as a Curriculum Evaluation Tool. Retrieved August 8, 2012 from http://www.stfm.org/fmhub/fm2004/June/Alison402.pdf
Skulmoski, G., Hartman, F., & Krahn, J. (2007). The Delphi Method for Graduate Research. Retrieved August 8, 2012 from http://jite.org/documents/Vol6/JITEv6p001-021Skulmoski212.pdf
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