The best way to learn something is to practice it. Don't just read about the principles of focus groups, put them into practice!

1. Find a small group of 3 to 4 people (ideally with friends or family).
2. Choose a topic that you and your family or friends have some familiarity with (suggestions: a political issue, local news, unhealthy food, or public transportation). formulate a guiding skeleton for the focus group and then write two to three questions along with their followups.
3. Facilitate the mini focus group for at least 10 minutes. Practice introducing the topic and leading the group to best capitalize on your overall purpose.
4. Discuss what you learned here with your colleagues. What would you differently if you are to facilitate a 'real' focus group in the future?