This research concerns a complex area that has been little
researched to date. Therefore, an exploratory qualitative
approach that sought to provide insight into consumers’
experiences was indicated Qualitative research allows researchers to formulate
interpretations of the subjects under study and to give
representations of these interpretations in order to add to a
body of knowledge
in the form of four focus groups. Focus groups are particularly
appropriate for this type of research, as they provide
insight and depth into the attitude and behaviour intentions
of a group of participants.
A convenience sample of 26 students was drawn from
two UK universities. Student samples are well suited to
e-shopping research because they are computer literate
and
shoppers of tomorrow’The
profile of students is closer to that of the online customer
population than is the profile of the general population
and accepted as suitable subjects for studies on the use of
technological innovations . All participants
were experienced Internet users and e-shoppers. The
sample also represented younger age groupswhich is appropriate,
as young adults in particular regard the social aspect
of shopping as important and are major users of social networks.
The sample also included a wide variety of nationalities/ cultures, including Chinese , UK