Doing Events Research: From Theory to Practice

Events Management is a rapidly expanding discipline with growing student numbers however currently there are no specifically focused Research Methods texts available to serve this growing cohort. Fulfilling the need for a relevant book which reflects the unique characteristics of research in the field this title provides students with innovative ideas and inspiration to undertake their own research work and informs them of the wide diversity of research strategies and contexts that are available.

Content is written from a researcher’s point of view and provides a step by step guide to accomplishing a project or dissertation in the field of events. The reader is guided right from the beginning in selecting a topic for research, identifying aims, objectives and questions and then determining which research methods are the most appropriate and practical. They are then shown how to analyze and interpret their data as well as writing up the project.

Whilst many current texts are skewed either towards qualitative or quantitative methods, Doing Events Research provides a balanced coverage of both. It incorporates not only traditional research methods, but also contemporary techniques such as using social networking websites and Google analytics. Specific research case studies are integrated to make applications accessible to events students and show the unique characteristics of researching in this field. A range of useful learning aids spur critical thinking and further students’ knowledge.

This book is visually accessible and whilst written in an engaging style nonetheless maintains academic rigor grounded in research and scholarship. This is essential reading for all events students.

Dorothy Fox, PhD is a Lecturer in Events Management in the School of Tourism at Bournemouth University and has a background of mixed methods research. She has experience of supervising both undergraduate and postgraduate dissertations and leads the teaching of both the research methods module and the dissertation module for events management students.

Mary Beth Gouthro, PhD is Lecturer for BA (Hons) in Events Management Bournemouth University, Bournemouth. She also oversees Graduate and Professional Engagement for the Events & Leisure academic group at the University.  Mary Beth’s research interests in events span the event experience, volunteering in events and event evaluation.  Mary Beth draws from a cross section of professional experience that includes working with charities, corporate organisations and government. She is a member of the International Special Events Society (ISES) and Association for Event Management Educators (AEME). 

Yeganeh Morakabati, PhD is a Tourism Risk Analyst (for the Middle East) and Research Methods Specialist. She is currently Senior Lecturer in the School of Tourism at Bournemouth University. She lectures and supervises undergraduate and postgraduate students in research methodology and marketing.

John Brackstone, BSc has undertaken and managed a wide variety of commercially focussed event and tourism research projects, including very large visitor surveys and event impact studies. John has managed research for event organisers at a national, regional and local level and advises and supports many organisations in their event research. He has a special interest in the practical applications of e-research.