Researching Sport Events
Document Type
Other
Publication Date
2024
Abstract
As sport studies continue to grow, research into sport events has emerged as its own pillar within this multifaceted area of enquiry. In this vein, sport event research has gained significant popularity among the social and biophysical sciences. Although there is much meaningful scholarly work on sport events, there are elements of the research process that warrant further discussion. Therefore, the purpose of this entry is to discuss key issues to consider when studying the social and biophysical aspects of sport event research. This objective is met by first providing insight on the research approaches (i.e. quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods) and common methods that sport event scholars select. We highlight the need for more multi-case studies and mixed method approaches. We also note the challenges that sport event researchers face when determining their study’s population or case(s) and provide strategies to facilitate the accessing and retaining of participants and key informants. Ethical considerations when conducting research are discussed by offering suggestions pertaining to research confidentiality, vulnerable populations, and securing research data. We also highlight the importance of rigour from the social and biophysical science perspectives. Finally, suggestions for future research in the sport event field conclude this entry, such as conducting additional research on sport events that take place in developing countries and biophysical scholars considering the use of new technologies to collect data. Ongoing dialogue is advantageous for sport event scholars and practitioners as it enables this field to continue to develop.
DOI
10.4324/9780367766924-RESS51-1
Recommended Citation
Hoff, K., Leopkey, B. (2024). Researching sport events. Routledge.
