Research Methods for Sport Management

Research methods courses have become a compulsory component of most degree programs in sport management. This is the first introductory research methods textbook to focus exclusively on sport management. Through the use of examples, cases and data taken from the real world of sport management it opens up a traditionally dry area of study, helping the student to understand the vital importance of sound methodology in their studies and subsequent professional practice.

The book covers the full range of quantitative and qualitative methods across the whole span of the research process, from research design and the literature review to data analysis and report writing. Every chapter contains a range of useful features to aid student learning, including summaries, discussion questions and guides to further resources, as well as examples drawn from contemporary sport around the world. Research Methods for Sport Management is an essential course text for all sport management students and an invaluable reference for any sport management professional involved in operational research.

Allan Edwards is a Faculty member of Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Australia and researcher in the Centre for Tourism, Sport and Service Innovation. He has extensive sport industry management experience and has conducted research and consultancy for national and international sport agencies as well as government authorities. Dr Edwards was previously Regional Secretary of the Oceania region and Executive Board Member for the International Council for Health and Physical Education – Sport and Dance (ICHPER-SD) and International Chair of the Sport Management curriculum committee.

James Skinner is a Professor in the School of Education and Professional Studies, Griffith University. His research focuses on sport and social and cultural change, drugs in sport, sport and educational policy, leadership in sport and education and globalisation studies. He also has a strong interest in the development and application of qualitative and interpretive research designs in sport and has published in this area.

Part A: Understanding Research in Sport Management 1. Introduction to Sport Management Research 2. Research Paradigms and Methodology 3. Research Process 4. Research Writing and Presentation 5. Reflective Sport Management Research Part B: Research Methods, Data Collection and Sampling 6. Quantitative Research Methods 7. Qualitative Research Methods 8. Mixed Research Methods 9. Methods of Collecting Primary and Secondary Data 10. Sampling Procedures 11. Fieldwork Part C: Analysis and Interpretation of Data 12. Data Analysis for Quantitative Research 13. Data Analysis for Qualitative research 14. Data Analysis for Mixed Method Research 15. Presentation and Interpretation of Data 16. Credibility of Research 17. Finalising the Research