ABSTRACT

Research Methods for Sports Studies is a comprehensive, engaging and practical textbook that provides a grounding in qualitative and quantitative research for students studying programmes related to sport and physical activity. 

Leading the reader step-by-step through the entire research process, from identifying a research question and collecting and analysing data to writing and presenting the research report, the book is richly illustrated throughout with sport-related case studies and examples from around the world. Research Methods for Sports Studies is designed to be a complete and self-contained companion to any research methods course and contains a wealth of useful features, such as highlighted definitions of key terms, all-new case studies from active researchers and practical research exercises. Now in a revised and updated fourth edition, and in full colour for the first time, the book features expanded coverage of key topics such as online research, data visualisation, image analysis, source evaluation, mixed methods and the philosophical foundations of research. It also includes new material on the challenges of researching during a pandemic and reflects on the importance of diversity and inclusion, from feminist and indigenous methodologies to increased diversity of cases and researcher voices. 

This is an essential read for any student undertaking a dissertation or research project as part of their studies in sport, exercise and related fields, including sport management, sport development, the sociology of sport, sport marketing, sport-related tourism, sport coaching, physical education and other similar degrees. 

Additional online material is available for students and instructors, including web links, multiple-choice revision questions, PowerPoint slides and additional learning activities for use in and out of class.

chapter Chapter 1|15 pages

What is research?

chapter Chapter 2|20 pages

Research traditions in sport

chapter Chapter 3|10 pages

The research process

chapter Chapter 4|15 pages

Research questions, aims and objectives

chapter Chapter 5|25 pages

Reviewing the literature

chapter Chapter 6|23 pages

Theories, concepts and variables

chapter Chapter 7|30 pages

Research designs and research ethics

chapter Chapter 8|28 pages

Collecting data I: The questionnaire survey

chapter Chapter 9|25 pages

Collecting data II: Interviews

chapter Chapter 11|17 pages

Collecting data IV: Ethnographic research in sport

chapter Chapter 12|11 pages

Online sport research

chapter Chapter 13|29 pages

Analysing data I: Quantitative data analysis

chapter Chapter 14|15 pages

Analysing data II: Qualitative data analysis

chapter Chapter 15|25 pages

Writing the research report

chapter Chapter 16|15 pages

Practical issues