Research Methods in Tourism, Hospitality and Events Management

6.1 Introduction

During the length of a project, fieldwork is carried out at various times. The

nature of the fieldwork depends on the type of project and the methods of

data collection. If a survey is to be carried out at a tourist attraction, it will

be necessary to first gain an overview of the site, decide on suitable

interviewing points and talk to staff to gain an understanding of the patterns

of site use. There may also be fieldwork involved in observations of

visitors, either as part of the data collection process or to assist in

developing a sampling frame.

When it comes to the actual data collection itself, there is a variety of

aspects which need to be planned. This chapter is essentially divided into

two parts. The first part will look at the arrangements which are required for

data collection (sub-divided by the main methods of data collection). The

second part focuses on the nature and practice of undertaking interviews.

The chapter finishes with a review of the case study approach to illustrate

how you can use a mixed-method approach in this type of study.