- 61 2 95145100
Simon Darcy
University of Technology Sydney, UTS Business School, Faculty Member
- Sporting Events, Business, Tourism Management, Sustainable Tourism, Tourism Planning and Policy, Sports Management, and 31 moreSport Policy, Web Accessibility, Accessibility and universal design (Architecture), Sport and Disability, Diversity & Inclusion, Event Management, Disability Studies, Universal Design and Inclusion, Critical Disability Studies, Disability Theory, Accessible Tourism, Tourism Studies, Accessibility, Paralympics, Recreation & Leisure Studies, Sport, Olympics and Olympism, Events management, Community Events and Festivals, Tourist Behavior, Sport and Event Tourism, Mega Events, Sociology of Tourism, Intersectionality and Social Inequality, Ableism and Ability Studies, Third Sector, Experience Design, Urban Tourism, Tourism mobilities, Sociology of Sport, and Sports Mega Eventsedit
- Simon Darcy is a Professor in Events, Sport and Tourism at the UTS Business School, University of Technology Sydney. ... moreSimon Darcy is a Professor in Events, Sport and Tourism at the UTS Business School, University of Technology Sydney. He is also Co-Director of the UTS’ Cosmopolitan Civil Societies Research Centre. Simon is an interdisciplinary researcher with expertise in developing inclusive organisational approaches to diversity groups. His research has spanned a variety of contexts including sport, tourism, events, volunteers, transport, the built environment and disability services. Simon has held grants with the Australian Research Council, Sustainable Tourism Cooperative Research Centre, the United Nations ESCAP, and has carried out research studies for all levels of government and the private sector. Over the last decade, his body of work on accessible tourism has gained national and international recognition. Simon is actively involved in changing government and industry practice through implementing the outcomes of his research. Since incurring a spinal injury in 1983 Simon is a power wheelchair user and passionately believes in the rights of all people to fully participate in all aspects of community life.
Affiliations
Associate Professor, School of Leisure, Sport & Tourism
Member, ACEM Australian Centre for Event Management
Core Member, Cosmopolitan Civil Societies Research Centre
Associate Member, Centre for Health Technologiesedit
More and more tourist destinations all over Europe and the world have chosen the Design for All approach for optimising the available services. The outcomes seem to be positive enough to encourage them to follow that approach further as... more
More and more tourist destinations all over Europe and the world have chosen the Design for All approach for optimising the available services. The outcomes seem to be positive enough to encourage them to follow that approach further as described in the case studies presented in ECA 2017.
The 10 case studies are from Belgium, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Sweden, Spain and Australia.
The 10 case studies are from Belgium, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Sweden, Spain and Australia.
Research Interests:
his book critically examines the planning, management, and operations of the world’s premier event for Para sport athletes. Noting a lack of research into how these games are planned and managed, the authors of this contributed volume... more
his book critically examines the planning, management, and operations of the world’s premier event for Para sport athletes. Noting a lack of research into how these games are planned and managed, the authors of this contributed volume discuss how the Paralympics are essentially different to the Olympics and what this means for their management. Managing the Paralympics explores how the organizers and connected stakeholders effectively organize and deliver the Paralympics, taking into account what has been learned from previous events. Including emergent models of best practice from event management, project management and sport management literature, the book gives an insight into the planning of one of the world’s biggest sporting events that encompasses ten impairment types and multiple sport classes within sports.
http://www.palgrave.com/de/book/9781137435200#aboutBook
http://www.palgrave.com/de/book/9781137435200#aboutBook
Research Interests: Disability Studies, Critical Disability Studies, Accessibility, Governance, Sports Management, and 14 moreOlympics and Olympism, Diversity & Inclusion, Accessibility and universal design (Architecture), Sports Development, Disability, Sport, Disability Rights, Paralympics, Social Exclusion and Inclusion, Development of Sports Stadiums, Paralympics and Inclusivity, Public Policy, Rio 2016 Paralympics, and International Paralympic committee
Research can be a challenging but rewarding activity. All degree-level students studying sport, and all effective professionals working in the sport sector need to have a sound understanding of research methods and how to critically... more
Research can be a challenging but rewarding activity. All degree-level students studying sport, and all effective professionals working in the sport sector need to have a sound understanding of research methods and how to critically interpret research findings. This broad-ranging, in-depth and practical textbook introduces research methods for students on sport-related degree courses, outlining the knowledge and practical skills needed to undertake meaningful research and to become a knowledgeable consumer of the research of others.
Research Interests:
"Australian Leisure 4e provides an introduction to and analysis of a broadly defined concept of leisure. It integrates Australian and international knowledge so that the book is an Australian interpretation, based largely on local... more
"Australian Leisure 4e provides an introduction to and analysis of a broadly defined concept of leisure. It integrates Australian and international knowledge so that the book is an Australian interpretation, based largely on local sources, but which engages with relevant international research and theory. This edition has been extensively reviewed and updated and includes new chapters on social networks, global cultures and events.
Leisure is not just sport, or the arts, or outdoor recreation, it is all these things and more, including tourism, gambling, hobbies, television watching, entertainment, play and doing nothing in particular.
The purpose of the text is to illuminate leisure and its place in past, present and future Australian society. The text is designed to lead students into the subject and provide pointers to more detailed study, through discussion questions and guides to further reading."
Preface
Contributors
PART I INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
1. This thing called leisure
2. Historical perspectives
PART II STUDYING LEISURE
3. Studying leisure
4. Contemporary patterns of Australian leisure
5. Providers in the mixed economy of leisure
PART III LEISURE SECTORS AND FORMS
6. At home at leisure
7. Social media and leisure
8. Arts and culture
9. Sport
10. Outdoor recreation
11. Tourism
12. Special events
13. Leisure and health
14. ‘Deviant’ leisure
PART IV LEISURE AND DIVERSITY
15. Human rights, disability and leisure
16. Leisure and Aboriginal culture from Federation
17. Global cultures and ethnicity
18. Gender and sexuality
19. Leisure, youth and ageing
PART V LEISURE AND THE FUTURE
20. Working in leisure
21. Leisure and the future
Index
Leisure is not just sport, or the arts, or outdoor recreation, it is all these things and more, including tourism, gambling, hobbies, television watching, entertainment, play and doing nothing in particular.
The purpose of the text is to illuminate leisure and its place in past, present and future Australian society. The text is designed to lead students into the subject and provide pointers to more detailed study, through discussion questions and guides to further reading."
Preface
Contributors
PART I INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
1. This thing called leisure
2. Historical perspectives
PART II STUDYING LEISURE
3. Studying leisure
4. Contemporary patterns of Australian leisure
5. Providers in the mixed economy of leisure
PART III LEISURE SECTORS AND FORMS
6. At home at leisure
7. Social media and leisure
8. Arts and culture
9. Sport
10. Outdoor recreation
11. Tourism
12. Special events
13. Leisure and health
14. ‘Deviant’ leisure
PART IV LEISURE AND DIVERSITY
15. Human rights, disability and leisure
16. Leisure and Aboriginal culture from Federation
17. Global cultures and ethnicity
18. Gender and sexuality
19. Leisure, youth and ageing
PART V LEISURE AND THE FUTURE
20. Working in leisure
21. Leisure and the future
Index
Research Interests: History, Cultural Studies, Gender Studies, Political Economy, Tourism Studies, and 24 moreIndigenous or Aboriginal Studies, Performing Arts, Health Promotion, Social Sciences, Youth Studies, Research Methodology, Human Rights, Popular Culture, Digital Media, Sociology of Crime and Deviance, Event Management, Mega Events As Catalysts For Regeneration, Recreation & Leisure Studies, Outdoor Recreation, Gender and Sexuality, Race and Ethnicity, Aging, Social Media, Events management, Leisure, Australian History, Physical Education, Sport, and Exercise Science
"Summary Inclusion disability, an ageing population and tourism are increasingly important areas of study due to their implications for both tourism demand and supply. This book therefore sets out to explore and document the current... more
"Summary
Inclusion disability, an ageing population and tourism are increasingly important areas of study due to their implications for both tourism demand and supply. This book therefore sets out to explore and document the current theoretical approaches, foundations and issues in the study of accessible tourism. In drawing together the contributions to this volume the editors have applied broader social constructionist approaches to understanding the accessible tourism phenomena. Accessible tourism, as with any area of academic study is an evolving field of academic research and industry practice. As with other areas of tourism, the field is multidisciplinary, and is influenced by various disciplines including geography, disability studies, economics, public policy, psychology and marketing.
Key Features:
- First book to address accessible tourism and cover inclusion, disability, ageing population, inclusive design and tourism
- Explores and documents the current theoretical approaches, foundations and issues in the study of accessible tourism
- Adopts a multidisciplinary approach with influences from geography, disability studies, economics, public policy, psychology, social psychology, organisational management, postmodern cultural studies, marketing, architecture and international development
Review:
As one would expect from two scholars at the height of their academic abilities, Dimitrios Buhalis and Simon Darcy have delivered a hugely timely and much needed contribution to the under-served area of accessible tourism. Harnessing the best conceptual developments on the topic, Accessible Tourism is a scholarly yet hugely readable collection and readily communicates the various contributors’ passion for and command of their subject. This collection is a must have text for anyone engaged in the theory, practice and policy of accessible tourism and will be essential reading on undergraduate and postgraduate courses across a range of disciplines and fields. I cannot speak highly enough of this endeavour and I’m sure it will take accessible tourism and universal design debates into the mainstream of academic enquiry and industry practice.
Professor Nigel Morgan, The Welsh Centre for Tourism Research, University of Wales Institute, Cardiff
Author Biographies:
Dimitrios Buhalis is an innovative tourism and hospitality researcher, teacher and adviser who conceptualises technology- enabled strategic management and marketing solutions on a global scale. He is Established Chair in Tourism and Deputy Director of the International Centre for Tourism and Hospitality Research (ICTHR) at the School of Services Management, Bournemouth University and Professorial Observer at the Bournemouth University Senate.
Simon Darcy is an experienced mixed methods researcher, lecturer and mentor who seeks to bring about strategic organisational change for diversity groups. His expertise in environmental planning, access auditing and operational planning has been used across the events, sport and tourism sectors to effect change for inclusive customer and employee practices. He is an Associate Professor and Research Director in the University of Technology Sydney's Business School where he is a core member of the Cosmopolitan Civil Societies research strength.
Readership Level:
Postgraduate, Research / Professional, Undergraduate"
Inclusion disability, an ageing population and tourism are increasingly important areas of study due to their implications for both tourism demand and supply. This book therefore sets out to explore and document the current theoretical approaches, foundations and issues in the study of accessible tourism. In drawing together the contributions to this volume the editors have applied broader social constructionist approaches to understanding the accessible tourism phenomena. Accessible tourism, as with any area of academic study is an evolving field of academic research and industry practice. As with other areas of tourism, the field is multidisciplinary, and is influenced by various disciplines including geography, disability studies, economics, public policy, psychology and marketing.
Key Features:
- First book to address accessible tourism and cover inclusion, disability, ageing population, inclusive design and tourism
- Explores and documents the current theoretical approaches, foundations and issues in the study of accessible tourism
- Adopts a multidisciplinary approach with influences from geography, disability studies, economics, public policy, psychology, social psychology, organisational management, postmodern cultural studies, marketing, architecture and international development
Review:
As one would expect from two scholars at the height of their academic abilities, Dimitrios Buhalis and Simon Darcy have delivered a hugely timely and much needed contribution to the under-served area of accessible tourism. Harnessing the best conceptual developments on the topic, Accessible Tourism is a scholarly yet hugely readable collection and readily communicates the various contributors’ passion for and command of their subject. This collection is a must have text for anyone engaged in the theory, practice and policy of accessible tourism and will be essential reading on undergraduate and postgraduate courses across a range of disciplines and fields. I cannot speak highly enough of this endeavour and I’m sure it will take accessible tourism and universal design debates into the mainstream of academic enquiry and industry practice.
Professor Nigel Morgan, The Welsh Centre for Tourism Research, University of Wales Institute, Cardiff
Author Biographies:
Dimitrios Buhalis is an innovative tourism and hospitality researcher, teacher and adviser who conceptualises technology- enabled strategic management and marketing solutions on a global scale. He is Established Chair in Tourism and Deputy Director of the International Centre for Tourism and Hospitality Research (ICTHR) at the School of Services Management, Bournemouth University and Professorial Observer at the Bournemouth University Senate.
Simon Darcy is an experienced mixed methods researcher, lecturer and mentor who seeks to bring about strategic organisational change for diversity groups. His expertise in environmental planning, access auditing and operational planning has been used across the events, sport and tourism sectors to effect change for inclusive customer and employee practices. He is an Associate Professor and Research Director in the University of Technology Sydney's Business School where he is a core member of the Cosmopolitan Civil Societies research strength.
Readership Level:
Postgraduate, Research / Professional, Undergraduate"
Research Interests:
"Summary This book brings together global expertise in planning, design and management to inform and stimulate providers of travel, transport, accommodation, leisure and tourism services to serve guests with disabilities, seniors and the... more
"Summary
This book brings together global expertise in planning, design and management to inform and stimulate providers of travel, transport, accommodation, leisure and tourism services to serve guests with disabilities, seniors and the wider markets that require good accessibility. Selected country reports, detailed case studies and technical guidance from leading experts provide an essential resource for academics and practitioners.
Key features
- Provides Best Practice in Accessible Tourism from a global pespective - Explores a range of approaches to delivering accessible tourism from the perspectives of policy-making, professional and stakeholder networking, market diversity, destination management and the experience economy; - Contains chapters by leading experts with state-of-the-art guidance for the development of accessible tourism infrastructure, transport and services; - Draws together examples of best practice encompassing policies, projects and partnerships in and between the public, private and NGO sewctors , demonstrating the added value of holistic, evidence-based solutions.
Review:
In 25 chapters, Best Practice in Accessible Tourism provides a ‘state-of-the-art” assessment of both theory and practice. This book establishes a new field of study and provides the benchmark against which other contributions will be judged. It integrates the work of all the key players and should be read by academics, managers and government policy makers.
Noel Scott, University of Queensland, Australia
The editors have assembled an excellent compilation of thought provoking, cutting edge international chapters on "Best Practice in Accessible Tourism". The text provides important insights into current practices and policies, but also critically reflects on what more needs to be done. This timely work is a must read for practitioners, policy makers and academics.
David J. Telfer, Brock University, Canada
Author Biography:
Professor Dimitrios Buhalis is a Strategic Management and Marketing expert with specialisation in Technology and Tourism at Bournemouth University. Professor Buhalis is leading eTourism research and he is a Fellow of the International Academy for the Study of Tourism and the President of the International Federation for Information Technologies in Travel and Tourism (IFITT).; Dr
Simon Darcy is an Associate Professor in Events, Sport and Tourism at the UTS Business School - University of Technology, Sydney. Simon’s research and teaching expertise is in sport, tourism and diversity management. He currently holds research grants investigating organisational responses to accessible tourism, sports management practices and protected area visitor management systems.;
Ivor Ambrose is the Managing Director and co-founder of ENAT, the European Network for Accessible Tourism. He has worked for over 30 years as a researcher, project manager, development and policy advisor in the fields of building design and evaluation, public housing, accessibility and assistive technologies for disabled and elderly people, accessible tourism and information systems.
Readership Level:
Postgraduate, Research / Professional, Undergraduate
"
This book brings together global expertise in planning, design and management to inform and stimulate providers of travel, transport, accommodation, leisure and tourism services to serve guests with disabilities, seniors and the wider markets that require good accessibility. Selected country reports, detailed case studies and technical guidance from leading experts provide an essential resource for academics and practitioners.
Key features
- Provides Best Practice in Accessible Tourism from a global pespective - Explores a range of approaches to delivering accessible tourism from the perspectives of policy-making, professional and stakeholder networking, market diversity, destination management and the experience economy; - Contains chapters by leading experts with state-of-the-art guidance for the development of accessible tourism infrastructure, transport and services; - Draws together examples of best practice encompassing policies, projects and partnerships in and between the public, private and NGO sewctors , demonstrating the added value of holistic, evidence-based solutions.
Review:
In 25 chapters, Best Practice in Accessible Tourism provides a ‘state-of-the-art” assessment of both theory and practice. This book establishes a new field of study and provides the benchmark against which other contributions will be judged. It integrates the work of all the key players and should be read by academics, managers and government policy makers.
Noel Scott, University of Queensland, Australia
The editors have assembled an excellent compilation of thought provoking, cutting edge international chapters on "Best Practice in Accessible Tourism". The text provides important insights into current practices and policies, but also critically reflects on what more needs to be done. This timely work is a must read for practitioners, policy makers and academics.
David J. Telfer, Brock University, Canada
Author Biography:
Professor Dimitrios Buhalis is a Strategic Management and Marketing expert with specialisation in Technology and Tourism at Bournemouth University. Professor Buhalis is leading eTourism research and he is a Fellow of the International Academy for the Study of Tourism and the President of the International Federation for Information Technologies in Travel and Tourism (IFITT).; Dr
Simon Darcy is an Associate Professor in Events, Sport and Tourism at the UTS Business School - University of Technology, Sydney. Simon’s research and teaching expertise is in sport, tourism and diversity management. He currently holds research grants investigating organisational responses to accessible tourism, sports management practices and protected area visitor management systems.;
Ivor Ambrose is the Managing Director and co-founder of ENAT, the European Network for Accessible Tourism. He has worked for over 30 years as a researcher, project manager, development and policy advisor in the fields of building design and evaluation, public housing, accessibility and assistive technologies for disabled and elderly people, accessible tourism and information systems.
Readership Level:
Postgraduate, Research / Professional, Undergraduate
"
Research Interests: Tourism Studies, Tourism Marketing, Tourism Management, Disability Studies, Accessibility, and 16 moreDiversity, Hospitality Management, Recreation & Leisure Studies, International Human Rights Law, Discrimination, Antidiscrimination Law, Sustainable Tourism, Diversity & Inclusion, International Refugee Law, Minority Rights, Tourism, Accessible Tourism, Turismo, Equality and Non Discrimination, Hotelaria, and The Rights of Persons With Disabilities
BENCHMARK GAMES: The Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games Richard Cashman and Simon Darcy With a Foreword by Karen Tighe Published in conjunction with the Australian Centre for Olympic Studies Walla Walla Press July 2008 Hardback, illustrations,... more
BENCHMARK GAMES:
The Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games
Richard Cashman and Simon Darcy
With a Foreword by Karen Tighe
Published in conjunction with the Australian Centre for Olympic Studies
Walla Walla Press July 2008
Hardback, illustrations, notes, bibliography, index
ISBN: 978-1-876718-05-3
Benchmark Games is unique as there has been no previous study of an individual Paralympic Games. The book documents and analyses the new benchmarks that were set at the time of the successful Sydney Paralympic Games. Benchmark Games explores many questions about the appeal of the Games to the community and disability sport and the place of the disability community in Australian life.
This book gives a wonderful insight into the background and running of the Sydney Paralympic Games and the legacy it has left (Karen Tighe, Foreword).
CHAPTERS
PART 1: BECHMARKS BEFORE 2000
1. Introduction (Richard Cashman and Simon Darcy)
2. The evolution of the Paralympic Games (Ian Brittain)
3. Paralympic benchmarks before 2000 (Richard Cashman)
PART 2: THE SYDNEY 2000 PARALYMPIC GAMES
4. The benchmark Games (Richard Cashman)
5. Paralympic planning (Simon Darcy)
6. Media and representation (Richard Cashman and Dominique Tremblay)
7. Community (Richard Cashman and Alana Thomson)
8. The delivery of sport (Richard Cashman)
9. Infrastructure (Simon Darcy)
10. The athletes village (Tony Sainsbury)
11. The inclusion and exclusion of athletes with an intellectual disability (Anne Jobling, Ian Jobling and Hayley Fitzgerald)
PART 3: LEGACY
12. Impacts—national and international impacts (Simon Darcy and Richard Cashman)
13. Paralympic research agendas (Simon Darcy and Richard Cashman)
Epilogue
The Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games
Richard Cashman and Simon Darcy
With a Foreword by Karen Tighe
Published in conjunction with the Australian Centre for Olympic Studies
Walla Walla Press July 2008
Hardback, illustrations, notes, bibliography, index
ISBN: 978-1-876718-05-3
Benchmark Games is unique as there has been no previous study of an individual Paralympic Games. The book documents and analyses the new benchmarks that were set at the time of the successful Sydney Paralympic Games. Benchmark Games explores many questions about the appeal of the Games to the community and disability sport and the place of the disability community in Australian life.
This book gives a wonderful insight into the background and running of the Sydney Paralympic Games and the legacy it has left (Karen Tighe, Foreword).
CHAPTERS
PART 1: BECHMARKS BEFORE 2000
1. Introduction (Richard Cashman and Simon Darcy)
2. The evolution of the Paralympic Games (Ian Brittain)
3. Paralympic benchmarks before 2000 (Richard Cashman)
PART 2: THE SYDNEY 2000 PARALYMPIC GAMES
4. The benchmark Games (Richard Cashman)
5. Paralympic planning (Simon Darcy)
6. Media and representation (Richard Cashman and Dominique Tremblay)
7. Community (Richard Cashman and Alana Thomson)
8. The delivery of sport (Richard Cashman)
9. Infrastructure (Simon Darcy)
10. The athletes village (Tony Sainsbury)
11. The inclusion and exclusion of athletes with an intellectual disability (Anne Jobling, Ian Jobling and Hayley Fitzgerald)
PART 3: LEGACY
12. Impacts—national and international impacts (Simon Darcy and Richard Cashman)
13. Paralympic research agendas (Simon Darcy and Richard Cashman)
Epilogue
Research Interests:
A study was conducted into the tourism patterns and experiences of people with physical disabilities in Australia. The research provides the basis for the first comprehensive quantitative study of the tourism patterns and experiences of... more
A study was conducted into the tourism patterns and experiences of people with physical disabilities in Australia. The research provides the basis for the first comprehensive quantitative study of the tourism patterns and experiences of people with physical disabilities in Australia. The methodology was a questionnaire based self completed postal survey conducted with the cooperation, input and design of people with physical disabilities and organisations who represent people with physical disabilities. The questionnaire was mailed to 8500 members of these organisations with over 2700 completed questionnaires returned. The questionnaire sought information about: domestic, overseas and day trip patterns; satisfaction with current level of travel; constraints and specific requirements for travel; reasons for travel and non travel; and demographic information. The report provides a comprehensive examination of the findings and suggest recommendations to improve the travel experiences of people with disabilities in Australia.
Research Interests:
Purpose: To analyze the accessibility of official national tourism organization websites of countries around the world, in order to establish possible common patterns and rankings of those with exemplary practice through to those with the... more
Purpose: To analyze the accessibility of official national tourism organization websites of countries around the world, in order to establish possible common patterns and rankings of those with exemplary practice through to those with the highest number of issues. The purpose for undertaking such an analysis is to provide a quasi-indicator of inclusive organizational practice for online accessibility for both destination managers and their accessible tourism consumers – domestic and overseas people with disability visiting the websites.
Method: The official tourism websites of 210 countries included in the latest World Tourism Organization report were analyzed. A website accessibility evaluation tool (website accessible test) was used in the analysis, according to AA and AAA levels of conformance to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 requirements.
Results: Different patterns compliance to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 were established for the clusters, which were rather similar for both AA and AAA conformance levels. The main issues in the least accessible websites were also identified, mainly focused on the following guidelines: navigable, compatible, adaptability, text alternatives and also referred to other assistive technologies.
Conclusions: Once the main issues were established several alternatives are suggested to address them, such as implementing more prescriptive laws and regulations, complying with mandatory benchmark standards and/or having external agencies audit website designs. However, in addition to using benchmark standards, efforts to improve this situation should also be made by programmers, who should also rely on preexistent experiences and develop more dynamic knowledge. This knowledge may include text alternatives for any nontext content; creation of content that can be presented in different ways without losing information; provide ways to help users navigate, find content, determine where they are and navigate websites to maximize compatibility with assistive technologies and user agents.
Implications for rehabilitation
Access to information – in this case, online information – is an important factor in the process of rehabilitation for people with disability and those supporting them.
Failure to apply homogeneous criteria for website accessibility around the world can hamper access to information by people with disabilities.
Travel planning requires access to mainstream tourist distribution networks where online inclusive practice is a precursor to information searching.
Documents for destination managers and programmers the main problems of accessibility to websites and examples of models or solutions to follow and not.
Establish the main inclusive website design criteria on which to focus on improving the access of people with disabilities to websites (e.g., text alternatives, content presented in different ways, navigating and improving compatibility with assistive technologies etc.).
Method: The official tourism websites of 210 countries included in the latest World Tourism Organization report were analyzed. A website accessibility evaluation tool (website accessible test) was used in the analysis, according to AA and AAA levels of conformance to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 requirements.
Results: Different patterns compliance to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 were established for the clusters, which were rather similar for both AA and AAA conformance levels. The main issues in the least accessible websites were also identified, mainly focused on the following guidelines: navigable, compatible, adaptability, text alternatives and also referred to other assistive technologies.
Conclusions: Once the main issues were established several alternatives are suggested to address them, such as implementing more prescriptive laws and regulations, complying with mandatory benchmark standards and/or having external agencies audit website designs. However, in addition to using benchmark standards, efforts to improve this situation should also be made by programmers, who should also rely on preexistent experiences and develop more dynamic knowledge. This knowledge may include text alternatives for any nontext content; creation of content that can be presented in different ways without losing information; provide ways to help users navigate, find content, determine where they are and navigate websites to maximize compatibility with assistive technologies and user agents.
Implications for rehabilitation
Access to information – in this case, online information – is an important factor in the process of rehabilitation for people with disability and those supporting them.
Failure to apply homogeneous criteria for website accessibility around the world can hamper access to information by people with disabilities.
Travel planning requires access to mainstream tourist distribution networks where online inclusive practice is a precursor to information searching.
Documents for destination managers and programmers the main problems of accessibility to websites and examples of models or solutions to follow and not.
Establish the main inclusive website design criteria on which to focus on improving the access of people with disabilities to websites (e.g., text alternatives, content presented in different ways, navigating and improving compatibility with assistive technologies etc.).
Ethnic tourism is a catalyst for economic and sociocultural development in many countries. However, ethnic tourism development has given rise to many challenges associated with the sustainable development of ethnic regions within... more
Ethnic tourism is a catalyst for economic and sociocultural development in many countries. However, ethnic tourism development has given rise to many challenges associated with the sustainable development of ethnic regions within different cultural contexts. This paper addresses the social aspect of sustainable ethnic tourism through comparative case studies of two ethnic Hakka tourism destinations, Nanyuan and Sujiawei villages in Heyuan, Guangdong Province, China. The comparative case-study research design included in-depth interviews, document analysis and a household study in each case-study village. The comparative case study provides insights into factors contributing to socially sustainable ethnic tourism in China, including levels of community involvement, control of the tourism ‘product’, the benefits accruing to the ethnic community, perceived inconveniences/externalities and authenticity considerations. This study contributes to a better understanding of socially sustainable ethnic tourism in a Chinese context, and has practical implications for ethnic tourism destination marketing, management and policy-making.
This article provides an objective, systematic, and integrated review of the Western academic literature on adventure tourism to discover the theoretical foundations and key themes underlying the field by combining three complementary... more
This article provides an objective, systematic, and integrated review of the Western academic literature on adventure tourism to discover the theoretical foundations and key themes underlying the field by combining three complementary approaches of bibliometric analysis, content analysis, and a quantitative systematic review. A total of 114 publications on adventure tourism were identified that revealed three broad areas of foci with adventure tourism research: (1) adventure tourism experience, (2) destination planning and development, and (3) adventure tourism operators. Adventure tourism has an intellectual tradition from multiple disciplines, such as the social psychology of sport and recreation. There is an underrepresentation of studies examining non-Western tourists in their own geographic contexts or non-Western tourists in Western geographic contexts. Our findings pave ways for developing a more robust framework and holistic understanding of the adventure tourism field.
Purpose This paper aims to contribute to the event legacy discourse by exploring the nexus between event legacy literature and destination competitiveness by focusing on disability sport events or parasport and addressing an identified... more
Purpose
This paper aims to contribute to the event legacy discourse by exploring the nexus between event legacy literature and destination competitiveness by focusing on disability sport events or parasport and addressing an identified gap in the research literature.
Design/methodology/approach
This is achieved through conducting a systematic review of disability sport events literature; performing an audit of international disability sport events; developing a typology of disability sport events; and outlining a research agenda drawing upon these previous steps. The typology is then placed in context to the destination competitiveness framework to provide direction for both host organizing committees and tourism destination managers. The research framework reflects the complexity of disability sport events with specific reference to the social impact of disability sport events for destinations.
Findings
Despite calls for increased research into accessible tourism and events, the potential social legacy for communities and destinations from disability sport or parasport events remains absent from most sport, event and tourism literature. The findings and resultant typology from this study provide an interdisciplinary approach to value add to the disability sport event and destination management sectors. The combined understanding of both sectors creates an opportunity to leverage further events through marketing accessibility as a competitive advantage, seizing opportunity for international and national disability events, and the subsequent event accessible tourism and general accessible tourism that improved destination accessibility provides a host city or precinct.
Research limitations/implications
The disability sport event typology and a research agenda that supports future research are outcomes of this research.
Practical implications
These insights are beneficial to both researchers and practitioners interested in leveraging the opportunities from disability sport events to support sustainable destination development and competitiveness that reflect the needs of a population with diverse access needs, including our ageing population, those with temporary disability and parents with young children.
Originality/value
This research lays the groundwork to support the desired social legacy for future host communities. From a theoretical perspective, given the paucity of research on disability sport, the typology offers a means to evaluate and monitor the impacts of various types of events from the perspectives of sustainable development, tourism, accessibility, community engagement and public policy. The addition of understanding destination competitiveness and the underlying criteria for accessible destination development provides opportunities to further leverage disability sport event beyond the event itself for ongoing accessible events, tourism and disability employment opportunities.
This paper aims to contribute to the event legacy discourse by exploring the nexus between event legacy literature and destination competitiveness by focusing on disability sport events or parasport and addressing an identified gap in the research literature.
Design/methodology/approach
This is achieved through conducting a systematic review of disability sport events literature; performing an audit of international disability sport events; developing a typology of disability sport events; and outlining a research agenda drawing upon these previous steps. The typology is then placed in context to the destination competitiveness framework to provide direction for both host organizing committees and tourism destination managers. The research framework reflects the complexity of disability sport events with specific reference to the social impact of disability sport events for destinations.
Findings
Despite calls for increased research into accessible tourism and events, the potential social legacy for communities and destinations from disability sport or parasport events remains absent from most sport, event and tourism literature. The findings and resultant typology from this study provide an interdisciplinary approach to value add to the disability sport event and destination management sectors. The combined understanding of both sectors creates an opportunity to leverage further events through marketing accessibility as a competitive advantage, seizing opportunity for international and national disability events, and the subsequent event accessible tourism and general accessible tourism that improved destination accessibility provides a host city or precinct.
Research limitations/implications
The disability sport event typology and a research agenda that supports future research are outcomes of this research.
Practical implications
These insights are beneficial to both researchers and practitioners interested in leveraging the opportunities from disability sport events to support sustainable destination development and competitiveness that reflect the needs of a population with diverse access needs, including our ageing population, those with temporary disability and parents with young children.
Originality/value
This research lays the groundwork to support the desired social legacy for future host communities. From a theoretical perspective, given the paucity of research on disability sport, the typology offers a means to evaluate and monitor the impacts of various types of events from the perspectives of sustainable development, tourism, accessibility, community engagement and public policy. The addition of understanding destination competitiveness and the underlying criteria for accessible destination development provides opportunities to further leverage disability sport event beyond the event itself for ongoing accessible events, tourism and disability employment opportunities.
Framed by a social approach to disability and leisure constraints theory, this paper presents the results of a national study examining the constraints to sport participation for people with disability. Responses were obtained from a... more
Framed by a social approach to disability and leisure constraints theory, this paper presents the results of a national study examining the constraints to sport participation for people with disability. Responses were obtained from a multi-platform questionnaire survey capturing data on constraints to participation, dimensions of disability, and level of support needs. The Exploratory Factor Analysis identified five structural together with intrapersonal and interpersonal constraint factors. While intrapersonal and interpersonal considerations were found to constrain sport participation and nonparticipation, the five structural factors had the most significant constraining impact on sport participation. The findings showed that disability type and level of support needs explain significant variations in constraints to participation and nonparticipation. When the 2-Way MANOVA included type of disability and level of support needs as contingent independent variables, the level of support needs was the most significant indicator of the likelihood of having constraints to participation or nonparticipation.
Purpose: The purpose of this article is to examine the use of a mobile technology platform, software customization and technical support services by people with disability. The disability experience is framed through the participants’ use... more
Purpose: The purpose of this article is to examine the use of a mobile technology platform, software customization and technical support services by people with disability. The disability experience is framed through the participants’ use of the technology, their social participation. Method: A qualitative and interpretive research design was employed using a three-stage process of observation and semi-structured interviews of people with disability, a significant other and their service provider. Transcripts were analyzed to examine the research questions through the theoretical framework of PHAATE – Policy, Human, Activity, Assistance and Technology and Environment. Results: The analysis revealed three emergent themes: 1. Engagement and activity; 2. Training, support and customization; and 3. Enablers, barriers and attitudes. Conclusions: The findings indicate that for the majority of users, the mobile technology increased the participants’ communication and social participation. However, this was not true for all members of the pilot with variations due to disability type, support needs and availability of support services. Most participants, significant others and service providers identified improvements in confidence, security, safety and independence of those involved. Yet, the actions and attitudes of some of the significant others and service providers acted as a constraint to the adoption of the technology.
Implications for Rehabilitation
Customized mobile technology can operate as assistive technology providing a distinct benefit in terms of promoting disability citizenship.
Mobile technology used in conjunction with a supportive call centre can lead to improvements in confidence, safety and independence for people experiencing disability.
Training and support are critical in increasing independent use of mobile technology for people with disability.
The enjoyment, development of skills and empowerment gained through the use of mobile technology facilitate the social inclusion of people with disability.
Implications for Rehabilitation
Customized mobile technology can operate as assistive technology providing a distinct benefit in terms of promoting disability citizenship.
Mobile technology used in conjunction with a supportive call centre can lead to improvements in confidence, safety and independence for people experiencing disability.
Training and support are critical in increasing independent use of mobile technology for people with disability.
The enjoyment, development of skills and empowerment gained through the use of mobile technology facilitate the social inclusion of people with disability.
Natural data on the Australian Human Rights Commission’s website outlining the complaint cases generated from Disability Discrimination Act, 1992 (DDA) were used to examine the social construction of disability employment discrimination.... more
Natural data on the Australian Human Rights Commission’s website outlining the complaint cases generated from Disability Discrimination Act, 1992 (DDA) were used to examine the social construction of disability employment discrimination. Using a social model and human rights citizenship lens, some 987 complaint cases were analysed to assess the prevalence of disability discrimination in employment, and its relationship to the types of disability, gender, entity undertaking the actions and organisational context. Of all complaint cases across the Australian Human Rights Commission’s operations, by far the largest proportion involves disability discrimination. Within the disability discrimination complaint cases, employment makes up the greatest proportion of these cases. In examining the patterns of discrimination seven major themes emerged involving: distinctive patterns across disability type; access to premises; human resource mismanagement; selection of new employees; integration of assistive technology; perception of cost of disability inclusions; and inflexible organisational workplace practices. The discussion examines the underlying reasons for the emergent themes where employers misunderstood key legal concepts that underpin the DDA including: unjustifiable hardship; inherent requirements; reasonable adjustment; direct; and indirect discrimination. The paper concludes by discussing the implications of the findings as a way of understanding the social construction of disability discrimination in employment to signal ways to better develop inclusive organisational practice.
This paper examines the service dimensions required to be inclusive of people with access needs within a major-sport event context. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities seeks to counter disability... more
This paper examines the service dimensions required to be inclusive of people with access needs within a major-sport event context. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities seeks to counter disability discrimination and enable citizenship rights of people with disabilities, including access to goods and services, across all dimensions of social participation including major-sport events (e.g. Olympic and Paralympic Games, world cups in football, cricket and rugby union). Providing for people with disability and access needs is also an emerging tourism focus with initiatives addressing accessible tourism included in the World Tourism Organizations mission and recent strategic destination plans. To enhance the understanding of service delivery for an accessible tourism market in a major-sport event context, a case study of the Vancouver Fan Zone for the FIFA Womens World Cup Canada, 2015 TM is analyzed through the lens of transformative services. From this analysis future research directions are identified to benefit those with access needs who wish to participate in major-sport events.
This article explores the use of a mobile technology platform as experienced by people with disability, their significant other and service providers. An interpretive qualitative study design was adopted involving observations and... more
This article explores the use of a mobile technology platform as experienced by people with disability, their significant other and service providers. An interpretive qualitative study design was adopted involving observations and interviews. The data were analysed using the combined lenses of the social approach to disability and the PHAATE model which represents the factors for consideration in service design for assistive technology. The findings suggest that the adoption of the technology by those in the study could be characterised by a typology of users. The implications of the typology are discussed together with the influencing factors that affected social participation and disability citizenship.
This paper is based on an invited seminar to the Nippon Foundation Paralympic Research Group delivered in Tokyo August 2015 that was asked to review the Sydney 2000 Paralympic games legacy outcomes as a way of providing reflective... more
This paper is based on an invited seminar to the Nippon Foundation Paralympic Research Group delivered in Tokyo August 2015 that was asked to review the Sydney 2000 Paralympic games legacy outcomes as a way of providing reflective learnings for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic games. Over the last decade a great deal of work has examined major sport event legacies and event leverage. Much of this work has involved Olympic studies whereas the Paralympic games have been largely overlooked. The Paralympic Games are the second largest multi-sport event after the Olympic Games. Since Sydney 2000 there has been an 'operational partnership' where bid cities are required to host both Games. Yet, few studies have evaluated the outcomes, legacies and event leverage that Paralympic games have generated. This paper addresses this absence by presenting legacy frameworks and examining a review of Paralympic legacy research from the Sydney 2000 Paralympics. The seminar is timely in that it has been 50 years since the Tokyo 1964 Paralympics and Tokyo will be again hosting the Paralympics in 2020. The paper presents a background understanding of legacy and legacy frameworks before discussing the research design. The findings are presented using Preuss (2007) cube conceptualisations of legacy that incorporates the dimensions: planned/unplanned; tangible/intangible; and positive/negative. There are four suggested learnings from Sydney 2000 that may prepare Tokyo 2020 Paralympic games to more strategically address legacy. They are: fostering a relationship with the disability community; developing a Research agenda; educating the population about Paralympic sport; and preparing a culturally appropriate campaign to recruit volunteers.
Purpose – Accessible tourism is evolving as a field of academic research and industry practice, set within a dynamic social context. The field is interdisciplinary, multidisciplinary and transdisciplinary. The purpose of this paper is to... more
Purpose – Accessible tourism is evolving as a field of academic research and industry practice, set within a dynamic social context. The field is interdisciplinary, multidisciplinary and transdisciplinary. The purpose of this paper is to examine key concepts and global initiatives that will shape accessible tourism futures.
Design/methodology/approach – Three of the authors have extensive academic experience in the area and the fourth author is the Managing Director of the pre-eminent European Network for Accessible Tourism. In taking a limited Delphi approach to canvassing key areas likely to shape accessible tourism futures, the
following concepts and policy initiatives were examined: motivations, dreams and aspirations of people with disability; demography; UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities; destination competitiveness; universal design (UD); and the UN Sustainable Development Goals for 2030.
Findings – A discussion of each of the above areas was placed in context to accessible tourism futures and to contextualise the papers that were selected for the special issue. The latter part of the paper outlines the contribution of each empirical paper to the issue discussing the approach, findings and implications. Stakeholder collaboration was identified as the key common theme of the papers and the factor for developing accessible tourism solutions, recognising the value of the market and capitalising on it. A collaborative approach is required to recognise the complementary nature of the different paradigms; to re-shape and transform the future of the accessible tourism industry. To assist in the development of accessible tourism futures, UD principles should provide a foundation to enhance the future competitiveness of tourism destinations and organisations.
Originality/value – The paper’s examination of the concepts and global policy considerations provides a strong academic and practitioner foundation for considering accessible tourism futures. In doing so, accessible tourism futures are shown to be affected by key concepts related to core tourism considerations
and major policy initiatives on accessibility and sustainability. Yet, accessible tourism futures also have the potential to create their own momentum and contribute unique learnings on the diversity of tourism markets that will shape tourism concepts and global policy initiatives in their own right.
Design/methodology/approach – Three of the authors have extensive academic experience in the area and the fourth author is the Managing Director of the pre-eminent European Network for Accessible Tourism. In taking a limited Delphi approach to canvassing key areas likely to shape accessible tourism futures, the
following concepts and policy initiatives were examined: motivations, dreams and aspirations of people with disability; demography; UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities; destination competitiveness; universal design (UD); and the UN Sustainable Development Goals for 2030.
Findings – A discussion of each of the above areas was placed in context to accessible tourism futures and to contextualise the papers that were selected for the special issue. The latter part of the paper outlines the contribution of each empirical paper to the issue discussing the approach, findings and implications. Stakeholder collaboration was identified as the key common theme of the papers and the factor for developing accessible tourism solutions, recognising the value of the market and capitalising on it. A collaborative approach is required to recognise the complementary nature of the different paradigms; to re-shape and transform the future of the accessible tourism industry. To assist in the development of accessible tourism futures, UD principles should provide a foundation to enhance the future competitiveness of tourism destinations and organisations.
Originality/value – The paper’s examination of the concepts and global policy considerations provides a strong academic and practitioner foundation for considering accessible tourism futures. In doing so, accessible tourism futures are shown to be affected by key concepts related to core tourism considerations
and major policy initiatives on accessibility and sustainability. Yet, accessible tourism futures also have the potential to create their own momentum and contribute unique learnings on the diversity of tourism markets that will shape tourism concepts and global policy initiatives in their own right.
Investment in mega-sport events is frequently justified on the basis that there are infrastructure and social legacies that remain after the event. This research explores the claims of a social legacy through a pre- and post-Games survey... more
Investment in mega-sport events is frequently justified on the basis that there are infrastructure and social legacies that remain after the event. This research explores the claims of a social legacy through a pre- and post-Games survey of volunteers at the Sydney World Masters Games 2009 (SWMG). Through online surveys the research explores pre-and post-volunteer motivations, postevent volunteering intentions before the Games and actual volunteer behavior after the Games. The pre-Games survey supports previous research that a desire to be involved in the event motivates people to volunteer. However, the postevent expression of motivations shifted to a more altruistic focus. The postevent volunteering intentions as indicated in the preevent survey would support the claim of a social legacy; however, this was not supported by the postevent measures of volunteering levels. The use of a pre- and postevent survey has highlighted that the timing of measures of motivations can influence responses and one may not depend on pre-event intentions as an indicator of postevent behaviors.
To examine the background of destination competitiveness theories. To identify the factors make a destination competitive for the accessible tourism. To show the accessible tourism competitiveness factors adapting the Crouch's model. To... more
To examine the background of destination competitiveness theories. To identify the factors make a destination competitive for the accessible tourism. To show the accessible tourism competitiveness factors adapting the Crouch's model. To formulate an accessible competitiveness factors ranking for Australia and Spain. To define clusters for the Australian and Spanish regions based on accessibility. a b s t r a c t This paper seeks to address the research question of what factors make a destination competitive for the accessible tourism market. The research design is based on destination competitiveness theories. The objective is to formulate a ranking that can compare the competitiveness factors between two countries, with historical and appropriate data sets, in order to examine destination competitiveness for accessible tourism across the tourist regions of both countries. The current research examines the background of destination competitiveness theories, both generally and specifically, as they relate to the research contexts. The research design was developed to examine the underlying elements that facilitate accessible tourism experiences through factorial and cluster analyses, adapting the Crouch's model of competitiveness destination. The findings suggest that the competitiveness factors are different in determinance and importance, and are country-dependent. The climate, locale and tourist structure are the most important for Spain, whereas quality of services, brand and infrastructure are of great importance for Australia. The cluster analysis of the different tourist regions suggests the existence of three main stages. These stages where related to their accessibility level of offered tourism product and their policies.
Participation in Civil Society Organizations (CSO) draws on and enriches social, cultural, and human capital. Social impacts of such participation as active citizenship are systemic and 'ripple' far beyond the immediate program outputs... more
Participation in Civil Society Organizations (CSO) draws on and enriches social, cultural, and human capital. Social impacts of such participation as active citizenship are systemic and 'ripple' far beyond the immediate program outputs and outcomes. CSOs and the third sector as a whole must demonstrate and gage the difference they make in the social life of the broader community. This research offers a new approach to conceptualize CSO social impacts through an empirically derived model that accounts for the impacts of active citizenship for individuals, organizations, and the broader community. A conceptual model of systemic social impact is presented as it was developed through an exploratory study of a large Australian CSO using an abductive methodology combining focus groups and a survey. Considering the potential of the model that could account for impacts beyond program outputs and outcomes, we propose several propositions for
future testing the conceptual model.
future testing the conceptual model.
This article presents an examination of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games' volunteers who identified as having access needs and/or disabilities. The methodology draws upon data collected as part of a larger quantitative mixed... more
This article presents an examination of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games' volunteers who identified as having access needs and/or disabilities. The methodology draws upon data collected as part of a larger quantitative mixed method research design through an online survey that included open-ended questions. The quantitative element of the online survey was framed by the Special Event Volunteer Motivation Scale together with sociodemographic questions supplemented by disability and access specific questions. The qualitative analysis of the open-ended responses of the experiences of people with disability was framed using the UK government's Office of Disability Issues (ODI) policy conceptualization of the barriers affecting the access and inclusion of people with disability. A small number of volunteers related feedback consistent with the principles of the ODI best practice through good staff support and overall positive experiences. However, other experiences indicate significant organizational, environmental, and structural issues faced by volunteers with disability in the program. The implications of these findings for future event planning processes and broader macropolicy considerations are discussed.
This paper presents the findings of a study that examines the development of social capital within an Australian sporting organisation, Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA). The study draws on the social capital literature across the... more
This paper presents the findings of a study that examines the development of social capital within an Australian sporting organisation, Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA). The study draws on the social capital literature across the not-for-profit sector and specific sport management social capital research. The research design incorporated an interpretive approach with data collected nationally from eight focus groups with key SLSA staff, board members and ‘toes in the sand’ volunteers. The findings provide fresh insights into the development and understanding of social capital within a sporting organisation. Both bonding and bridging were important social capital outcomes of the organisation's activities, albeit with important implications for antecedents and process. The data presented strong evidence for arguing that within the organisation bonding within the club comes first, which importantly provides a very strong sense of belonging and mutual support for club members, from volunteers through to the board. The strength of bonding provides a powerful base for subsequent bridging capital to the local, regional and national stakeholder communities that are associated with the organisation. Further, social capital develops in both the collective and individual, with leveraging of individual skills contributing to human capital development, which is closely connected to and inseparable from social capital. The paper concludes by discussing the theoretical implications for social capital generally and social capital in a sporting context.
Disability is a complex multidimensional social construct. In a sporting context, people with a disability often face a multitude of barriers to participation in sport and achievement in sport. While other marginalised populations have... more
Disability is a complex multidimensional social construct. In a sporting context, people with a disability often face a multitude of barriers to participation in sport and achievement in sport. While other marginalised populations have received attention in the field of sport management, disability has received very little, or been used primarily as a context. This special issue focuses on ‘‘managing disability sport’’ rather than the medical, human performance or sociocultural issues facing people with disability. The collection of papers herein focus on management issues that centre on constraints to sport participation, supply side attributes, participant behaviours, consumption of disability sport, policy implementation, and sponsor congruence. We situate these papers in the context of further challenging researchers to think beyond disability as a context in their research and engage in the critical discussions necessary to advance the agenda of managing disability sport.
Over the last decade a great deal of work has examined major sport event legacies and event leverage. Much of this work has involved Olympic studies and this paper seeks to add to the body of knowledge surrounding major sport event... more
Over the last decade a great deal of work has examined major sport event legacies and event leverage. Much of this work has involved Olympic studies and this paper seeks to add to the body of knowledge surrounding major sport event legacies by examining the largely overlooked area of the Paralympic Games. The Paralympic Games are the second largest multisport event after the Olympic Games depending upon which parameters are used and since Sydney 2000 there has been an 'operational partnership' where bid cities are required to host both Games. Yet, few studies have evaluated the comparative outcomes, legacies and event leverage that Paralympic games have generated. This paper addresses this absence by conducting a thematic analysis of Paralympic legacy research. The thematic analysis used a combination of keywords involving event legacy across 13 major academic databases. Of the 43 articles identified as having Paralympic legacy related content only 13 articles empirically investigated Paralympic legacy. In reviewing the research, it is noted that the bulk of the research has focused on Summer Paralympic Games with little interest in the Winter Paralympic Games. The major findings for legacy-based research include: infrastructure; sport; information education, and awareness; human capital; and managerial changes. However, while these findings may seem congruent with major event legacies frameworks conceptually, an examination of the detailed findings shows that Paralympic legacy research is isomorphic and adds a new component to existing legacy dimensions.
Patterson, I., Darcy, S., & Monninghoff, M. (2012). Attitudes and Experiences of Tourism Operators in Northern Australia toward People with Disabilities. World Leisure Journal, 54(3), 215-229 The last decade has seen an increasing... more
Patterson, I., Darcy, S., & Monninghoff, M. (2012). Attitudes and Experiences of Tourism Operators in Northern Australia toward People with Disabilities. World Leisure Journal, 54(3), 215-229
The last decade has seen an increasing interest in disability, access and tourism. This has culminated in the emergence of a body of work on ‘‘accessible tourism.’’
Disability and access have been the subject of a great deal of government regulation
and coordination through building codes, awareness training and state-based
tourism marketing authorities and policy engagement. Yet, the supply-side
perspective of industry responses to this consumer group has been under
researched (Darcy & Pegg, 2011). This study seeks to redress this omission through
examining the attitudes and experiences of tourism operators. The area chosen for
the study was Queensland, Australia. In-depth interviews were conducted with 32
tourism operators across five major regional tourism locations. The interviews
investigated the level of engagement with the consumer group, their motivations for
catering for the group and their experiences with the service provision to the group.
The results of the study showed that, while the macro policy environment is
conducive to having an accessible built environment, transport and service sector,
the level of engagement by the tourism industry still involves an ad hoc process of
trial and error on the part of individual operators. In comparison with previous
decades, tourism operators are now making significant efforts to make their
products and services more accessible to people with disabilities. However, most
operators in the study noted that there is still a weak demand from the accessible
tourism market and low recognition of their existing product offerings.
The last decade has seen an increasing interest in disability, access and tourism. This has culminated in the emergence of a body of work on ‘‘accessible tourism.’’
Disability and access have been the subject of a great deal of government regulation
and coordination through building codes, awareness training and state-based
tourism marketing authorities and policy engagement. Yet, the supply-side
perspective of industry responses to this consumer group has been under
researched (Darcy & Pegg, 2011). This study seeks to redress this omission through
examining the attitudes and experiences of tourism operators. The area chosen for
the study was Queensland, Australia. In-depth interviews were conducted with 32
tourism operators across five major regional tourism locations. The interviews
investigated the level of engagement with the consumer group, their motivations for
catering for the group and their experiences with the service provision to the group.
The results of the study showed that, while the macro policy environment is
conducive to having an accessible built environment, transport and service sector,
the level of engagement by the tourism industry still involves an ad hoc process of
trial and error on the part of individual operators. In comparison with previous
decades, tourism operators are now making significant efforts to make their
products and services more accessible to people with disabilities. However, most
operators in the study noted that there is still a weak demand from the accessible
tourism market and low recognition of their existing product offerings.
The article sets a context of the United nations' (2006) Convention for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities as an international agreement that in principle guarantees people with disability an equality of experience in all areas of... more
The article sets a context of the United nations' (2006) Convention for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities as an international agreement that in principle guarantees people with disability an equality of experience in all areas of citizenship including the event industry. The remainder of the article provides an understanding of the demographics of the group, the research literature in event specific journals, market arguments examples, and an overview of disability-specific events that the industry may not have previously considered. The article concludes with a call for the events industry to develop a culture of inclusive practice and for academic event researchers to place disability, access, and inclusion on the research agenda.
Disability citizenship and independence through mobile technology: a study exploring adoption and use of a mobile technology platform Abstract This paper explores the use of mobile technology as experienced by people with disability. The... more
Disability citizenship and independence through mobile technology: a study exploring adoption and use of a mobile technology platform Abstract This paper explores the use of mobile technology as experienced by people with disability. The intention of the mobile technology is to increase community independence and participation by increasing the user's autonomy through a range of apps and a 24/7 Help Centre. It examines their experiences of the device, the perceptions of its effectiveness through the eyes of carers and service providers, and the impact of the technology on the lives of the individuals. An interpretive qualitative study design was adopted involving observations and interviews with 15 participants, their significant others and their service providers. The data is analysed using the 'PHAATE' model which represents the factors for consideration in service design which are policy, human/person, activity, assistance, technology and environment. The findings indicate that the mobile technology extensively increased the participants' communication and sharing of events and information particularly with family members. Carers and service providers talked about the benefits of the technology in terms of security, safety and independence. Nonetheless, all involved in the research identified technical, behavioural and roll out problems associated with the mobile technology. Overall incorporating mobile technology into the lives of people with disabilities provides opportunities for the development of greater independence and disability citizenship.
Research Interests:
We reside within a global village, with approximately 10% of the world’s population or 650 million people (including about 200 million children) living with some form of disability (United Nations 2011). This has been estimated to rise to... more
We reside within a global village, with approximately 10% of the world’s population
or 650 million people (including about 200 million children) living with some form of
disability (United Nations 2011). This has been estimated to rise to 1.2 billion by
2050 (United Nations 2011). The World Health Organization and the United
Nations have recognized that people with disability have a right to access services
from all areas of citizenship. The purpose of this special issue of Annals of Leisure
Research was to seek contributions examining the inclusion and citizenship of people
with disability in ‘cultural life’, defined by the United Nation’s (2006) Convention on
the Rights of Persons with Disability (CRPWD) to include recreation, leisure, the
arts, sport and tourism. In particular, the issue aimed to:
(1) clarify what the terms inclusion and citizenship mean in different cultures;
(2) place inclusion to and citizenship of ‘cultural life’ across discourses relating
to economic, social and environmental contexts that affect people with
disabilities participation; and
(3) discuss the terms inclusion and citizenship from the ideological frameworks
of government, researchers, providers of service or disability advocacy groups.
or 650 million people (including about 200 million children) living with some form of
disability (United Nations 2011). This has been estimated to rise to 1.2 billion by
2050 (United Nations 2011). The World Health Organization and the United
Nations have recognized that people with disability have a right to access services
from all areas of citizenship. The purpose of this special issue of Annals of Leisure
Research was to seek contributions examining the inclusion and citizenship of people
with disability in ‘cultural life’, defined by the United Nation’s (2006) Convention on
the Rights of Persons with Disability (CRPWD) to include recreation, leisure, the
arts, sport and tourism. In particular, the issue aimed to:
(1) clarify what the terms inclusion and citizenship mean in different cultures;
(2) place inclusion to and citizenship of ‘cultural life’ across discourses relating
to economic, social and environmental contexts that affect people with
disabilities participation; and
(3) discuss the terms inclusion and citizenship from the ideological frameworks
of government, researchers, providers of service or disability advocacy groups.
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Social impact measures are not widely agreed, nor implemented by third sector organisations. Meso level indicators of social impact are underdeveloped. Financialised methods such as Social Return on Investment can only account for direct... more
Social impact measures are not widely agreed, nor implemented by third sector organisations. Meso level indicators of social impact are underdeveloped. Financialised methods such as Social Return on Investment can only account for direct outcomes of defined programs and activities. The broader societal impacts of any such activities are undervalued. This paper outlines the findings of a grounded theoretical approach to determining measures of social impact within a large Australian iconic third sector organisation. Several key factors revealed in this study are discussed in regards to their potential for attributing social impact to organisational activities outside of a program specific outcome. Based on these findings the paper concludes that the development of a tool to measure meso level organisational social impact of third sector organisations may be attainable.
Research Interests:
The paper presents the results of a study seeking to examine the experiences of people with intellectual disability in a sporting context. The research design employed an online, interviewer-completed questionnaire in both a standard and... more
The paper presents the results of a study seeking to examine the experiences of people with intellectual disability in a sporting context. The research design employed an online, interviewer-completed questionnaire in both a standard and an easy English version designed for administration by a third party for those requiring assistance to respond. Questions sought both quantitative responses about levels of participation and qualitative responses about constraints experienced and benefits received from participation. The results of the study show high levels of participation reported by people who are independent or have lower to moderate support needs whereas people with high to very high support needs had substantially lower levels of participation. Constraints are examined for both those who participate in sport and those who do not. For those who do participate, the benefits were identified as overwhelmingly social in nature, including belonging, companionship and achievement.
Research Interests:
This paper presents the results of an analysis of the tourism participation patterns of people with impairments in Australia. The research is based on a social approach to disability that places the lived experience of people with... more
This paper presents the results of an analysis of the tourism participation patterns of people with impairments in Australia. The research is based on a social approach to disability that places the lived experience of people with impairments at the centre of the research paradigm (Oliver 1990; 1996). In short the social approach to disability conceptualises disability as a complex form of social oppression rather than the individual’s fault stemming from impairment (Abberley 1987). A social approach to disability investigates the disabling constraints and barriers produced by the social, economic, physical and cultural environments, and prevailing ‘hostile social attitudes’ (Barnes 1996:43). The methodology employed for this paper involved the secondary data analysis of three national surveys (ABS 1993; 1998; and BTR 1998) and a survey undertaken by the author (Darcy 1998). The analysis involves a range of techniques including frequencies, crosstabulations, chi-square, independent sample t-Test, ANOVA and binary logistic regression analysis. The major areas of analysis of the data showed firstly, the relative level of travel undertaken by people with impairments. Secondly, this work demonstrated that people with impairments travel significantly less than the non-disabled. Thirdly, due to this lower level of travel people with impairments are proportionally under represented as members of the travelling public. Yet, the majority of people with impairments did not view their impairment as the reason for non-travel but other constraints and barriers that they encounter. These constraints and barriers vary significantly based on their access requirements (vision, hearing, mobility and communication). Lastly, the paper revealed the impact of the embodied ontology (Shakespeare and Watson 2001) on tourism patterns. The paper concludes with a discussion of the complexity of understanding the social relations of tourism for people with impairments in Australia.
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
This article presents an investigation of the embodied air travel experiences of people with disability. The study was informed by human rights frameworks, social approaches to disability and critical tourism. The research design included... more
This article presents an investigation of the embodied air travel experiences of people with disability. The study was informed by human rights frameworks, social approaches to disability and critical tourism. The research design included a review of newspaper articles, human rights complaint cases, open-ended responses to a survey on the tourism experiences of people with disabilities and semistructured in-depth interviews. The findings revealed that the air travel practices routinely contravened disability discrimination legislation and identified a series of socially constructed constraints across the air travel chain from the preplanning of trips through to disembarking after a flight. What emerged from these experiences was that the embodied individuals became (dis)embodied at each stage of the air travel chain. The inequitable, inaccessible, undignified and dependent practices resulted in heightened anxiety, increased helplessness and, in some cases, humiliation to which they were not subjected in their everyday lives.
Keywords:
air travel; travel chain; disability; embodiment; human rights; citizenship; lived experience; social model
Keywords:
air travel; travel chain; disability; embodiment; human rights; citizenship; lived experience; social model
Research Interests:
Abstract It is well proven that a physically active lifestyle has associated health and social benefits and is linked to a sense of wellbeing. It is also acknowledged that not all groups in society have the same opportunities to engage in... more
Abstract It is well proven that a physically active lifestyle has associated health and social benefits and is linked to a sense of wellbeing. It is also acknowledged that not all groups in society have the same opportunities to engage in sport and physical activity, and that participation can be gendered. This paper presents a study of the sport participation of females with a disability within Australia to better understand some of the key drivers to enhance levels of involvement in sport and thus facilitate a healthier lifestyle.
The paper reviews the legacy of the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games some 10 years after the event. It does so by examining key documents, accounts of the games, academic literature analysing the Paralympic games and contemporary theoretical... more
The paper reviews the legacy of the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games some 10 years after the event. It does so by examining key documents, accounts of the games, academic literature analysing the Paralympic games and contemporary theoretical contributions. The legacies examined include: International Olympic Committee and International Paralympic Committee.listening partnership; strategic vision; sport delivery; branding; media coverage; education; knowledge transfer; Australian Paralympic committee funding; mainstreaming; athlete recognition; community responses; disability awareness education; and infrastructure. The paper concludes through presenting a conceptualisation of these legacies as matrix along two continumms: 1. From domestic to international; and 2. From sport to the event/social/community.
Research Interests:
This scoping paper examines the complex issue of assessing and understanding community views about the restructuring towards nature-based rural tourism of traditional agriculture and forestry rural economies and their activities that had... more
This scoping paper examines the complex issue of assessing and understanding community views about the restructuring towards nature-based rural tourism of traditional agriculture and forestry rural economies and their activities that had hitherto shaped local identities. It shows how individual resident perceptions can be included within social impact assessment through the use of psychological methods and discusses the relative merits of using personal construct theory -based repertory grids. Ten repertory grid interviews were completed in Eden, New South Wales, Australia. The findings present both the resulting repertory grids and a more detailed discussion of the interpretation of the grids through two narratives that focus on residents considering what, in their opinion, constitutes a sustainable utilisation of local forest land. The discussion examines how the results of this type of analysis can be used to understand individual residents’ decisions to support or reject nature-based tourism proposals in favour of traditional extractive forest-industry sectors. It shows how this assessment system could aid planners in reconciling stakeholder conflict over the ideal usage of public forest land by offering a structured means of giving heterogeneous rural communities a formal voice in tourism-planning processes.
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"This paper reports the findings of a qualitative study that investigated the embodied tourist experiences of 40 people who are vision impaired. The study, informed by the concept of “embodied ontology”, explored the corporeal and... more
"This paper reports the findings of a qualitative study that investigated the embodied tourist experiences of 40 people who are vision impaired. The study, informed by the concept of “embodied ontology”, explored the corporeal and socially constructed experience of tourism. The findings highlighted the benefit of holidays for the participants and de-centred the “visual gaze” in the tourist experience. The quality of the tourist experience related to participants’ feelings of inclusion or exclusion in terms of their access to information, experience of wayfinding, travelling with a guide dog, and the knowledge and attitudes of others. It was evident that participants needed to manage their tourist experiences closely and constantly. The paper concludes that the tourism industry and community must understand the multi-sensory nature of the tourist experience if quality accessible experiences are to be available for tourists with vision impairment. Provision of multi-sensory experiences also enhances the experiences of sighted tourists.
Highlights
►People with vision impairment have been omitted in the tourism research literature. ► The “visual gaze” constrains our understanding of the embodied nature of tourism. ► Structural constraints disable tourism environments, services and attitudes. ► The embodied nature of vision impairment requires spatial and sensory understanding. ► Experiences can be enhanced through tactility, aroma, movement and sound.
Keywords
Vision impairment; Blind; Sensory; Embodiment; Disability; Tourist experience; Management; Accessible tourism"
Highlights
►People with vision impairment have been omitted in the tourism research literature. ► The “visual gaze” constrains our understanding of the embodied nature of tourism. ► Structural constraints disable tourism environments, services and attitudes. ► The embodied nature of vision impairment requires spatial and sensory understanding. ► Experiences can be enhanced through tactility, aroma, movement and sound.
Keywords
Vision impairment; Blind; Sensory; Embodiment; Disability; Tourist experience; Management; Accessible tourism"
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Soccer in Australia underwent a series of changes following a Federal Government inquiry into its future. A report into the Structure, Governance and Management of Soccer in Australia (2003) recommended a process of structural change,... more
Soccer in Australia underwent a series of changes following a Federal Government inquiry into its future. A report into the Structure, Governance and Management of Soccer in Australia (2003) recommended a process of structural change, aimed at repositioning and re-branding soccer as association football. The restructure yielded the replacement of the National Soccer League with the A-League, five new Australian teams and a concerted attempt to separate soccer from its ethnic ties in the antipodes. This paper examines member identification in relation to a specific A-League club’s members. Using the Sports Spectator Identity Scale (Wann & Branscombe, 1993) to measure sport fan identity in a new team context, a survey of club members of Sydney FC (n = 510), was undertaken. Survey findings indicated that members of Sydney FC reported relatively strong team identification in the first year of the new competition, with some nuanced differences based on age and income. The SSIS demonstrated a good level of fit in relation to a new sports team, although it is evident that rivalries and identification with a new team need time to develop fully.
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"The tourism sector globally has become increasingly mindful of how an ageing population is reshaping service provision forms and offerings. This is particularly true of accommodation operations where there is a now a growing recognition... more
"The tourism sector globally has become increasingly mindful of how an ageing population is reshaping service provision forms and offerings. This is particularly true of accommodation operations where there is a now a growing recognition of the commercial value for providing market groups with exceptional service. With this in mind, this study sought to ascertain the perceptions of managers in the accommodation sector towards disability service provision with a view to identifying any current service gaps or failings. An inductive, qualitative approach was used with the data collection phase incorporating a series of one on one interviews and a focus group. The in-depth interviews were conducted with 10 managers of hotels deemed to have accessible rooms that complied with the relevant building codes and standards. A focus group comprised 22 managers of hotels located in the Sydney central business district, Australia. Study findings revealed five key themes that had not been previously discussed in the literature. They were: inclusive attitudinal approach; safety; the responsibility of people with a disability to communicate their needs to the hotel; perceptions of accessible rooms by the general public; and operational processes. Related themes that emerged from the data analysis that had previously been aligned with the literature included: legislative responsibility, policy and building codes; disability as a market segment; staff awareness/training; and language, marketing, and promotion information. Implications with respect to management of accessible rooms in the accommodation sector are outlined and further areas of research are proposed.
Keywords: Disability; Vision; Hearing; Mobility; Hotel; Lodging; Accommodation; Service; Social model; Attitude; Management perception"
Keywords: Disability; Vision; Hearing; Mobility; Hotel; Lodging; Accommodation; Service; Social model; Attitude; Management perception"
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Information on visitor numbers, activities, expectations and satisfaction is vital for protected areas managers on two counts: to assist in the provision of the services and facilities that visitors need and want; and to determine if... more
Information on visitor numbers, activities, expectations and satisfaction is vital for protected areas managers on two counts: to assist in the provision of the services and facilities that visitors need and want; and to determine if managers have been efficient and effective in meeting these demands. This paper builds on a recently completed national study in Australia of visitor data collection and usage, and the future visitor data needs, of protected area management agencies. Australia is a federation of states and provides a challenging backdrop for developing a national approach as most responsibilities for protected areas rest with the states rather than the national government. Thus, the success of such an approach rests on cooperation rather than an overarching national regulatory responsibility. The study found that all protected area agencies collected visitor data, however, their approaches were highly variable in what was measured, how the measurements were applied and how data were managed and used. This variability was problematic because it becomes very difficult to determine issues of general importance for protected area management or to benchmark performance across areas. Based on these findings and knowledge of the institutional settings for protected area management in Australia, this paper poses some ideas for progressing a national approach for standardising the measures and measurement of key variables so that comparisons and benchmarking become possible and reliable. Core and supplementary visitor data variables can be identified, with the former being of national interest and hence requiring collection and storage under national coordination and guidance. Implementing such an approach will require working creatively and collaboratively within the current institutional settings.
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Introduction This chapter presents a background to the disciplinary perspectives that have informed research, policy and practice in urban tourism. Urban centres are major destinations for many tourists and, for others, can be the gateway... more
Introduction
This chapter presents a background to the disciplinary perspectives that have informed research, policy and practice in urban tourism. Urban centres are major destinations for many tourists and, for others, can be the gateway through which they pass to regional destinations. Despite the importance of the urban centre for tourism studies, prior to the 1980s there was a dearth of interest in the subject. The scarce research on urban tourism was dominated by the traditional discipline of geography (D. G. Pearce, 2001). Post-1980s urban tourism has increasingly been regarded as an important part of tourism with a developing literature (Ashworth & Tunbridge, 1990, 2000; Berg, Borg, & Meer, 1995; Hall & Page, 2002; Law, 1993, 1996, 2002; Page, 1995; Russo & van der Borg, 2002; Selby, 2004b; G. Shaw & Williams, 2002; Tyler, Guerrier, & Robertson, 1998). The increased interest in urban tourism can be attributed to the reactive need to regulate or coordinate the adverse effects of high visitation to predominantly historic cities and the urgency to restructure post-industrial areas within cities. City planners have moved from ad hoc approaches to urban tourism to adopting more strategic engagement through urban political economic agendas. Urban tourism is now regarded by the mayors of major cities around the globe to be an important dynamic to consider in all postulations of city planning (City Mayors, 2007). Yet, even with this recognition, the study of urban tourism precincts as a subset of urban tourism is a relatively new phenomena.
The chapter presents an overview of urban tourism from the traditional disciplines of geography, economics, politics, psychology and sociology. However, it is apparent that much of the scholarship has crossed traditional disciplinary boundaries. From this background, the more recent poststructural theorising on urban tourism has taken direction from cultural studies approaches (Aitchison, MacLeod, & Shaw, 2000), albeit with a foundation in radical geographies, and the 'new urbanism' literature that places cities in context to globalisation and the conceptualising of community (N. Smith, 2002). Within these frameworks, tourism is part of global capital where the city's future productive economy is based on new development. Leisure lifestyle and, hence, tourism are the driver for constructing aesthetically pleasing environments by which to attract investment and the associated economic benefits (taxes, invisible exports, jobs etc.). Within the poststructural conceptualisations of tourism there are many challenges for policy makers in that multiple perspectives and realities are valued rather than grand theory (Aitchison, 2001; Galani-Moutafi, 2000; Uriely, 2005; John Urry, 1990).
Poststructuralism highlights the contradictions between the pragmatic nature of urban tourism policy and that of the consumptive, market driven tourism within globalised paradigms. The tourist predominantly does not move outside of the tourism precinct, where relationships with hosts are limited. The recognition of "the other" becomes central to understanding the multiple realities of the tourist and the multiple realities of the host. Urban tourism precincts become places where the tourist mixes with a dichotomy of the host population, where the separation of tourism from social consumption is impossible. Gender will be used as an example to explore one multiple reality which has often been overlooked or forgotten in the way that tourism is presented, consumed and experienced in an urban context. The chapter concludes by discussing the implications for the future of urban tourism.
This chapter presents a background to the disciplinary perspectives that have informed research, policy and practice in urban tourism. Urban centres are major destinations for many tourists and, for others, can be the gateway through which they pass to regional destinations. Despite the importance of the urban centre for tourism studies, prior to the 1980s there was a dearth of interest in the subject. The scarce research on urban tourism was dominated by the traditional discipline of geography (D. G. Pearce, 2001). Post-1980s urban tourism has increasingly been regarded as an important part of tourism with a developing literature (Ashworth & Tunbridge, 1990, 2000; Berg, Borg, & Meer, 1995; Hall & Page, 2002; Law, 1993, 1996, 2002; Page, 1995; Russo & van der Borg, 2002; Selby, 2004b; G. Shaw & Williams, 2002; Tyler, Guerrier, & Robertson, 1998). The increased interest in urban tourism can be attributed to the reactive need to regulate or coordinate the adverse effects of high visitation to predominantly historic cities and the urgency to restructure post-industrial areas within cities. City planners have moved from ad hoc approaches to urban tourism to adopting more strategic engagement through urban political economic agendas. Urban tourism is now regarded by the mayors of major cities around the globe to be an important dynamic to consider in all postulations of city planning (City Mayors, 2007). Yet, even with this recognition, the study of urban tourism precincts as a subset of urban tourism is a relatively new phenomena.
The chapter presents an overview of urban tourism from the traditional disciplines of geography, economics, politics, psychology and sociology. However, it is apparent that much of the scholarship has crossed traditional disciplinary boundaries. From this background, the more recent poststructural theorising on urban tourism has taken direction from cultural studies approaches (Aitchison, MacLeod, & Shaw, 2000), albeit with a foundation in radical geographies, and the 'new urbanism' literature that places cities in context to globalisation and the conceptualising of community (N. Smith, 2002). Within these frameworks, tourism is part of global capital where the city's future productive economy is based on new development. Leisure lifestyle and, hence, tourism are the driver for constructing aesthetically pleasing environments by which to attract investment and the associated economic benefits (taxes, invisible exports, jobs etc.). Within the poststructural conceptualisations of tourism there are many challenges for policy makers in that multiple perspectives and realities are valued rather than grand theory (Aitchison, 2001; Galani-Moutafi, 2000; Uriely, 2005; John Urry, 1990).
Poststructuralism highlights the contradictions between the pragmatic nature of urban tourism policy and that of the consumptive, market driven tourism within globalised paradigms. The tourist predominantly does not move outside of the tourism precinct, where relationships with hosts are limited. The recognition of "the other" becomes central to understanding the multiple realities of the tourist and the multiple realities of the host. Urban tourism precincts become places where the tourist mixes with a dichotomy of the host population, where the separation of tourism from social consumption is impossible. Gender will be used as an example to explore one multiple reality which has often been overlooked or forgotten in the way that tourism is presented, consumed and experienced in an urban context. The chapter concludes by discussing the implications for the future of urban tourism.
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The paper will examine a range of issues surrounding the Sydney 2000 Olympic and Paralympic Games and the involvement of the Australian community of people with disability. Sydney is a sprawling urban metropolis with a range of well... more
The paper will examine a range of issues surrounding the Sydney 2000 Olympic and Paralympic Games and the involvement of the Australian community of people with disability. Sydney is a sprawling urban metropolis with a range of well documented physical, social and attitudinal barriers for people with disabilities (Physical Disability Council of NSW 1999). The Sydney Paralympics in particular, were seen as a possible watershed event for developing accessible infrastructure and raising awareness of disability and access issues (Sydney Paralympic Organising Committee 1998a). This paper seeks to document a range of issues that became important for the community of people with disabilities in Sydney in the lead up to, during an after the Games. This paper draws on the official documents of the Games, newspaper accounts, disability organization reports and other personally communicated sources. The paper will firstly examine the major bodies charged with organising the Games and the planning processes used to incorporate disability and access issues (Olympic Co-ordination Authority 1998a). These include the Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (SOCOG), the Sydney Paralympic Organising Committee (SPOC), the Olympic Co-ordination Authority (OCA) and the Olympic Roads and Traffic Authority (ORTA). The paper then examines a range of critical issues and the relationships with the disability community. Lastly, the paper will provide an analysis of any likely legacies that the 2000 Games may have for Sydney's community of people with disabilities
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Abstract This paper explores the concept of accessible tourism and its links with triple-bottom-line (TBL) sustainability. Accessible tourism is reviewed through some of its central features including dimensions of access, universal... more
Abstract
This paper explores the concept of accessible tourism and its links with triple-bottom-line (TBL) sustainability. Accessible tourism is reviewed through some of its central features including dimensions of access, universal design and the nexus between ageing and disability. The TBL is then examined to better understand the financial, environmental and social considerations that arise from accessible tourism. The research design used in this explorative research incorporated a case study approach, where a business case study instrument was developed. Methods included a Delphi group, review of management information systems, in-depth interviews with key informants, observation and participant observation. The study results revealed that rather than accessible tourism being a single construct, it forms one critical dimension of a series of interrelated, overlapping and interdependent business arrangements that extend beyond the business entity through a series of social networks within the destination region. It is argued that to properly satisfy the accessible tourism market, a more sophisticated understanding of accessible destination experiences is needed by tourism operators. The case study illustrates the considerable size and multi-niche markets served by accessible tourism destinations, the good fit between accessible tourism and TBL sustainable tourism, and the need for further research.
Keywords: accessible tourism; business case study; business case instrument; triple bottom line; universal design; ageing; disability
This paper explores the concept of accessible tourism and its links with triple-bottom-line (TBL) sustainability. Accessible tourism is reviewed through some of its central features including dimensions of access, universal design and the nexus between ageing and disability. The TBL is then examined to better understand the financial, environmental and social considerations that arise from accessible tourism. The research design used in this explorative research incorporated a case study approach, where a business case study instrument was developed. Methods included a Delphi group, review of management information systems, in-depth interviews with key informants, observation and participant observation. The study results revealed that rather than accessible tourism being a single construct, it forms one critical dimension of a series of interrelated, overlapping and interdependent business arrangements that extend beyond the business entity through a series of social networks within the destination region. It is argued that to properly satisfy the accessible tourism market, a more sophisticated understanding of accessible destination experiences is needed by tourism operators. The case study illustrates the considerable size and multi-niche markets served by accessible tourism destinations, the good fit between accessible tourism and TBL sustainable tourism, and the need for further research.
Keywords: accessible tourism; business case study; business case instrument; triple bottom line; universal design; ageing; disability
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Drawing on the last 15 years of research, policy and industry engagement, a way forward for accessible tourism is presented. The approach is based on the development of strategic knowledge management to provide a reliable foundation on... more
Drawing on the last 15 years of research, policy and industry engagement, a way forward for accessible tourism is presented. The approach is based on the development of strategic knowledge management to provide a reliable foundation on which to make informed choices for accessible destination experiences and create a relationship of trust between consumers and suppliers. First, demand research is examined to understand what consumers with disabilities seek when planning their trips and the experiences they desire when travelling. Second, the plenary connects the demand requirements of consumers with disabilities to that of the supply-side approaches of the industry and suggests that government coordination roles at national and regional levels have very important roles to play in developing a triple bottom line approach to accessible tourism. Lastly, an argument is presented that suggests that only by understanding accessible tourism as part of social and environmental sustainability can a sound foundation be put in place to develop the economic potential of this group.
Keywords: accessible tourism; strategic knowledge management; triple bottom line sustainability; trust;
Keywords: accessible tourism; strategic knowledge management; triple bottom line sustainability; trust;
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Studies have identified serious issues with the way that accessible accommodation information is documented, promoted and marketed. Yet, no research has investigated the criteria that people with disabilities determine as ‘important’ to... more
Studies have identified serious issues with the way that accessible accommodation information is documented, promoted and marketed. Yet, no research has investigated the criteria that people with disabilities determine as ‘important’ to selecting accommodation and their preference for presenting this information. This paper presents the results of an online questionnaire to determine the relative importance of room selection criteria through the development of a 55-item Hotel Accessibility Scale. Four information formats were then presented to ascertain the preferences of the respondents. The results suggest that while socio-demographic variables offered some insight into criteria selection, the most significant explanation for criteria selection and information preferences were through the dimensions of disability and level of support needs. The preferred format of accessible accommodation information provision was based on a combination of textual, floorplan and digital photography. The management implications suggest that detailed information provision using this format has benefits for accommodation stock yield and social sustainability.
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Sport-development programmes provide opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth to excel and overcome social inequities. In Australia, all levels of government have identified sport-development programmes in their... more
Sport-development programmes provide opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth to excel and overcome social inequities. In Australia, all levels of government have identified sport-development programmes in their policy responses as a method to redress inequity amongst this population. Yet, a recent report has shown that national sport organisations have been more reactive in establishing anti-discrimination policy and less proactive in cultivating culturally inclusive programmes and meaningful sporting experiences (Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, 2007). At the same time, neo-liberal approaches to policy in Australia have seen the emphasis on grassroots community sport-development shift to third-sector organisations. However, little research has examined how the third-sector organisations operate with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and how culturally inclusive the programmes they deliver are for the communities in which they operate. Three case studies with the objectives of analysing organisational approaches to: structure and governance; sport-development philosophies; and cultural inclusiveness of the programmes, are presented here. The case studies were informed by the cultural lens of Ganma, a theory belonging to the Yolngu community of Yirrkala (Marika, Ngurruwutthun, & White, 1992). The case study method included in-depth interviews with programme leaders, reviews of management information systems and programme observation. The findings provided evidence of the importance of culturally inclusive programmes through governance and an informal lived approach to philosophy and culture. The implications for sports management are discussed, including: the benefits of involving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people at the board level; the need for collaboration between local communities and partners; the explicit need to empower local communities to develop the skills to sustain programmes and outcomes; and the maintenance of mutually beneficial interactions.
Keywords: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander; Sport-development; Cultural inclusiveness; Equity
Keywords: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander; Sport-development; Cultural inclusiveness; Equity
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Soccer in Australia underwent a series of changes following a Federal Government inquiry into its future. A report into the Structure, Governance and Management of Soccer in Australia (2003) recommended a process of structural change,... more
Soccer in Australia underwent a series of changes following a Federal Government inquiry into its future. A report into the Structure, Governance and Management of Soccer in Australia (2003) recommended a process of structural change, aimed at repositioning and re-branding soccer as association football. The restructure yielded the replacement of the National Soccer League with the A-League, five new Australian teams and a concerted attempt to separate soccer from its ethnic ties in the antipodes. This paper examines member identification in relation to a specific A-League club’s members. Using the Sports Spectator Identity Scale (Wann & Branscombe, 1993) to measure sport fan identity in a new team context, a survey of club members of Sydney FC (n = 510), was undertaken. Survey findings indicated that members of Sydney FC reported relatively strong team identification in the first year of the new competition, with some nuanced differences based on age and income. The SSIS demonstrated a good level of fit in relation to a new sports team, although it is evident that rivalries and identification with a new team need time to develop fully.
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Research on disability and cultural life (the arts, leisure, recreation, sport and tourism) in the Australian context has largely been captured by medical approaches to disability. In contrast, this paper takes direction from social... more
Research on disability and cultural life (the arts, leisure, recreation, sport and tourism) in the Australian context has largely been captured by medical approaches to disability. In contrast, this paper takes direction from social approaches to disability that place the experience of people with disabilities (PwD) at the centre of the research paradigm by examining this population's human rights' experiences. The paper is framed by reviewing the United Nations' disability initiatives including the Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities. The research then analyses the implementation and operation of Australia's Disability Discrimination Act, 1992 in respect to the cultural life of PwD. The research design uses a mixed method interpretive approach drawing on the management information systems of the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission and the Federal Court. The analysis of 420 complaint cases and 80 Federal court actions show a relationship between the types of discrimination experienced in cultural life and gender, disability type and industry sector. The recurring themes of discrimination demonstrate an ongoing struggle by PwD to assert their rights of citizenship.
Keywords: disability discrimination; cultural life; citizenship; human rights
Keywords: disability discrimination; cultural life; citizenship; human rights
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Abstract: The research addresses theoretical and conceptual frameworks dealing with the formation and change of attitudes, cognitive dissonance, positive and negative prejudice, the concept of ‘‘spread’’, overt and covert attitudes and... more
Abstract: The research addresses theoretical and conceptual frameworks dealing with the formation and change of attitudes, cognitive dissonance, positive and negative prejudice, the concept of ‘‘spread’’, overt and covert attitudes and their formation, and the nexus between attitudes and behavior toward disability. Two attitude scales—the interaction with disabled persons and the scale of attitudes toward disabled persons—are reviewed and results of two studies are presented. Major findings are that it is easier to change societal attitudes than personal attitudes. Additionally, the use of contact with a person with a disability was more efficacious in changing attitudes than only information provision. Implications for the practice of hospitality and tourism management service provision are discussed.
Keywords: disability, service provision, attitudes.
Keywords: disability, service provision, attitudes.
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A study was conducted into the tourism patterns and experiences of people with physical disabilities in Australia. The research provides the basis for the first comprehensive quantitative study of the tourism patterns and experiences of... more
A study was conducted into the tourism patterns and experiences of people with physical disabilities in Australia. The research provides the basis for the first comprehensive quantitative study of the tourism patterns and experiences of people with physical disabilities in Australia. The methodology was a questionnaire based self completed postal survey conducted with the cooperation, input and design of people with physical disabilities and organisations who represent people with physical disabilities. The questionnaire was mailed to 8500 members of these organisations with over 2700 completed questionnaires returned. The questionnaire sought information about: domestic, overseas and day trip patterns; satisfaction with current level of travel; constraints and specific requirements for travel; reasons for travel and non travel; and demographic information. A range of outcomes from the study will be discussed (strategies for improving access/removing constraints, market estimates etc.).
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Climate clocks are currently ticking down to a point in time when it will be impossible to arrest the rate of CO2 emissions within the bounds of the parameters set by the Paris Climate Agreement. The tourism academy has been at the... more
Climate clocks are currently ticking down to a point in time when it will be impossible to arrest the rate of CO2 emissions within the bounds of the parameters set by the Paris Climate Agreement. The tourism academy has been at the forefront of efforts to draw attention to the climate threat and to develop adaptation and mitigation responses in conjunction with industry. However, whilst the tourism academy is generally said to be in lock-step with the urgency of the climate threat and tourism’s need to respond, outliers do exist. Why might a tourism scholar view the urgency of the climate threat differently from his or her colleagues? Drawing on conceptual insights from Einstein’s Special Theory of Relativity, the present paper explores the sociological framing of time in relation to tourism academics and the implications for the development of a tourism knowledge force-field as a foundation for tourism knowledge creation.
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This paper represents one of the first attempts to empirically measure the social impact of the arts in the field of disability. While arts programs have increasingly found favour in disability communities, these have mainly been oriented... more
This paper represents one of the first attempts to empirically measure the social impact of the arts in the field of disability. While arts programs have increasingly found favour in disability communities, these have mainly been oriented towards some kind of therapeutic outcomes for those with disability. In other words they have not been taken seriously, either in terms of artistic outputs, or in terms of deeper benefits for those with a disability, nor indeed in terms of the potential wider social impact outside that community. At the same time there is anecdotal evidence of increasingly sophisticated, professional performances and exhibitions involving people with disability that are gaining wider public attention and popularity. This paper seeks to establish a means of assessing the potential social impact of these artistic programs. It does so by using a newly developed tool that conceptualizes social impact, not in terms of value for money (though that may also occur) but in ...
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One of the ‘offers’ to host communities from the conduct of mega sport-events such as the Olympic and Paralympic Games is that following the event there would be increased participation in sport and physical activity. For Paralympic... more
One of the ‘offers’ to host communities from the conduct of mega sport-events such as the Olympic and Paralympic Games is that following the event there would be increased participation in sport and physical activity. For Paralympic events, under the auspices of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) there is the further hope that there will be a legacy of increased participation and social inclusion of people with disabilities as the result of hosting the event. Using a contextualist approach, this research explored the reliability of these claims by exploring the case of Whistler Adaptive Sports (WAS) in the lead up to and following the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (Vancouver 2010) that were held in the city of Vancouver and the Resort Municipality of Whistler in British Columbia, Canada. WAS has evolved to leverage off the Vancouver 2010 infrastructure and social development.
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Previous research has highlighted that within the sport and event management literature there is an underrepresentation of disability or parasport research. This has occurred both in the general sport and event management literature as... more
Previous research has highlighted that within the sport and event management literature there is an underrepresentation of disability or parasport research. This has occurred both in the general sport and event management literature as well as the more specific Olympic legacy discourse. The framing of Paralympic legacy is driven by the IPC’s agenda to increase accessibility, develop sporting structures, improve perceptions of disability, and increase opportunities for participation in society. While there have been numerous scholars who have framed the evaluation of Olympic legacies, none have specifically addressed the evaluation of Paralympic legacies. While the IPC closely guard the agenda, other critical disability studies and sport sociology researchers have questioned the legitimacy of legacy beyond the short-term effects
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Surf Life Saving Australia is an Australian icon from both a sporting and a volunteer perspective. Sport organisations and the third sector generally need to understand the social impact they have on society generally and their specific... more
Surf Life Saving Australia is an Australian icon from both a sporting and a volunteer perspective. Sport organisations and the third sector generally need to understand the social impact they have on society generally and their specific constituencies. Do they make a difference to their constituency or to the social life of a community? If they do make a difference, what kind of difference are they making? Most organisations measure the economic impact they have but more often it would be beneficial for an organisation to understand the contribution they make to the social lives of their members and to civil society. This paper is part of a larger study investigating the development of social impact measures for third sector organisations. Specifically this paper seeks to understand how to measure the social capital of an organisation and the social impact that the organisation has on civil society. The research design used a two stage process: 1. The first stage involved a qualitat...
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No abstract availabl
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... Facets of Accessible Tourism Disability and dimensions of access As outlined in Chapter 2, traditionally disability has been largely under-stood through medical approaches in the definition, categorisation and statistical collection of... more
... Facets of Accessible Tourism Disability and dimensions of access As outlined in Chapter 2, traditionally disability has been largely under-stood through medical approaches in the definition, categorisation and statistical collection of data on disability outlined by the World ...
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paramount to positive destination experiences and building capacity in the tourism industry. While economic, social and environmental sustainability have become mantras to understanding the triple bottom line of tourism, rarely has... more
paramount to positive destination experiences and building capacity in the tourism industry. While economic, social and environmental sustainability have become mantras to understanding the triple bottom line of tourism, rarely has government policy or the tourism industry considered ageing and disability within the social construction of tourism environments. For these groups, collectively known as the accessible tourism market, the challenges associated with tourism access are compounded by the cultural context, ...
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In 1995, the International Rugby Board (IRB) took a decision to professionalize the game. Whether this change to the game was evolutionary or revolutionary is arguable but there is no doubt that rugby fans witnessed a significant change... more
In 1995, the International Rugby Board (IRB) took a decision to professionalize the game. Whether this change to the game was evolutionary or revolutionary is arguable but there is no doubt that rugby fans witnessed a significant change to the organization of the sport that historically prided itself on its amateur status. Amateur traditions were challenged by corporatization and an emphasis on developing accountable and transparent organizational governance structures. In this context, hosting the 2003 IRB World Cup provided the ARU ...
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Abstract Psychological contract theory is used here to explore the set of expectations and obligations that community sport club volunteers regard as part of their volunteering experience. In the first phase of the research, focus group... more
Abstract Psychological contract theory is used here to explore the set of expectations and obligations that community sport club volunteers regard as part of their volunteering experience. In the first phase of the research, focus group interviews were conducted with 98 community sports club administrators about the methods used to manage volunteers and the organisational expectations of the volunteers. In phase two, 48 general volunteers were interviewed about their expectations and perceptions of the club's volunteer management ...
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Research Interests: Geography, Publishing, Sustainable Communities, Ecotourism, Tourism Geography, and 12 moreRural Tourism, Sustainable Tourism, Social Impact Assessment, Social sustainability, Tourism, Academic research, RECREATION, Commissioning, Nature tourism, Community Sustainability, University Technology Sydney, and Sustainability
The ongoing fallout from the global financial crisis has served to exemplify that business today is under significant internal and external pressures. [Introduction extract]
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Over recent years there has been an increasing body of work on the intersections between disability, ageing and tourism. This research aims to provide a review of the last 30 years of the Australian accessible tourism industry. It has... more
Over recent years there has been an increasing body of work on the intersections between disability, ageing and tourism. This research aims to provide a review of the last 30 years of the Australian accessible tourism industry. It has been completed in Australia (Darcy, 1998, 2000, 2002; Darcy & Daruwalla, 1999, 2000; Daruwalla, 1999; O'Neill & Ali Knight, 2000), Canada (Foggin, 2000), as well as in the USA (Burnett & Bender-Baker, 2001; Harris Interactive Market Research, 2003; Ray & Ryder, 2003), UK (English Tourism Council, ...
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Research Interests: Population and RECREATION
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Research Interests: Tourism and Encyclopedia
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The leading authors/editors of Benchmark Games, Adjunct Professor and Director of the Australian Centre for Olympic Studies, Richard Cashman, and Associate Professor and Research Director in the School of Leisure, Sport and Tourism, Simon... more
The leading authors/editors of Benchmark Games, Adjunct Professor and Director of the Australian Centre for Olympic Studies, Richard Cashman, and Associate Professor and Research Director in the School of Leisure, Sport and Tourism, Simon Darcy, are based at the University of Technology, Sydney. Cashman is a prolific author, having researched and published extensively on Australian sport and the Sydney Olympics. Darcy has been a leader in the field of sport, tourism and diversity management, particularly in relation to social justice, access and inclusion for people with a disability. There are seven other contributors to this book, providing an ‘‘eclectic approach’’ including sport and event management research and expertise as well as the academic discipline areas of history, politics, sociology, biomechanics, media, Olympic and disability studies (p. 2). The main focus of Benchmark Games is on the organization, legacy and worth of the Sydney 2000 Paralympics. In this it is unique, as there is no other work that provides such a comprehensive, well-researched and written evaluation of a Paralympic Games that is suitable for general readership as well as for those with a sport and event management interest. Benchmark Games is divided into three parts, starting with an overview of the history of the Paralympic Games, the pre-Sydney 2000 benchmarks of this major international event and its key features. Part II provides an indepth analysis of key organizational and diversity management issues of the Sydney Paralympics including benchmarking and evaluation, planning, media, community engagement, sport delivery, infrastructure issues, the athlete village and inclusion/exclusion of athletes with an intellectual disability in these Games. Part III gives a succinct and well-considered overview of the legacy of the Sydney Paralympics as well as a summary of the research gaps and promising areas for future exploration. This structure works well, giving the reader the broader context and essential concepts from which the in-depth analysis of the Sydney Games is elaborated upon and the benchmarking conclusions are made. Broad questions ‘‘touched on’’ in this book include: the relationship between the Paralympic and the Olympic Games; the strengths and weaknesses of the event and whether the Paralympics are a positive force for disabled sport, raising greater
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The consumption of culture is one of the most important aspects of tourism activity. Cultural tourism includes experiencing local culture, traditions and lifestyle, participation in arts-related activities, and visits to museums,... more
The consumption of culture is one of the most important aspects of tourism activity. Cultural tourism includes experiencing local culture, traditions and lifestyle, participation in arts-related activities, and visits to museums, monuments and heritage sites. This book reviews a wide range of qualitative and quantitative research methods applied to the field of cultural tourism, including surveys, mystery tourist visits, visitor tracking, grand tour narratives, collage, researcher-created video, photo-based interviews, ethnographic and actor-network approaches. It provides a practical guide on how to conduct research as well as a discussion and evaluation of the methods.
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An oligopoly is a market form in which a market or industry is dominated by a small number of sellers (oligopolists). (Wikipedia) Monopsony: a market where a single buyer substantially controls the market as the major purchaser of goods... more
An oligopoly is a market form in which a market or industry is dominated by a small number of sellers (oligopolists). (Wikipedia) Monopsony: a market where a single buyer substantially controls the market as the major purchaser of goods and services. (Wikipedia) Abstract Some parts of the Australian non-profit sector sector has been growing much faster than others and that significant increases in revenue have mainly accrued to a group of large, multi-service, national social service organisations, a group Dalton and Butcher (2014) refer to as " Big Charity ". In various policy domains, Big Charity appears to exert disproportionate influence in various areas of social services provision. In this paper we focus on the emergence of Big Charity and examine the implications for the delivery of services under the proposed National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The Scheme will is likely to open up a new market but, in the context of the rising market dominance of larger charities, we ask if this will lead to a rationalisation of the sector in favour of larger providers of disability services.