Yes / The full-text of this article will be released for public view at the end of the publisher embargo, 24 months after first publication.

The applied tourism research community is characterized by a large and growing group of research producers and users; communications and networking amongst its members can build the capacity of the community and create knowledge networks along its social, cultural, and organizational boundaries. The purpose of this thesis research is to examine the role of tourism research associations in the social structuring of a cohesive applied research community and, consequently, in the fostering of its growth. Following an embedded single case design, the study uses the Travel and Tourism Research Association (TTRA hereafter) as an example of an applied tourism research community. The research examines members’ perceptions of the association in the capacity-building of the membership community through research communications and professional networks. Based on documentary sources, an instrument was developed for primary data collection through an online census of TTRA members. Data collection was completed in the Spring of 2007, with a response rate of 28.7%. Data analysis is guided by hypothesis, with results of the case study described and discussed in the contexts of research communications, knowledge networks, scientific community, and research association planning and management. First, with respect to research communication, a number of social demographic factors are found to have exerted an impact on media use frequencies and decisions, and perceptions of research communication in the membership community. Notably, these include members’ occupations, career stages, membership categories, and research-oriented training. The chapter structure of TTRA does not affect members’ behaviour in research communication. However, the study confirms a distinction between academics and practitioners and lends support to discussions on the two-community theory concerning cultural and functional differences in producing and consuming research. The study also finds that TTRA-endorsed media are of limited use in the membership community for professional communication. In addition, association members form distinct clusters by the frequency and variety of information sources they have consulted for research communication. Second, in terms of networks or networking amongst TTRA members, types and extent of member interactions are influenced by members’ occupations, in particular whether the member is an academic or practitioner. Professional networks are formed on the basis of research interests and expertise; so are the perceptions of research networks and the perceived role of TTRA in professional networking affected by gender, career stage, membership positions, and disciplinary and research-oriented preparations. The study finds that the strengths of ties amongst members are both causes and consequences of the size of a community or network. TTRA is generally perceived as becoming too academic and, in light of this, the association is seen as an important facilitator of scholarly networks. Nonetheless, the association community is characterized by pro-academic and pro-practitioner clusters in terms of membership perceptions of research networks and their attitudes towards networking. In addition, while chapter affiliations do not have an impact on network perceptions and behaviour, results from this study point to the facilitator role of association conferences for research communication, professional networking and association capacity-building. Third, the facilitator role of the association for community capacity-building is widely acknowledged by its members. Respondents see professional networking and association conference venue as particularly important factors in attracting attendance from the membership community. The study confirms the essential role of conferences in building a sense of community for a research association. There is a considerable degree of consensus amongst members on their perceptions of TTRA as a community. Homogeneous clusters are formed by membership perceptions of a community and their willingness or engagement in community service provisions. Conceptually, the clusters developed around (or for) research communication, networking and association capacity-building are highly consistent in terms of pattern matching in case study analysis. The research has also discussed theoretical and practical implications, some of which are expressed as recommendations for association planning and management. The study concludes with reflections on limitations and prospects for future inquiries.

The applied tourism research community is characterized by a large and growing group of research producers and users; communications and networking amongst its members can build the capacity of the community and create knowledge networks along its social, cultural, and organizational boundaries. The purpose of this thesis research is to examine the role of tourism research associations in the social structuring of a cohesive applied research community and, consequently, in the fostering of its growth. Following an embedded single case design, the study uses the Travel and Tourism Research Association (TTRA hereafter) as an example of an applied tourism research community. The research examines members’ perceptions of the association in the capacity-building of the membership community through research communications and professional networks. Based on documentary sources, an instrument was developed for primary data collection through an online census of TTRA members. Data collection was completed in the Spring of 2007, with a response rate of 28.7%. Data analysis is guided by hypothesis, with results of the case study described and discussed in the contexts of research communications, knowledge networks, scientific community, and research association planning and management. First, with respect to research communication, a number of social demographic factors are found to have exerted an impact on media use frequencies and decisions, and perceptions of research communication in the membership community. Notably, these include members’ occupations, career stages, membership categories, and research-oriented training. The chapter structure of TTRA does not affect members’ behaviour in research communication. However, the study confirms a distinction between academics and practitioners and lends support to discussions on the two-community theory concerning cultural and functional differences in producing and consuming research. The study also finds that TTRA-endorsed media are of limited use in the membership community for professional communication. In addition, association members form distinct clusters by the frequency and variety of information sources they have consulted for research communication. Second, in terms of networks or networking amongst TTRA members, types and extent of member interactions are influenced by members’ occupations, in particular whether the member is an academic or practitioner. Professional networks are formed on the basis of research interests and expertise; so are the perceptions of research networks and the perceived role of TTRA in professional networking affected by gender, career stage, membership positions, and disciplinary and research-oriented preparations. The study finds that the strengths of ties amongst members are both causes and consequences of the size of a community or network. TTRA is generally perceived as becoming too academic and, in light of this, the association is seen as an important facilitator of scholarly networks. Nonetheless, the association community is characterized by pro-academic and pro-practitioner clusters in terms of membership perceptions of research networks and their attitudes towards networking. In addition, while chapter affiliations do not have an impact on network perceptions and behaviour, results from this study point to the facilitator role of association conferences for research communication, professional networking and association capacity-building. Third, the facilitator role of the association for community capacity-building is widely acknowledged by its members. Respondents see professional networking and association conference venue as particularly important factors in attracting attendance from the membership community. The study confirms the essential role of conferences in building a sense of community for a research association. There is a considerable degree of consensus amongst members on their perceptions of TTRA as a community. Homogeneous clusters are formed by membership perceptions of a community and their willingness or engagement in community service provisions. Conceptually, the clusters developed around (or for) research communication, networking and association capacity-building are highly consistent in terms of pattern matching in case study analysis. The research has also discussed theoretical and practical implications, some of which are expressed as recommendations for association planning and management. The study concludes with reflections on limitations and prospects for future inquiries.

Thesis submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree Master of Technology: Sport Management in the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology / Volunteer tourism, as a form of leisure and/or recreation, is one of the fastest growing forms of tourism globally. It has also become a critical human resource for many organisations in the Western Cape, South Africa who rely on the support of volunteer tourists. A review of the current literature showed that most volunteer tourism research studies is volunteer-tourist-centred and focus on the motivations for participation and the benefits of participation to the volunteer tourist. Very few studies consider the effect of volunteer tourism on the host organisation and within the South African context only two volunteer tourist profile studies exist. Both studies excluded host organisation factors that indicated how host organisations benefited from hosting volunteer tourists. This research study focussed on creating a comprehensive profile of volunteer tourists at SANCCOB (a non-profit seabird rehabilitation centre) in Table View, Western Cape, South Africa. The profile included demographic factors, motivational factors and SANCCOB specific information. Data were collected through an anonymous, self-administered, online questionnaire and from the data, five conclusions were made. Firstly, the demographic factors of volunteer tourists that participated in SANCCOB’s international volunteer programme was similar to other South African based volunteer tourism studies. Secondly, to experience something different and new was the most important motivational factor for volunteer tourists. Thirdly, volunteer tourists derived considerable benefit from volunteering at SANCCOB. Fourthly, volunteer tourists continued to support SANCCOB through social and financial activities after completing the programme, indicating that SANCCOB (as a host organisation) benefited from hosting volunteer tourists and that as a result, a mutually beneficial relationship exists between this host organisation and the volunteer tourist. Lastly, this study provided SANCCOB with valuable information for volunteer management, as well as future marketing and fundraising campaigns.

The thesis acquaints with issues and problems of research on tourism, summarizes existing knowledge and development of this theme. It also addresses the issue of institutional, legislative and financial security of research in the Czech Republic (research in general and specifically research on tourism) and the current problems with which the research on tourism meets in the Czech Republic. The thesis also maps out the research activities of some foreign institutions and organizations. Part of the thesis forms the design of the concept "research on tourism" definition and its division into basic and applied research.

Masters in Public Administration - MPA / The topic of this mini-thesis evolved out of the author's internship at the Centre for Tourism Research in Africa and his own background in Kampala/Uganda. Both the Western Cape and the Kampala regions ~d as significant tourism regions, with most of the attention falling on formal sector facilities for middle to higher income visitors.

The literature reviews on tourist satisfaction revealed that a satisfied tourist leads to positive word of mouth recommendation to friends and family, loyalty (return visits), competitive advantage and long-term profitability and sustainability. These favourable benefits resulting from satisfaction are necessary for any destination to survive in the competitive tourism industry. South African National Parks (SANParks) manages all 21 national parks in South Africa, with the TNP being the third in terms of visitor numbers and income generated from tourism products. Data captured from visitors to the TNP was used to achieve the goal and objective of this study. This goal was achieved by conducting a questionnaire survey at Storm’s River rest camp within the TNP from 01 May to 31 July 2015. A total of 120 questionnaires were completed and included in further analysis. The aim of this research was to determine the relationship between satisfaction, service and travel motivations of the visitors to the TNP. The statistical test was used to determine whether or not visitors’ expectations were met. This was also used to determine the relationship between travel behaviour, travel motives, and service satisfaction of the visitors to the TNP. Park management can use these results as tools to ensure that the product offered guarantees visitors’ satisfaction and therefore contributes to long-term park sustainability. Therefore, park management is able to obtain the ideal tourist experience by not only focusing on the travel motives but also on the quality of service delivered at the park. The results showed that park management needs to become aware of what the visitor sees as important factors for a memorable visitor experience and they can adapt certain aspects to improve the visitor’s experience. Park management can therefore improve their services and products as well as the quality thereof by knowing what the tourists see as important when visiting a national park to obtain a memorable experience, which will lead to positive word of mouth sharing, loyalty, increased revenue and sustainability of the TNP.

This thesis adopts critical feminist theory, which is a combination of both critical theory and feminist theory, to explore the nature and experiences of Omani women involved in tourism entrepreneurship with particular regard to empowerment. Several studies have identified the potential role of tourism entrepreneurship to empower women due to the many benefits that it provides. However, this potential, and the extent that it empowers women, has been questioned. A review of the literature on women in tourism entrepreneurship reveals that there are several issues that have theoretical and practical implications for women's empowerment through this activity. Furthermore, a review of the development studies literature indicates that there are many prevailing issues and debates surrounding the concept of women's empowerment thatmerit further investigation. The fieldwork for this research took place in Oman during 2013-­‐2014 and included an examination of a hosting group, sewing group and a number of women tourism entrepreneurs. Participant observations and semi-structured/unstructured interviews were conducted to collect information about these women. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the collected information and to develop three ethnographic case studies. The findings of this research reveal that tourism entrepreneurship does not inevitably bring about empowerment for Omani women. It is far from being an activity for women's individual and collective empowerment, given that the scope for such remains dependent on the embedded environment and is influenced by the nature of tourism enterprise work. An empirically informed conceptual framework was developed from the data to present this phenomenon. A grounded conceptualization was also developed from the data to conceptualize the process of women's empowerment for Omani women in tourism entrepreneurship. Theoretical implications of the findings areidentified in relation to the appropriate use of the concept of women's empowerment in tourism research. Practical implications of the findings are also identified in relation to local and international tourism organisations that utilises tourism entrepreneurship opportunities for women's empowerment purposes.

A discussão sobre a pesquisa faz-se necessária em todas as áreas do conhecimento, tanto para seu aprimoramento como para atualização e busca constante da qualidade. Assim, esta dissertação, procura discutir e analisar a pesquisa em Turismo, suas tendências e limitações. A primeira parte desta dissertação constitui-se de uma pesquisa bibliográfica, ou seja, uma análise e comparação entre autores para a compreensão dos diversos métodos de pesquisa existentes. A segunda parte verifica, através de pesquisa exploratória com Mestres e Doutores formados por Programas Stricto Sensu de Turismo no Brasil, as influências, limitações e considerações destes pesquisadores a respeito do processo de pesquisa. Os resultados mostraram a predominância no uso pesquisa exploratória e na estratégia de pesquisa de campo nas dissertações de Mestrado. Neste sentido, entendemos a importância deste trabalho como uma contribuição ao estudo da teoria e prática de métodos de investigação científica aplicado à pesquisa em Turismo. / The discussion on Academic Research is necessary in all areas of knowledge, not only improving its quality but also to provide continuous update in the quality. This dissertation discusses and analyzes the research on the Tourism field, its status and limitations. In the first part of this dissertation we have tried through a library research design an analysis and comparison among authors in order to understand the several given definitions on research methods. The second part provides through exploratory research with Master and Doctors graduated in Stricto Sensu Tourism programs in Brazil, the influences, limitations and considerations. In this sense, we understand the importance of this work as a contribution to the study of theory and practice of Research Methods applied to Tourism research.

A discussão sobre a pesquisa faz-se necessária em todas as áreas do conhecimento, tanto para seu aprimoramento como para atualização e busca constante da qualidade. Assim, esta dissertação, procura discutir e analisar a pesquisa em Turismo, suas tendências e limitações. A primeira parte desta dissertação constitui-se de uma pesquisa bibliográfica, ou seja, uma análise e comparação entre autores para a compreensão dos diversos métodos de pesquisa existentes. A segunda parte verifica, através de pesquisa exploratória com Mestres e Doutores formados por Programas Stricto Sensu de Turismo no Brasil, as influências, limitações e considerações destes pesquisadores a respeito do processo de pesquisa. Os resultados mostraram a predominância no uso pesquisa exploratória e na estratégia de pesquisa de campo nas dissertações de Mestrado. Neste sentido, entendemos a importância deste trabalho como uma contribuição ao estudo da teoria e prática de métodos de investigação científica aplicado à pesquisa em Turismo. / The discussion on Academic Research is necessary in all areas of knowledge, not only improving its quality but also to provide continuous update in the quality. This dissertation discusses and analyzes the research on the Tourism field, its status and limitations. In the first part of this dissertation we have tried through a library research design an analysis and comparison among authors in order to understand the several given definitions on research methods. The second part provides through exploratory research with Master and Doctors graduated in Stricto Sensu Tourism programs in Brazil, the influences, limitations and considerations. In this sense, we understand the importance of this work as a contribution to the study of theory and practice of Research Methods applied to Tourism research.