First published in 1971, Experiments in Recreation Research examines critically the techniques of assessment, measurement, and projection for use in studies of the supply and demand aspects of sport and recreation. The research was carried out in two main parts—first, a desk study of previous social research relating to recreation, covering such areas as questionnaire and interview surveys, time budget diaries, non-survey methods of data collection and forecasting techniques; and second, a series of experimental studies which seek to throw more light on the usefulness of particular techniques and concepts for the future planning of recreation opportunities.
The merit of the book lies in its application of social research and statistical methods to recreation planning problems. Many of the experimental studies—such as those employing cluster and factor analyses and gravity models—have direct and immediate relevance to the solution of specific planning problems. Because of this, the book will be of vital concern to town planners as well as to those persons involved in the planning and management of urban and rural recreation facilities of many kinds. It should also be of interest to research workers and teachers in other fields where techniques of this kind might be applicable.
Prologue Part 1: A Methodological Review of Recent Recreation Studies 1. Collection of Recreation Data 2. Analysis of Recreation Data 3. Forecasting 4. The Experimental Studies Part 2: The Household and Activities Survey 5. Structure and Organization of the Survey 6. Response to the Survey 7. The Time Budget Diaries 8. Recreation Types 9. Profile Data Part 3: The Measurement of Supply 10. Compiling an Inventory of Opportunity 11. Demand-Supply Relationships Part 4: Forecasting 12. Some Major Problems of Forecasting Part 5: A Strategy for the Provision of Recreation Facilities by A.J. Veal 13. The Theory 14. Data Collection for the Experiments 15. The Experiments Epilogue
Biography
Thomas L. Burton
Review of the first publication:
‘…represents an excellent recreation researcher's guide, and is a valuable contribution to the literature.’
— Michael J. Heit, Journal of Leisure Research
