BA (Hons) International Hospitality and Tourism Management

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://eresearch.qmu.ac.uk/handle/20.500.12289/7243

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Farm to Plate; Exploring the Relationship between Chefs and Producers
(Queen Margaret University, 2015)
This research project aims to explore the chef-producer relationship and to investigate the role this plays in the procurement of food in award winning restaurants. Furthermore, the study attempts to locate the issues of provenance, organic and local within this context. In addition, concepts such as quality, the distribution of food and the role that Farmers Markets play in this will be explored. This study was conducted using a qualitative approach. Using a purposive sample, a series of nine semi-structured interviews were carried out with 3 local food producers, 1 local food distributor and 5 highly acclaimed chefs from restaurants in Edinburgh. Using an inductive approach, a thematic analysis of the data was carried out, driven by the theoretical framework developed in the literature review. Issues of ethics, bias, credibility and validity were all addressed. Key findings from the study supported aspects of the literature reviewed and presented new information on aspects of the relationship from the perspectives of both the chefs and producers in this study. The relationship appears to be fundamentally important to the success of their businesses. All participants in the study share a passion and drive to achieve the same end goal of producing and promoting the best quality food produce. Overall the findings satisfied the research objectives outlined, resulting in the research aim being met. Recommendations for this study include possible areas for further research and changes to the methodology that would be of benefit should similar research be carried out in the future. Possible suggestions to improve future chef-producer relationships will also be discussed.
Deadly success of the fast food industry: An investigation into how fast food chains promote so-called healthier options.
(Queen Margaret University, 2015)
Fast food is having an increasing impact on people's health and the planet that we live in. Consumers of fast food products are often unaware of the nutritional value of the foods which can result in poor diet choices. The aim of this research project is to identify and examine healthy options being offered at fast food chains and the popularity of these options. The project purposes to determine if the fast food industry is sustainable and to explore the main effects of marketing and advertising carried out by the industry. In order to collect primary research a number of interviews were conducted with various managers of fast food chains. The key findings of the study are as follows; there is a current lack of demand for healthy options within the fast food industry, increased marketing by numerous chains is having a major influence on what consumers are choosing to eat and finally that sustainable practises are in place within fast food chains but the number of strategies being used needs to be developed. An increase in the range of healthy options available on menus and better promotion of these items could create a surge in demand for them. Consumers need to be made more aware of the nutritional content of the healthy options in order for them to make improved diet choices. In order for the fast food industry to lower the impact they have on the environment to a minimum more sustainable practises need to be implemented throughout fast food chains.
An exploration of the perceptions' of chefs regarding entomophagy in Michelin and Rosette awarded restaurants - a case study of Edinburgh's finest chefs.
(Queen Margaret University, 2015)
The 21st Century has seen an increase in the number of developments aiming to introduce insects into the Western diet. This study explores the perceptions of chefs in Edinburgh, Scotland working in the hospitality industry. Interviews were conducted to provide an insight into the views and opinions of chefs regarding the adoption of insect cuisine on their menus. Literature claims that the modeling of insect cuisine from chefs is important for the introduction of edible insects on menus. The key focus of this research is to analyse the perceptions and willingness of chefs in the local area on their views about using insects on their menus. To achieve this, a qualitative research approach was adopted. From a purposive sample of six chefs, the researcher conducted six semi-structured interviews. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. An inductive analysis approach was adopted using a thematic analysis which helped highlight a number of important issues within the data. These themes were crossed between the data and the literature using a constant comparative technique. The study findings highlight the knowledge of chefs about insect cuisine is an important factor towards the introduction of edible insects on menus. In relation, it was discovered by the researcher the level of enthusiasm also had an impact on their perceptions. The more enthusiastic the participant, the more open to ideas they were about insect cuisine. It was concluded therefore that education to increase chef and consumer knowledge is essential to increase the chances of edible insects featuring on the menus of Edinburgh restaurants. This research provides empirical evidence on the subject of entomophagy. However, the researcher believes a change in perception, and alternative research methods is required to help not only promote awareness of insect cuisine but to also gain a greater understanding of its potential, with respect to different locations other than Edinburgh.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainability: Can Positive CSR Credentials Provide a Competitive Advantage to 4/5 Star Hotels in Edinburgh?
(Queen Margaret University, 2015)
According to Cherapanukorn and Focken (2014), the tourism and hospitality industry claims to embrace the concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR) but it seems unclear how and if companies integrate CSR activities into the core business and how they demonstrate real impacts, positive changes and company success. The purpose of this study is to investigate if positive CSR credentials provide a competitive advantage to 4/5 star hotels and; how managers are incorporating these credentials into their day-to-day business. The study is based on 4/5 star hotels in Edinburgh and adopts a qualitative research method. The researcher conducted five in-depth interviews with managers, duty managers and human resource managers of different hotel companies in Edinburgh in order to obtain and analyse important and valuable information on the subject of CSR and sustainability. The results shows that it is crucial organisations adopt some form of CSR initiatives in order to gain a competitive advantage. This being that there is a growing emphasis on the contribution to saving the planet and acting sustainably in all aspects. With that; the increase in environmentally conscious consumers in the market means that, if organisations do not implement substantial CSR initiatives and practices into their day-to-day business then this may cause a significant negative impact to the organisation in the future, in terms of competitive advantage, customer loyalty and brand reputation. The study goes on to give recommendations on how hotel managers can raise awareness and educate stakeholders on the importance of CSR and sustainability.
An investigation into the management strategies within historic tourism sites in Edinburgh and the Scottish Borders. Conservation versus Tourism Experience
(Queen Margaret University, 2015)
Conservation and visitor experience are extremely important for a historic tourism attractions sustainability. Conservation efforts must be made in order to maintain the buildings, in order to ensure that future generation will be able to enjoy them. From an economic perspective however, the attractions heavily rely on tourism as a source of funding. This therefore means it is essential to ensure that visitors have a good experience within the site. This causes many issues within the management strategies, as one aspect can be seen to directly impact another. The aim of the study stems from this complexity. "To investigate the management strategies needed within Historic Tourism sites to facilitate conservation practices and maintain visitor experience." The method of collecting data used within this study is qualitative research. Semi- structured interviews were carried out with managers from sites within the Scottish Borders and Edinburgh. This allowed the researcher to gain an in depth understanding of the problems faced by managers whilst trying to manage the site. The investigation has highlighted the difficulties faced by managers when trying to maintain conservation efforts, as well as providing a great experience for visitors. The research has established that it is extremely fine balance between both aspects, as both heavily rely on the other with regards to sustainability. It has been expressed that although tourism contributes to the damage of these buildings, the attractions rely on tourism as the primary source of funding for maintaining the building, as well as financing any conservation projects. The study has highlighted that visitor experience is affected by conservation efforts within these sites, however, when the visitors have gained an understanding of the importance of the conservation carried out, visitor satisfaction is less likely to be affected.
An Investigation into Ethical Management within Scottish Dark Tourism
(Queen Margaret University, 2015)
The aim of this dissertation is to gain a clear understanding of the current ethical issues regarding dark tourism, and the ways in which Scottish dark tourism businesses acknowledge and address them. The paper seeks to understand what exactly constitutes ethical dark tourism. The primary research was conducted, focusing on Scottish dark tourism businesses. A qualitative research method was used, in the form of semi-structured, one to one interviews. The findings were then manually coded, for analysis and discussion. The results indicate that certain dark tourism businesses do act unethically, and exploit the subject of death and suffering, in order to be profitable. Furthermore, some businesses were found to disregard authenticity and historical accuracy within their dark tourism product. Interestingly, the term dark tourism itself was found to spark the most debate and interest within the study. All interviewees agreed that the umbrella term could be considered confusing, disrespectful and to incorporate too many forms of attraction, and therefore did not like to associate their business with the term. It is therefore recommended that the term be disregarded, and instead broken down into other terms such as: Grief tourism, Social-history tourism, Entertainment-based dark tourism and Supernatural tourism It is hoped that the findings form this study, will encourage dark tourism businesses to consider their ethos and ethical consideration in addressing social responsibility. Furthermore, the study may encourage further academic study into dark tourism, as, although the term is widely researched, it is rarely applied into the practical industry of tourism. In order to gain a deeper understanding of the issue, a much wider study is advised, in order to analyse darker destinations and their approach to ethics.
An investigation into the impacts outsourcing has on job satisfaction within the Splendid Hospitality Group in Edinburgh.
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
The aim of this dissertation is to investigate why the Splendid Hospitality Group (SHG) has introduced outsourcing to their two hotels in Edinburgh and to identify what effects outsourcing is having on the job satisfaction of both insourced and outsourced employees as well as managers. The paper also seeks to gain a full perspective of the differing employee attitudes towards the outsourcing strategy. Firstly, secondary research was carried out in order to define the term "outsourcing" and to recognize the pros and cons that the outsourcing strategy can have on an organisation and especially, the hotel industry. Following this, primary research was conducted which focused on the experiences and opinions from both insourced and outsourced employees as well as managers in regards to outsourcing within the Splendid Hospitality Group. A qualitative research method was used where six semi-structured, face-to-face interviews were conducted which involved two insourced employees, two outsourced employees as well as two managers of the Splendid Hospitality Group. The data was later transcribed from recordings which were then manually coded where the researcher identified main themes. The themes included the reason to outsource, job performance, conflict between insourced and outsourced employees and the benefits of outsourcing. Moreover, the data was critically discussed which gave an insight into how outsourcing is affecting job satisfaction and the impact this has on a hotel as an organisation within a competitive market. Interestingly, all but one of the interviewees agreed that outsourcing only impacts negatively on a hotel which has resulted in these participants experiencing challenges such as poor job performance and communication barriers between departments. Moreover, both outsourced employees confirmed feelings of dissatisfaction within their employment which further added to the poor performance of the SHG hotels. Therefore, a set of recommendations were applied where the Splendid Hospitality Group can continue using the outsourcing strategy in a way that will allow job satisfaction amongst employees in order to prevent danger to the organisation's reputation.
Factors motivating employee: case study of four and five star hotels in Edinburgh.
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
This study is focused on finding the important factors of extrinsic an intrinsic motivation affecting motivation in four and five-star hotel of Edinburgh. The study of employee motivation has been a focus of many researchers and scholars for years.. From organisational perspective motivation is important as the central aspect for all organisation to motivate their employee is to empower high performing employees to stay with the organisation. However, on the other hand trough a higher degree of motivation provided at workplace employees can develop their overall skills in their specific job and be more engaged at higher level. Although there are many theories this study focuses on two theoretical models i.e. Maslow (1949) Hierarchy of Need and Herzberg's' (1959) Two factor theory of motivation In this study factors pertaining to employee motivation are based on these theory and will be merge with data gathered from quantitative strategies to get better understanding on important factor of motivation. The quantitative data relies upon survey. This study builds on fundamental of Herzberg's Two factor theory of motivation (Herzberg 1959). The findings of this study can help the organisation to Design an objective way of measuring employee performance after the implication of motivational factors.
An investigation into the influence of dog ownership on consumer behaviour and motivations towards travel.
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
This research project investigates the extent of the influence that dog ownership has on owner's behaviours and motivations within the leisure and tourism industry whilst assessing the overall levels of demand and satisfaction for dog-friendly establishments within the UK. This cross-sectional study has followed the interpretivist and constructionist theories collecting qualitative primary data, through semi-structured interviews and diary methods, from a convenience sample of both industry experts and dog-owners. The foundation of this project is based on the human-dog relationship which is explored in depth and as a result the influence this has upon their owner's leisure and tourism activities. The results of this study suggest that the significance of the relationship between owners and their dogs has resulted in a huge increase in demand for dog-friendly tourism within the UK as owners want to include their companion animals in their travel planning and indeed leisure and tourism related activities. Despite there being a huge demand for dog-friendly facilities, it is evident that the tourism industry needs to be doing more to provide for this market segment in terms of satisfaction, whilst minimising the constraints involved when travelling with dogs. Research findings demonstrated that a greater choice of dog-friendly establishments as well as facilities/services and appropriate measures are required in order to further develop dog-friendly tourism. Such findings within this study have contributed towards dog-owners expectations and has identified ways in which the industry can improve the quality of their facilities and services to better accommodate dog-friendly tourism, by bridging the gap between the consumers demand and the tourism industries supply of dog-friendly products. Recommendations include the development of a dog-friendly Quality Assurance measure to improve the information available to dog owners, meet and exceed expectations and improve the quality of the services provided. This study also provides valuable research on a widely understudied topic by creating increased awareness of this innovative niche market both in academia and within the tourism industry, which this study demonstrates has the potential to grow significantly in the future.
A study of consumer attitudes and behavioural intentions concerning restaurant sustainability in Scotland.
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
ABSTRACT Purpose-Thisstudy aimsto investigate consumersresiding in Scotland, to ascertain theirattitudes and perceptions towards restaurant sustainability and measure how it affects their behaviour with regardto restaurant attendance and spending. Design/methodology-A quantitative method approach was taken to conduct this study. Online questionnaires were used as a data collection tool, which were successful in gathering consumer demographical data, measuring their knowledge of sustainability and awareness of sustainable restaurants, attitudes toward sustainability implementation within restaurants, most important sustainable restaurant attributes and intentions to return and spend more to dine at sustainable restaurants. Findings-Findingsof the study show that Scottish consumers support sustainability and believe its implementation inrestaurants is important; however participants are not aware of sustainable restaurants in their local area.The findings also show that sustainability attributes do not significantly influence consumer restaurant choice and it can be assumed that consumers expect sustainable practices to be implemented as standard restaurant attributes. The study also found that sustainability positively affects consumer behavioral intentions as participants are morelikely to revisit a sustainable restaurant (over a non-sustainable restaurant) andarewilling to pay slightly more to dine at one. Some variables of participant demographicsare foundto be significant with regard to consumer knowledge, perception of sustainability and consumer revisit intention, but otherwise insignificant. Furthermore, knowledge of sustainability seemsto be importantregarding participant behavioral intentions Research Limitations-Insufficient results were gathered to represent older participants of the studywhich suggests that this needs to be investigated further. Further researchusing qualitativeresearch methods is also required to explain certain attitudes and behaviours of consumers regarding restaurant sustainability. Lastly, this study measuresconsumer behavioural intentions rather than the actual behaviour. While it can be assumed that consumerswill behave according to their stated intentions, the research cannot confirm this would be followed throughin practice.
Working with demanding customers. What motivates employees within the five-star hotel environment? An empirical case study at Waldorf Astoria, The Caledonian.
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
Aim: This research analyses the factors motivating employees within five-star hotel environment to work within a high service level environment and how management can best motivate their employees. Design and Methodological Approach The study follows an empirical caste study research strategy, with a mixed-methods approach, using questionnaires and structured interviews that gathers data from a non-probable convenient sample of sixty-eight questionnaire participants, working within Waldorf Astoria, The Caledonian, five individuals having management position within the same organisation. The gathered data was then analysed and triangulated to show the various answers and views. Key Findings: Key finding identify that the individuals understanding of motivation within the studied organisation is relatively increasing, as training processes appeared as specifically important for individuals, but there is a greater effort required in order to motivate and stimulate individuals within workforces effectively. Identifiable were several motivational factors for individuals, where the strongest motivators identified by employees were the opportunities for development and personal goal pursuit, followed by the feeling of being valued and having enjoyable work. As specific engaging processes were defined trainings, alignment with organisational goals and company success. Management motivational practice, specific for the five-star hotel environment happened to be employee empowerment as it provides employees with the authority to complete specific tasks and satisfy more demanding guests. Future Recommendations The key future recommendation for future research, is the need to categorise employees demographically by gender, age, department, length of employment and to further investigate factors to employee motivation. Another key recommendation for future research appeared to be the opportunity for in depth investigation on the effect of employee engagement towards employees' opportunities for development.
An investigation into the experiences of volunteer tourists in Kenya
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
The aim of this dissertation is to investigate the experience of the volunteer tourists, how they perceived their relationship with the community and the company as well as their thoughts on the use of their time and money, and how they saw changes as a result of their contributions. The paper seeks to understand the concept of volunteer tourism seen from the volunteers' point of view. The primary research was conducted focusing on the experiences and perceptions of the volunteers. The study used a qualitative research method and conducted semi-structured interviews either over Skype or in person. The collected data was then manually coded through a thematic analysis for further research and discussion. The results indicate that as a whole, the volunteers had positive experiences in regards to relationships with both community and company. Much of the literature stresses the importance of this and the findings show that actual experiences contribute towards positive relationships. The opinions were more diverse in terms of use of funds and time as well as the impacts they saw. An explanation of the findings was provided to create an understanding of them. The most surprising theme that emerged from the research was the effect choices made by the company had on the perceived impression of the locals towards the volunteers. The volunteers felt stereotypes were enhanced and this was one of the biggest challenges they faced during their projects. It is hoped that the findings from this study will provide a wider understanding of the individuals' situation in volunteer tourism. Furthermore, this study may provide encouragement for similar studies to be conducted in order to gain a deeper understanding of the volunteers' experience across the world.
An investigation into the impacts of reintroducing species to Scotland, with a focus on those which could affect the Scottish tourism industry.
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
Aims & Objectives: The aim of this investigation is to explore the impacts that reintroducing species could have; focusing especially on those which could affect the Scottish tourism industry. Therefore, the objectives of this investigation are; to investigate the possible economic, ecological and social impacts that reintroducing species could have on Scotland, to ascertain the feeling of the general public and the organisations involved towards reintroducing species to Scotland and to discover whether alternate reintroduction options are more feasible. Methodology: This research will be qualitative in nature as it will be building theory on the topic of reintroductions. The data collection method chosen for this investigation is semi-structured interviews, with these interviews carried out with nine participants; five individuals with an interest in the reintroduction of species and four members from organisations which could either be affected by the reintroduction of species or are involved in conservation in the Scottish countryside. The findings were then transcribed, coded and analysed by the researcher. Results & Discussion: There are a number of impacts which can occur from the reintroduction of species, with the extent of these varying depending on the type of species reintroduced. In relation to impacts on the tourism industry, there are a number of positive impacts including; economic opportunities, strengthening Scotland's image of natural beauty and the dispersion of tourists around Scotland, helping to spread economic benefits around the country. On the other hand, negative impacts may also occur, including; restrictions on movement and the issue of fear preventing visitors from travelling to the reintroduced area. Conclusion: The findings from this investigation could be beneficial for organisations involved in the reintroduction of species in helping to understand the potential impacts this could have on the tourism industry of Scotland. This is of significant importance due to the importance of the tourism industry to Scotland's economy
Understanding the Chinese Tourist: A study of cultural traits and tourist travel characteristics in Edinburgh.
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
The purpose of research project to gain an understanding of the Chinese tourist, including tourist characteristics, cultural traits and expectations when visiting Edinburgh. The objectives to achieve this are as follows (i) to gain an understanding of the characteristics and tourist profile of the Chinese tourist in Edinburgh; (ii) gain an understanding of Chinese tourist cultural needs and expectations; (iii) to determine how the tourism services in Edinburgh can be improved to satisfy the needs of these Chinese tourists after understanding their individual behaviours. A mixed methods pragmatism approach was adopted in the study, using both inductive and deductive research in tandem to address the overarching nature of the research problem with multiple levels of influence. In order to gain a deeper understanding of the Chinese tourist, five semi structured expert interviews and forty six self completed surveys were conducted and gathered. Key findings showed that a greater understanding of the Chinese tourist is required with regards to the characteristics and profile, cultural needs and awareness. Overall, findings satisfied the research objectives outlined, resulting in the research aim being met. Recommendations for further research will also be discussed.
Wildlife tourism and seasonal factors: can Scotland use its birdlife to expand its tourism market in wintertime?
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
Purpose: This study was designed with the aim of assessing the feasibility of expanding birdwatching tourism in winter in Scotland through examining the relationship between tourism activities and seasonal changes. This research contributes new knowledge to the relatively undeveloped academic field of birdwatching tourism. Methodological design: A qualitative approach was applied in order to meet the study's aim and objectives. One face-to-face interview and ten semi-structured phone interviews were conducted. The sample for this research was selected using a purposive random sample. Respondents included owners of wildlife and birdwatching tour companies and managers at non-governmental organisations, mainly working at nature reserves, visitor centres and visitor attractions in Scotland. This research engaged participants from across Scotland including, Orkney, Angus, Perthshire, Aberdeenshire, Scottish Borders, East Lothian, as well as some parts of the Scottish Highlands. During the interviews respondents were asked about the potential of birdwatching tourism in winter in Scotland, limitations in developing this type of market, and other questions relating to the activities and services that they offer in winter and other months. Results: Data was analysed and categorised by themes including: potential of birdwatching tourism in winter, birdlife in winter, activities, infrastructure and information offered. Seasonality related findings focus on weather, geographical location and closing and opening times. Marketing and promotion emerges as important theme, particularly due to the limitations caused by budget availability and the potential that resource to develop birdwatching tourism in winter in Scotland. Overall, this study reports that Scotland has abundant birdlife resources in winter but not enough visitors during the winter season to fully utilise its potential as yet.
An investigation into how Edinburgh Travel Agents, are remaining competitive in a fast changing; technically driven market.
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
The aim of this research is to investigate how Edinburgh Travel Agents are remaining competitive in a fast changing; technically driven market. There is a gap in the research, due to the limited amount of literature on travel agent's perception's in relation to the future of high street travel agents. With the current market becoming more technically driven it is important to see how travel agents are remaining successful, given that recent figures show high street travel agents are diminishing. The primary research was collected by interviewing 10 high street travel agents around Edinburgh. Independent, specialised and multi-chain travel agents were interviewed in order to gain the most representative data possible. Semi-structured interviews were chosen as it allowed themes to emerge which the researcher may not have accounted for, as well as gaining in-depth information regarding the research question. The findings were then coded and analysed. Two travel agents interviewed, stated how their companies do not use online methods, therefore, showing that they are managing to stay competitive in a technically driven market. Furthermore, they are expanding, suggesting that there is still a demand for high street travel agents. In addition, all bar one of the respondents said that they would choose to go to a high street travel agent rather than using online methods. One of the main outcomes from this study is that high street travel agents are still seen as popular and in demand by consumers. They continue to be vital in the hospitality and tourism industry, despite the advancing technically driven market.
Critical review of destination marketing organization advertising measurement methods/models used in Latvia
(Queen Margaret University, 2016)
The purpose of this Bachelor Thesis is to explore current practices in place and to suggest a model/methodology for advertising measurement in the context of Latvia as a marketed destination. The work was assessed utilising research obtained from tourism companies and employees of said companies/organisations in Latvia. Namely, author looks is there any main measurement models in place and the main perceptions by destination marketing organizations before launching advertisement. More importantly, author finds this study necessary for Latvian tourism development, as during literature analyse no prior review of the destination marketing field was identified in a search of the literature. Author also notes that the lack of interest in this industry is in part attributed to the fact that tourism destinations largely vary in terms of size and characteristics, which makes every destination unique. The methodology part consists of explanation and argument of why the qualitative case study approach was used, also analysing the possibilities of choosing other paths. That is continued with research design and in-depth semi-structured interviews with 6 biggest Latvian destination marketing organizations. Author examines three research questions, and results indicate that Latvian destination marketing organizations are very limited in their ability to provide financially supported advertisements. Key findings show that the lack of previous research and the lack of financial support from government and investors limit organizations in developing their own unique marketing strategies and measurement models/methodology. The outcomes of the analysis have given an increased understanding of destination marketing and measurement techniques amongst destination marketing companies, in general and within Latvia, by improving their understanding of tourist perceptions, preferences and needs. Furthermore, it is clear that the findings of this research can be used in the development of advertising efficiency. By determining the forceful channels and methods of advertising and eliminating the opposite - the ones that are rather a waste of resources, it is only self-explanatory that Latvia as a tourism destination would grow and prosper. Author at the end of this study was able to propose model by which destination marketing organizations could strengthen their current and future advertisement strategies.
The effects of increasing cruise passenger numbers: A case study of the Orkney Islands.
(Queen Margaret University, 2017)
Cruise passenger numbers in Orkney have significantly increased by 300% over the last five years (OIC Marine Services 2017). There is a lack of literature on Orkney as a cruise tourism destination. Therefore, this topic was chosen to explore the effect of increasing passenger numbers to Orkney's residents, other visitors, attractions and businesses. The project also set out to clarify the cruise passenger management onshore. The aim of the study was to understand if cruise tourism is positive or negative for Orkney's assets and if cruise passengers' footfall is managed effectively onshore. To meet the aim of this project, a mixed methods approach was used to gather data using different data collection techniques. Therefore, online questionnaires were used to collect data from residents and other visitors and semi-structured interviews collected data from attraction managers, business employees or managers and cruise tourism stakeholders. The study found that there is a mix of opinion and experiences amongst the residents and other visitors. Attractions are coping with the influx of cruise passengers by using measures to control footfall but archaeological sites could be threatened if cruise passengers continues to increase in Orkney. Cruise passengers visit the majority of the businesses but the increase of income on cruise liner days depends on the ship visiting. Disney Magic was identified as a cruise ship with high spending cruise passengers on-board by some of the local business employees or managers interviewed. Overall, businesses in this study do not depend on cruise passenger expenditure but they benefit from the extra income. It was found that there will be a new Destination Management Plan for 2018-38 for Orkney. Regarding cruise passenger management, a limit of 4,500 passengers has been set to control footfall but some stakeholders believe this passenger numbers should be limited per week and per year. It was clarified that there is a lack of communication between the cruise tourism stakeholders. Recommendations have been made for further research, attraction managers and the cruise tourism industry in Orkney.
The provisions by the Scottish museum industry in support of children on the autistic spectrum
(Queen Margaret University, 2017)
The main purpose for this study was to investigate and research a perspective of four different views regarding the provisions which are in place within the Scottish Museum Industry for children between the ages of 4 to 8 on the autistic spectrum. Qualitative method was used for this study as it was a study based on the experiences and knowledges of experts and people involved in the theme relating to both accessible tourism specifically 'Autism' and the museum industry. The study involved three interviews all directly related to the subject, and a group of six participants who took place in the focus group. The study revealed that the museum industry provided provisions for children on the autistic spectrum, but there was a gap in provisions, which could be improved upon. It was found that there was difference of opinion between respondents with regards to the influence of modernisation of technology within museums as well as agreeance on what museums provide and what they need to improve upon. The research also revealed the staff working within the museum industry has insufficient experience and knowledge of autism which was a recommendation. The research found many limitations, but did not affect the studies reliability. The study was considered valid as all participants whom took part in the study, all worked with autism or in the museum industry or had first hand experiences of autism. Recommendations have been issued by the researcher which indicate that there are several provisions which still need to be put in place to improve the visitor experience of families, educational establishments and children living with ASD. Ithas been recommended that quiet rooms need to be supplied which provide the right balance of support, as well as taking into consideration families access and parking facilities into museums, specifically in Scotland such as: Blue badge parking. To finish, the introduction of staff training, which will help staff learn the awareness of autism.
An Evaluation of the Industrial Placement module and its role within Academic Core Curriculum
(Queen Margaret University, 2017)
Industrial placements have been argued to be a ''Career Laboratory'' allowing students the opportunity to test and ''try before you buy'' in the prospectus industry which they wish to have a career. (Ducat, 1980) Previous researchers have argued that for students to be successful within the Hospitality and Tourism industry, students must obtain invaluable work experience whilst completing their University undergraduate degrees. (Auburn, 2007) Although the benefit of gaining such experience from an industry perspective has been heavily documented and researched, few academic scholars have assessed the student's perceptions towards industrial work placements and their importance in academic degree programmes. Aim: This research topic analyses students and employer's perceptions toward industrial work placements and identifies the importance it has within Hospitality and Tourism management degree curriculum. Design and Methodology approach: This study follows a mixed methods approach and a comparative research design, using semi structure interviews and questionnaire to obtain data from a sample of eighty-five questionnaire respondents, currently studying a degree at Queen Margaret University International Hospitality and Tourism management degree at Key Findings: Key findings identified the fundamental purpose of Hospitality and Tourism management industrial placements integrated in degree programmes with viewpoint of all three stakeholders; the students, the Hospitality employers and lastly the academic institute lecturer. The is a need however, to establish a more triangulated cooperation between the three. Furthermore, it distinguished that although students believed in the importance of vocational learning they in fact did not acknowledge all the career options available to them in requiring a placement in both industries. Notably, not all students at QMU can gain the same experience do to several students joining the programme in the third academic year. Therefore, those students are not gaining the same invaluable experience as the students who joined the year in the first year. The Hospitality managers expressed their perceived opinion of an ideal industrial placement candidate and facilitated an overall argument of how students currently undertaking their placement may do so. However, the felt that students must understand the basics and need help from academic professionals to secure worthwhile placements to get the best possible experience whilst away from academia. Therefore, this view raises concerns although the industrial placement can benefit the academic institutions and professional employers there is currently still not a direct link between the two working together to develop the placement module and the core consensus necessary to gain the best possible outcome for the students cooperative learning but for students entering the industry. Future Recommendations: The key recommendation for future research, is the need to identify the academic measurement of examination towards the reflective portfolio in which students are examined at the end of their placement. Due to the importance of all three stakeholder's perceptions being vital and there is a need for triangulation, the measurement in which students are examined should also favour this viewpoint. Thus, allowing a moretransparent depiction of how students performed on placement and will enable the academic institute to develop the module for future students who will undertake and industrial placement in year two of the International Hospitality and Tourism Management Degree Programme. In terms of the research the quantitative research could be replicated by other Hospitality Degree courses to extend the sample size and hence validate the findings of this study. To only therefore, compare the findings from students who had undertaken an academic placement and those students who did not. Furthermore, a quantitative based upon the qualitative research could be conducted with respondents from Managers in the Hospitality and Tourism Industry.