Event Studies

Upon completion of this course, the student shall be able to

• Articulate the historic, social, psychological, geographic and economic influences that have shaped the contemporary events and festivals sector
• Demonstrate an understanding of best practice methods that can be employed to assess economic and non-economic impacts of events on their host communities
• Develop a critical understanding of the role of events as a sustainable strategy for developing destinations and places
• Demonstrate the ability to critically review practice(s) within the festivals and events sector based on knowledge from critical event studies
• Critically analyse the nature, effects and implications of key contemporary issues in festivals and events

This course deals with the multidisciplinary characteristics of special events and festivals and the importance of events in contemporary societies. The role of Special events and festivals as a development tool is explored alongside issues surrounding cultural commodification. Behavioural economics is introduced as a way of understanding the potential of special events in dealing with social change. Finally, the course discusses the importance of inclusive stakeholder engagement when planning events.

Individual written assignment, 2 credits
Group case study, 3 credits
Individual written examination, 2.5 credits

Lectures, workshops and collaborative group work.

The Swedish grades A–F.

Individual written assignment, U-VG
Group case study, U-G
Individual written examination, A-F
The final grade for the course is given after an overall assessment that is made by the examiner.