Writing Guidelines for “Research Centers and Institutes”

Research centers and institutes play a crucial role in advancing tourism knowledge, innovation, and evidence-based decision-making through scientific research, policy analysis, education, and stakeholder engagement. They contribute to the development of tourism theory, practice, and sustainable destination management at local, national, and international levels. Entries prepared for The Encyclopedia of World Tourism should present the relevant research center or institute in an objective, academic, and source-based manner. The entry should examine its history, mission, organizational structure, research activities, and significance for tourism. Where applicable, attention should also be given to its publications, collaborations, educational contributions, research impact, and role in shaping tourism policy and practice. All information should be supported by reliable and up-to-date sources.

Entry Format

1) Entry Title
[Name of the Research Center / Institute]
(If necessary, the affiliated university, country, city, or commonly used acronym may be added in parentheses.)

Examples:

• UN Tourism Academy
• Centre for Tourism Research (University of Surrey)
• Institute of Tourism Studies
• Sustainable Tourism Research Institute
• Tourism Research Centre (TRC)

2) Introductory Statement (Descriptive Sentence)
The introductory statement should not exceed 250 characters.
In one or two sentences, briefly summarize the institution’s mission, research focus, location, year of establishment, and significance for tourism knowledge and practice.
Introductory Statement (≤250 characters): [Write the introductory statement here.]

3) Main Text
The main text must contain at least 400 words.
The sections “See Also” and “References” are not included in the word count.
The entry should begin with the introductory statement.
The following headings are recommended. They may be used directly or incorporated into the narrative of the text.

3.1 Definition and Research Focus

• What is the research center or institute?
• Primary areas of research and activity
• Role within tourism, hospitality, gastronomy, recreation, cultural heritage, or related fields

3.2 Establishment and Historical Development

• Year of establishment: [Year]
• Circumstances surrounding its establishment
• Major milestones and institutional developments
• Restructuring, mergers, or name changes (if applicable) 

3.3 Founders and Institutional Background

• Founder(s): [Person(s) or Institution(s)]
• Historical and institutional background
• Key individuals involved in its creation 

3.4 Affiliated Institution and Organizational Structure
Affiliated organization:

• University
• Government agency
• International organization
• NGO
• Independent research institute
• Private-sector organization

Administrative structure
Departments, laboratories, research groups, or units

3.5 Location and Scope of Activities
Headquarters: [City/Country]
Branches or regional offices (if applicable)
Geographic scope of activities:

• Local
• National
• Regional
• International 

3.6 Research Areas and Projects

• Major research themes
• Ongoing and completed projects
• Research methodologies
• Applied and policy-oriented studies
• International collaborations and partnerships

3.7 Publications and Knowledge Production

• Academic journals
• Research reports
• Working papers
• Books and monographs
• Statistical publications
• Policy briefs and technical reports (Highlight major publications and their significance.)

3.8 Education, Training, and Capacity Building

• Educational programs
• Professional training activities
• Workshops and seminars
• Conferences and symposiums
• Scholarships and fellowship programs (if applicable)

3.9 Contribution to Tourism and Hospitality

• Contribution to tourism research
• Influence on tourism policy and planning
• Industry engagement
• Support for destination management
• Knowledge transfer and innovation 

3.10 Collaborations and Networks

• National partnerships
• International collaborations
• Membership in academic and professional networks
• Cooperation with public and private-sector stakeholders 

3.11 Current Status and Contemporary Developments

• Current leadership
• Recent projects and initiatives
• Emerging research priorities
• Strategic plans and future directions 

3.12 Significance and Evaluation
Provide a concise assessment of the institution’s significance in:

• Tourism knowledge production
• Academic development
• Policy-making
• Industry innovation
• International collaboration