Cathryn L. Claussen

Determinants of using sports web portals: an empirical examination of the Sport Website Acceptance Model.

This study empirically tested the Sport Website Acceptance Model (SWAM), proposed by Hur, Ko and Claussen (2007). The SWAM added Perceived Enjoyment (Davis et al, 1992) and Perceived Trustworthiness (Belanger et al, 2002) to the two factors Perceived Ease of Use and Perceived Usefulness used in the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) (Davis, 1989). This study proposes a competing model to the original SWAM and compares this by incorporating two additional constructs, Sport Involvement (Shank & Beasley, 1998) and Psychological Commitment to a Team (Mahony et al, 2000). Structural equation modeling analyses revealed acceptable model fits, both in the original SWAM and in the competing model. Subsequent analyses led the authors to conclude that the competing model was the better version of the SWAM.

The Evolving Role of the “Ombuds” in American Higher Education

In the United States, many universities have established an Ombuds office charged with informal dispute resolution and problem-solving for issues and concerns arising within the university community. This chapter discusses the evolving role of the university ombudsman from the 1960s to the present. The current status of the university ombudsman is described relative to reporting structures, selection processes, demographics, evaluation and reward structures, as well as ombuds’ self-perceptions of their functions vis-a-vis the four pillars of the profession (confidentiality, informality, independence, neutrality). Current trends and issues are identified that are creating internal and external pressures on the ombuds role, including social, technological, and legal changes, as well as issues arising due to the internal political environment of universities and the changing nature of American higher education. Where relevant, the International Ombudsman Association’s standards of practice are also discussed. The chapter concludes with some recommendations aimed at encouraging increased administrative support for and efficacy of offices of university ombudsmen.

Strategic fit in international sponsorship - the case of the Olympic Games in Beijing 2008

Action sports are beginning to acquire the status of mainstream sports and are increasingly recognised as a profitable enterprise by both the sports industry and the business industry. The purpose of this study is to analyse motivation of action sports participants. The researchers collected data at the 2005 LG (Lucky Geum Sung) FMX (Freestyle Motocross) World Championships. The results of a MANOVA test and a series of ANOVA tests revealed that in general these action sports participants (n=253) are highly motivated by fun/enjoyment and risk-taking. Motivation of action sports participants varies across gender and level of experience.