50th Leisure Studies Association Annual Conference

Issues of inclusion, exclusion and the need to challenge inequalities remain important within the field of leisure. Submissions are invited from those who examine gender, race/ethnicity, disability, social class, wellbeing, health, and many other intersections of potential inclusion or exclusion in areas linked
to leisure, sport, tourism and events. Topics linked to emergent research areas focussing on ethically responsible leisure or the experiences of Indigenous communities are also welcomed.

Submissions within this area might draw upon lenses of justice, social justice, human rights, or focus on other conceptualisations of power or politics that continue to form integral areas of research within leisure-related disciplines.

This stream invites submissions that critically engage with intersections of sustainability, the environment and nature-based leisure and tourism, including areas linked to social and ecological justice, and concerning human and/or non-human entities. Topics may explore the role of nature-based leisure and tourism in promoting sustainability, the balance between leisure activities and ecological integrity, and the ways in which leisure practices can address social and environmental inequities and/or inequalities in the face of global environmental challenges.

Contributions may consider the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and climate-resilient leisure practices, including exploration of areas such as eco-tourism, tourism and protected areas, regeneration and community issues. There is likewise scope to examine issues linked to green, blue and dark-sky spaces, landscapes and entities. Submissions that adopt innovative solutions to address issues and aspects related to nature-based leisure and tourism, climate change and socio-cultural sustainability within the leisure sector are highly encouraged.

Linked to the 50th anniversary of the Leisure Studies Association, submissions that focus on issues of leisure in space, time and place are welcomed. As we look towards the future, it is also important to remember that areas of leisure continue to change over time.

There is much to be learnt from sociohistorical analyses of leisure, sport, tourism and events, particularly concerning long-term social and cultural power struggles that can enable or constrain participation in certain activities, as well as issues linked to heritage, culture and ever-changing community impact across different leisure-related disciplines. Submissions are therefore invited that seek to better understand the context of leisure studies disciplines within space, time and place.

We invite submissions exploring innovative teaching, pedagogical approaches, and research methods in leisure studies. We welcome submissions that address topics such as experiential and active learning strategies, methods for studying leisure, ethical considerations in leisure research, and the role of technology in shaping leisure practices and pedagogy. Submissions highlighting case studies,
methodological innovations, or collaborative projects are highly encouraged.

Other areas of interest and discussion may include the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in teaching and research, competence-based assessment, and employability and work-related learning. Contributors may also wish to
consider pervasive issues such as decolonisation of the curriculum, the challenge of research methods delivery and critical pedagogies.

The integration of technology presents opportunities, significant issues, and complex challenges within the context of leisure. Advancements in virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and artificial intelligence (AI) have transformed how individuals experience leisure, creating more immersive and personalised experiences, making leisure activities more accessible and engaging.

Advancements in areas linked to digital leisure, online technologies and the emergence of eGames, eSports and eEvents have also contributed to an expansion of digitised leisure pursuits and online leisure environments. However, these advancements also raise important questions concerning digital addiction, mental health concerns, the environmental impact of producing and maintaining digital infrastructure, and digital inequality. The challenge lies in balancing technological integration with ethical, health, and environmental considerations.

We welcome submissions that explore these broad themes, particularly papers that explore how fostering inclusive and sustainable practices can enhance
leisure without compromising wellbeing or ethical principles.

Leisure is a complex environment in which effective management and leadership are central to the success of organisations. Within this context, submissions are welcomed that focus on management and leadership in leisure, including contributions that explore leadership styles, theories, and practices across diverse contexts. This stream also invites contributions that explore workforce-related challenges such as talent acquisition, retention, training and development, which are critical for the long-term success of organisations in leisure across the public, private and voluntary sectors.

Submissions may also explore areas linked to power dynamics, working relationships, and human resource management (HRM) practices in the leisure industry, including related issues linked to wellbeing, resilience and inclusion. Community involvement in leisure and project management is also key to creating meaningful, impactful programmes that respond to local needs, with submissions also encouraged that explore how communities can participate in the design, implementation, and evaluation of leisure activities and projects.

Submissions are welcomed to the open stream for LSA 2025 covering all topics that examine leisure, sport, tourism, hospitality, events, and related disciplines. This open stream seeks to explore a wide range of research, practices and innovations within and across the leisure industry that do not fit
neatly into one of the more distinct streams listed above, offering a broad platform for research activity undertaken within leisure studies disciplines.

Topics may include (but not limited to) emerging trends, stakeholder analysis, community engagement, or any other contributions that provide new insights, challenge conventional thinking, and offer practical solutions to challenges within and across leisure-related disciplines.

Submissions are encouraged that cross disciplinary boundaries and explore
key issues and intersections between leisure-related fields, particularly with a focus on improving outcomes for people, organisations and communities.

DoubleTree by Hilton, York 

Yorkshire Hotel - Doubletree by Hilton York
St Maurices Road, York YO31 7JA

For 15% off booking price, please see the Hotels and Accommodation Information Sheet that has been sent to all prospective conference delegates, which includes a link to special rates at the DoubleTree by Hilton for the conference. This information sheet and discount link can also be requested by emailing: lsa2025@yorksj.ac.uk.

Malmaison York 

Welcome to Malmaison York
2 Rougier St, York YO90 1UU 

A discount code is available for conference delegates. Please see the Hotels and Accommodation Information Sheet that has been sent to all prospective conference delegates, including a link to special rates at the Malmaison for the conference. This information sheet and discount code can also be requested by emailing: lsa2025@yorksj.ac.uk.

York St John University can offer a limited number of select commuter student accommodation for delegates attending the conference who are registered postgraduate/doctoral students, conveniently located just a short walk from campus.

Visit our website for information about our Limes Court accommodation.
  
To request information on delegate prices and to make a booking, please email the Accommodation Team at accommodation@yorksj.ac.uk, with the subject line "LSA Conference Accommodation".

Mercure York Fairfield Manor Hotel

Shipton Road, York, YO30 1XW York, United Kingdom

Visit the Mercure York Fairfield Manor Hotel website for more information.

YHA York

Haverford 42 Water End, Clifton, York YO30 6LP, England
YHA York Hostel | Cheap Accommodation York City Centre

Visit the YHA York website for more information.

There are many other hotels, Bed and Breakfast (B&B), apartments, etc., available within York from 5* to budget options that would offer convenient accommodation for conference delegates. Further information can be found on the Visit York website.