Recreation, Parks and Tourism 363

RCPT 363: Special Events

Prerequisites: RCPT Major with concentration in TOSE.

Credit Hours: (3)

Provides a solid understanding of the numerous tasks and details involved in developing and coordinating a special event. Application of creativity to develop events with unique purposes and presentations combining elements such as site selection, décor, lighting, sound, and entertainment, as well as food and beverage to reflect the theme of the event. Field trips required.


Detailed Description of Course

Unit I: Sub-topics in this unit address event concept development and other early-stage planning issues
A.    Special event development
            1.    Determining goals and objectives
            2.    Analysis of element requirements
                            i.    Technical production, risk management, site requirements, etc
                            ii.    Determine ancillary activities to event
            3.    Developing an integrated marketing plan
                            i.    Promotion
                            ii.    Public relations
                            iii.    Sponsorships
            4.    Proposal presentation

Unit II: Sub-topics in this unit address specific event planning tasks that are integral to success
B.    Pre-Production
            1.    Developing timelines
            2.    Coordination of event elements
                            i.    Site services
                            ii.    Transportation
                            iii.    Décor, etc
            3.    Devising contingency and response plans
            4.    Orientation meeting
                            i.    Vendor
                            ii.    Volunteers
                            iii.    Staff

Unit III: Sub-topics in this unit address event implementation
C.    Event production
            1.    Schedule implementation
            2.    Methods of communication
            3.    Ancillary location use

Unit III: Sub-topics in this unit address event evaluation
D.    Post-Event
            1.    Determining Return on Investment
            2.    Evaluating all aspects of events
            3.    Archiving information
            4.    Closing out contracts


Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

Field experience: students will be required to serve as volunteer staff at a minimum of two special events during the course of the semester

Student development of materials (small group): students will create event binders, which include all information to plan, execute and evaluate an event

Case studies & student presentations (small group): students will be given case studies and required to present them to the class

Guest speakers: Regional event planners will speak to the students about successes and failures, as well as offer career advice

Readings: students will be required to read select materials, such as journal articles, textbook chapters and popular media reports


Goals and Objectives of the Course

Having successfully completed this course, the student will be able to:

•    Execute and evaluate special events
•    Analyze, synthesize, develop and design the necessary elements for planning events
•    Evaluate and apply industry professional standards, legislative requirements and ethical     principles to event and exhibit management.


Assessment Measures

Quizzes, peer and instructor rubrics, supervisor assessment, comprehensive exam, success in small group activities and field experience.


Other Course Information

None

Review and Approval

March, 2010

May, 2011

November 27, 2017