Research questions:

I began this study without direct research questions, but instead a desire to learn more about ski culture in Vermont. As I conducted the study, I found a few categories begin to emerge from my findings.

Method:

I chose to begin my study with participant-observer studies at two different Vermont ski areas to further explore the topic of skiing in Vermont, with a particular interest in the culture in and around the lodges.

I then conducted a literature review and from these readings, I identified three possible focus areas: climate change, the impacts of capitalism and “big ski resort” and diversity and inclusion.

Finally, I conducted three semi-structured ethnographic interviews during which the topic of climate change was brought up unprompted, which indicated that this was the path I should further explore.

Data analysis:

To analyze the data, I used grounded theory as I collected it. I coded and organized my data by overall themes, and used those to guide my remaining research. This inductive method was especially helpful for this assignment since I needed to develop and narrow my focus areas over time, and wasn’t given a specific topic.

Key takeaways:

During this study I discovered the following about Vermont ski culture:

• The idea of the “Vermont Skier”: Vermont skiers are hearty and pride themselves in being able to ride the tough conditions on the east coast.

• Climate change’s domino effect on ski culture: Climate change is already impacting the ski industry and therefore the ski culture.

• Developing mountain activities during off months: Ski mountains are already creating ways to utilize the mountains to their fullest extent during seasons without snow.

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