Kimberly Miller-Spillman, PhD, professor in merchandising, apparel, and textiles within the University of Kentucky’s College of Agriculture, proves equine research can occur in many contexts outside of the traditional models of horse health research. She melds her interest in horses and apparel in several ways to create meaningful projects for students and a tie-in to Kentucky’s signature industry.

She currently teaches a course for merchandising majors titled “Social and Psychological Aspects of Apparel” that requires a research project. Three students in her spring class chose equine topics for their research and presentations, with topics including “Race and Society: The Level of Involvement from African Americans in Horseback Riding”; “The Perceived Effects of Attire on Participants in Equitation Events”; and “Sidesaddle and Astride Dress in a Contemporary Context.”

In describing the process students followed, which included surveys, formatting scientific manuscripts, qualitative and quantitative research methods, and a research paper and corresponding presentation, Spillman said, “Social and psychological theories of dress and behavior along with historic research methods inform their research efforts. Students learn about survey research methods, interview methods, online data collection, and how to take data and connect it to theoretical concepts.”

Spillman said she used the occasion of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games (WEG) to inspire student design ideas for another project, although this project is not formally affiliated with the Games in any way