THE EFFECTIVENESS OF HANDS-ON TRAINING FOR HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT AT BESTLINK COLLEGE OF THE PHILIPPINES

Abstract

This study evaluates the effectiveness of hands-on training in the field of Hospitality Management. As the industry demands professionals who are both theoretically knowledgeable and practically skilled, experiential learning plays a crucial role in bridging academic concepts with real-world application. Internships, simulations, and other practical training methods provide opportunities for students to enhance their competence, confidence, and employability. However, the true impact of these methods on workplace preparedness remains a subject of investigation. Guided by Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory, this research aims to assess whether hands-on training at Bestlink College of the Philippines helps students develop essential practical skills, adapt to industry standards, and overcome common challenges, while also identifying areas for improvement in current training practices. A descriptive-correlational research design was employed to examine the relationship between hands-on training and variables such as skill development, confidence, industry readiness, and encountered challenges. The respondents were Hospitality Management students from second to fourth year, with 5% of the total population from each level selected through proportionate sampling. A structured questionnaire served as the primary data collection tool. The findings revealed that hands-on training significantly contributed to the development of practical skills, confidence, and workplace readiness among Hospitality Management students. Simulations and internships were particularly effective in enhancing task execution and decision-making abilities. A strong positive correlation was observed among skill development, confidence levels, and the students’ capacity to navigate real-world challenges. The study concluded that hands-on training is highly effective in preparing students for the hospitality industry by strengthening their practical abilities and boosting their confidence. It is recommended that educational institutions continue to provide updated training materials, incorporate more industry-based activities, assign qualified mentors, and implement flexible training schedules. These improvements will further support student development and ensure alignment with industry expectations.