UTILIZATION OF EDUCATIONAL TOURS AS LEARNING TOOL AMONG TOURISM MANAGEMENT STUDENTS: A PROPOSED ACTION PLAN
Keywords:
educational tours, tourism management, experiential learning, kolb’s learning cycle, active experimentation, reflective observation, concrete experience, abstract conceptualization, student engagement, descriptive researchAbstract
Educational tours, often referred to as field trips, have long been recognized as valuable learning experiences that enhance student engagement and understanding. These tours offer students the opportunity to engage with real-world environments and apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations. In the context of tourism management education, educational tours are particularly significant, as they expose students to the complexities of the tourism industry and help prepare them for future careers in the field. The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the educational tour undertaken by BSTM students and to propose an action plan based on Kolb's Experiential Learning Cycle, which includes the four stages: concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation. This study employed a descriptive research method using an exploratory quantitative research design. Data were collected through surveys administered to fifty (50) students who had participated in educational tours, utilizing a Likert scale to measure their responses. The study's findings reveal that respondents strongly agree that educational tours serve as an effective learning tool for tourism management students. Among the four indicators based on Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle, "Active Experimentation" emerged as the leading component, with a weighted mean of 3.36. This was followed closely by "Reflective Observation" with a weighted mean of 3.34. "Concrete Experience" ranked third with a weighted mean of 3.29, while "Abstract Conceptualization" placed fourth, obtaining a weighted mean of 3.28. By adopting a solution-oriented approach that prioritizes financial support, engaging itineraries, adequate accommodations, and a strong emphasis on quality experiential learning, institutions can significantly enhance the educational value of tours. These strategic actions will not only enrich students’ learning experiences but also better equip them to succeed in the dynamic and competitive field of tourism management.
