FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE THE EFFECTIVENESS OF ON-THE-JOB TRAINING ON CAREER PREFERENCE OF ALUMNI GRADUATES IN BESTLINK COLLEGE OF THE PHILIPPINES

Abstract

On-the-Job Training (OJT) is a practical approach that integrates theoretical knowledge with real-world application, immersing individuals in their work environment to acquire job-specific skills through hands-on experience.​  Key Advantages of On-the-Job Training:  Accelerated Skill Development: OJT facilitates rapid learning by enabling trainees to apply concepts directly in their daily tasks, leading to faster proficiency. ​  Enhanced Productivity: As trainees contribute to actual work processes, organizations often experience increased efficiency and output during the training period. ​  Cost-Effectiveness: By reducing the need for external training programs and minimizing downtime, OJT proves to be a financially viable option for skill development. ​  Improved Employee Retention: Employees who undergo OJT are more likely to remain with the company, as they feel invested in and equipped for their roles. ​  Real-Time Feedback: Trainees receive immediate guidance and feedback, allowing for continuous improvement and adjustment to job requirements. ​  Incorporating OJT into organizational practices not only bridges the gap between education and employment but also fosters a workforce that is competent, adaptable, and aligned with company objectives. ​This study employed a descriptive research design to examine the experiences of alumni graduates in the tourism industry, focusing on the challenges and obstacles encountered during their on-the-job training (OJT). A total of fifty alumni participated in the survey, providing valuable insights into their OJT experiences.​  The findings underscore the critical role of practical training in tourism education. Practical training bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application, enabling students to develop essential skills and competencies required in the dynamic tourism sector. As highlighted in existing literature, such training is vital for students to apply learned concepts effectively and prepare for industry demands. ​  By utilizing a qualitative research approach, this study offers a nuanced understanding of the specific challenges faced by tourism alumni during their OJT. These insights are crucial for educators and industry stakeholders aiming to enhance OJT programs, ensuring that future graduates are better prepared to meet the evolving demands of the tourism sector. Addressing the identified challenges can lead to more effective training programs and improved career readiness for tourism graduates. The survey, administered via Google Forms and distributed through social media platforms, investigated the impact of on-the-job training (OJT) on tourism graduates. The findings highlight several key areas influenced by OJT.​  Professional Development: Graduates reported significant growth in their professional skills, emphasizing the transition from academic knowledge to practical application in real-world settings. This transition is crucial in the tourism industry, where practical experience enhances service quality and operational efficiency. ​  Skill and Knowledge Enhancement: The OJT experience facilitated the acquisition of industry-specific skills and knowledge, preparing graduates for the dynamic demands of the tourism sector. Hands-on training enables students to apply learned concepts effectively, bridging the gap between theory and practice. ​  Employment Opportunities and Industry Trends: OJT played a crucial role in enhancing job prospects, with many graduates securing employment within the tourism industry. The tourism sector serves as a pathway into the workforce, offering diverse job opportunities and contributing significantly to economic development. Notably, tourism accounts for approximately 10% of all global jobs, underscoring its importance as an economic engine. ​   Social and Personal Growth: Beyond professional skills, graduates experienced personal development, including improved interpersonal abilities and a deeper understanding of workplace dynamics. These attributes are essential in the tourism industry, where customer interaction and teamwork are vital.​  These insights underscore the multifaceted benefits of OJT, highlighting its role in bridging the gap between academic learning and industry requirements. Addressing the challenges identified can lead to more effective training programs and improved career readiness for tourism graduates. This study employed a descriptive research design to examine the experiences of alumni graduates in the tourism industry, focusing on the challenges and obstacles encountered during their on-the-job training (OJT). A total of fifty alumni participated in the survey, providing valuable insights into their OJT experiences.​  Demographic Profile: The majority of participants were female, aged between 20 to 22 years. This demographic trend aligns with the broader tourism management student population in the Philippines, where females often constitute a significant majority. ​   Professional Development: Graduates reported significant growth in their professional skills, emphasizing the transition from academic knowledge to practical application in real-world settings. This transition is crucial in the tourism industry, where practical experience enhances service quality and operational efficiency. ​  Skill and Knowledge Enhancement: The OJT experience facilitated the acquisition of industry-specific skills and knowledge, preparing graduates for the dynamic demands of the tourism sector. Hands-on training enables students to apply learned concepts effectively, bridging the gap between theory and practice. ​  Employment Opportunities and Industry Trends: OJT played a crucial role in enhancing job prospects, with many graduates securing employment within the tourism industry. The tourism sector serves as a pathway into the workforce, offering diverse job opportunities and contributing significantly to economic development. Notably, tourism accounts for a substantial portion of global employment, underscoring its importance as an economic engine. ​  Social and Personal Growth: Beyond professional skills, graduates experienced personal development, including improved interpersonal abilities and a deeper understanding of workplace dynamics. These attributes are essential in the tourism industry, where customer interaction and teamwork are vital. ​  Recommendations: Based on these findings, the researchers propose enhancing the tourism industry curriculum to better align with industry needs. Strengthening partnerships between educational institutions and tourism enterprises can provide students with more comprehensive OJT opportunities, fostering a more competent and industry-ready workforce.​  These insights underscore the multifaceted benefits of OJT, highlighting its role in bridging the gap between academic learning and industry requirements. Addressing the identified challenges can lead to more effective training programs and improved career readiness for tourism graduates.