THE EFFECTS OF LABORATORIES IN HARDSKILL DEVELOPMENT OF BSHM STUDENTS AT BESTLINK COLLEGE OF THE PHILIPPINES

Abstract

Students pursuing a BS in Hospitality Management gain significant advantages from the practical experiences offered by laboratories, which are essential for developing hands-on skills. These practical learning environments allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, deepening their understanding of hospitality concepts. By engaging in exploratory learning, students not only enhance their intellectual growth but also refine their skills, preparing them to meet the demands of the hospitality industry. The research will adopt a mixed-methods approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative techniques to provide a comprehensive understanding of the topic. This combination allows for the collection of both numerical data and detailed insights, offering a well-rounded analysis of the subject. Demographic Information: Gender Distribution: The majority of respondents are female, accounting for 68% of the total sample. Year Level: Among the 100 student respondents, 76% are in their 3rd year.  Effectiveness of Laboratory Activities in Developing Hard Skills Among BSHM Students: Bar and Beverages Laboratory Activities: The statement, “Students are guided by the instructor manually when they are using the facility and equipment,” received a weighted mean of 3.69, which is interpreted as Strongly Agree (SA). This suggests that the laboratory activities are highly effective in helping students develop hard skills through hands-on guidance and equipment use.  Factors Affecting the Development of Hard Skills: Demonstration: The statement, “Demonstration and practice are useful for learning a task that involves developing a student’s skill,” received a weighted mean of 3.65, interpreted as Strongly Agree (SA). This indicates that students find demonstrations and practice valuable for skill development.  Experience: The statement, “Guidance from experienced professionals or educators provides valuable insights, feedback, and opportunities for skill development,” also received a weighted mean of 3.65, interpreted as Strongly Agree (SA). This suggests that students acknowledge the importance of guidance from experienced professionals in honing their skills.  Challenges Encountered by Students in Using the Laboratory: Limited Time for Simulation: The most significant challenge faced by students is the limited time for laboratory simulations, with 89% of respondents citing this issue. To address this, it is recommended that the school administration implement alternative schedules for laboratory simulations to ensure that all students have sufficient time for practice. Development of Hard Skills: Laboratory exercises play a crucial role in developing hard skills, which are essential for success in the hospitality industry. These practical experiences enable students to apply theoretical knowledge and gain hands-on skills required in their field.  Role of Educational Institutions: Institutions of higher learning can enhance students' hard skills by addressing key factors such as providing ample practical training, fostering industry partnerships, and offering specialized resources. This approach ensures that students are well-prepared for a successful career in hospitality.  Challenges Faced by Students: Students using laboratory facilities often face challenges, including limited simulation time and shared resources. These obstacles can hinder skill development, and addressing them by offering more scheduling flexibility or additional equipment would improve the learning experience.  Application of Research Findings: Applying research findings can significantly improve the development of hard skills within the Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) curriculum. For instance, analyzing market research data can enhance skills in revenue management and strategic planning, while gaining practical experience in hotel operations refines expertise in hospitality management and customer service.