Title: THE IMPACT OF WORK-INTEGRATED LEARNING ON THE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT STUDENTS IN THE 2ND DISTRICT OF ALBAY
Author:
Norjun P. Barro
Abstract:
Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) is an important part of helping hospitality students connect what they learn in school with what they practice in the real world. This study investigated the influence of WIL on the professional advancement of hospitality management students in the 2nd District of Albay. The study employed a descriptive quantitative methodology to gather data from Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) graduates from four higher education institutions who completed their Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) during the 2022–2023 academic year. A survey questionnaire was employed to evaluate students’ practical skills, professional competences, acquired knowledge, and preparation for employment. We looked at the data using descriptive statistics such as frequency distribution, percentage, weighted mean, and ranking. The results reveal that WIL had a major impact on students’ practical hospitality abilities, communication and teamwork skills, and general confidence in getting a job. Graduates claimed they were more ready to fulfill the needs of the industry after they finished their WIL experiences. Students also claimed that the level of supervision, the relevancy of prescribed assignments, and the lack of opportunity to think about things were challenges, even though these were desirable aspects. In short, the data indicate how vital WIL is for helping hospitality students get employment and advance in their careers. The study indicates that WIL programs might be enhanced through increased engagement between industry and academia improved mentoring, and more organized reflection activities.
Keywords: Work-Integrated Learning, Hospitality Management, Professional Development, Employability, Experiential Learning.
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