The effectiveness of ICT-enhanced learning on raising intercultural competencies and class interaction in a hospitality course

ABSTRACT

This study examines the effects of technology-enhanced interventions in hospitality curricula using an overarching research hypothesis - Does a course that features multi-model inputs, web-based learning opportunities and interactive communications prepare students well for their internships? Through an exploration of various influences within blended learning, this study unpacks students’ responses to the pedagogical design, technology-enhanced interactions and in turn, assess for their intercultural competencies. The theoretical framework informing this study confirms the hypothesis that these multifaceted classroom activities demonstrated pedagogical effectiveness for knowledge retention. The findings showed that students’ intercultural competences were significantly promoted. Students’ learning interactions also improved due to the processes of video-making, sharing and discussions in the classroom. Moreover, these classroom activities significantly raised students’ intercultural awareness. With regards to the effectiveness of the course for internship preparation, students showed moderate levels of satisfaction. Theoretical and practical contributions to the embedding of ICT within hospitality courses are provided.

KEYWORDS:

• ICT
• intercultural competence
• interactivity
• video-making
• hospitality course

Acknowledgement

This research is partially supported by Higher Education Sprout Project (HESP) of Ministry of Education (MOE) in Taiwan.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by Ministry of Education Project Awards: Higher Education Sprout Project (HESP) of Ministry of Education (MOE) in Taiwan [grant number 108A28-04].

Notes on contributors

Mei-jung (Sebrina) Wang

Mei-jung (Sebrina) Wang is Professor at National Kaohsiung University of Hospitality and Tourism, Taiwan. Her research interests include computer-assisted learning, and English for specific purposes, and overall tourism experiences.

Li-Zu Yang

Li-Zu Yang is Research Assistant of International College at National Kaohsiung University of Hospitality and Tourism, Taiwan. Her research interests includes content and language integrated learning (CLIL).

Tzu-ling (Charline) Chen

Tzu-ling (Charline) Chen is Associate Professor at National Kaohsiung University of Hospitality and Tourism. Her research interests are internship, employability, Career Development, Hospitality Education and Curriculum, and Hospitality and Tourism Management.