Examining Tourism and Hospitality Curriculum Based on the Business Employers’ Needs

Abstract

This study examines approval levels of tourism and hospitality industry employers with regard to the curriculum offered by tourism and hospitality colleges in the Diploma Programs. The investigation involves two objectives: the characteristics of teaching methodology in tourism and hospitality programs and the essential skills and knowledge required by the industry. In this study, a sample of 58 tourism industry establishments listed with the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities active database in Jordan have taken the questionnaire. Throughout this process, descriptive statistic was used to analyze the data. Results concerning the characteristics of teaching methodology and course content by the industry employers show poor approval level. It was significant that the personal qualities set are of great importance to hospitality and tourism employers. This, the researcher suggests, could be a source of input to curricula for future improvements. The results of the study also show that Jordanian colleges have to ensure that new graduates have adequate practical knowledge and skills. The study recommends that colleges should give more priority to enhancing their programs quality through more involvement of the industry in the design of curricula.