ES
FINAL%
FACULTY OF EDUCATION
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATIONS AND MANAGEMENT
ASSIGNMENT COVER SHEET
MODULE TITLE TOURISM EDUCATION
MODULE CODE 3MTO102
GROUP NUMBER
ASSIGNMENT TOPIC
LECTURER NAME Dr O.A. Ajani
DUE DATE 20 August 2024
NON - PLAGIARISM DECLARATION
I know that plagiarism means taking and using the ideas, writings, works or inventions of another as if they
were one’s own. I know that plagiarism not only includes verbatim copying, but also the extensive use of
another person’s ideas without proper acknowledgement (which includes the proper use of quotation marks). I
know that plagiarism covers this sort of use of material found in textual sources and from the Internet. I
acknowledge and understand that plagiarism is wrong. I understand that my research must be accurately
referenced. I have followed the rules and conventions concerning referencing, citation and the use of
quotations as set out in the Departmental Guide. This assignment is my own work, or my group’s own unique
group assignment. I acknowledge that copying someone else’s assignment, or part of it, is wrong, and that
submitting identical work to others constitutes a form of plagiarism. I have not allowed, nor will I in the future
allow, anyone to copy my work with the intention of passing it off as their own work. By signing this cover
sheet, I agree that I have read and understood the above. I acknowledge that should it be found to be higher
than the acceptable similarity percentage, I may receive 0 (ZERO) for my assignment.
STUDENT’S NAME STUDENT NO. SIGNATURE
L.B KHUMALO 202018497
LECTURER
REMARKS
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Contents
Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 3
Economic Awareness and Career Opportunities .......................................................................................... 3
Cultural Understanding and Appreciation .................................................................................................... 3
Practical Skills Development ......................................................................................................................... 3
Environmental Awareness ............................................................................................................................ 4
Enhancing Entrepreneurial Skills .................................................................................................................. 4
Conclusion ..................................................................................................................................................... 4
Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 5
Factors Influencing the Teaching and Learning of Tourism .......................................................................... 5
Addressing the Challenges ............................................................................................................................ 6
Facilitating Practical Exposure ...................................................................................................................... 7
Conclusion ..................................................................................................................................................... 7
References .................................................................................................................................................... 7
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Introduction
Tourism as a school subject offers numerous benefits, particularly in a diverse and
economically dynamic country like South Africa. This essay explores the advantages of
introducing Tourism into the school curriculum, highlighting its potential to enhance
learners’ skills, knowledge, and future career opportunities.
Economic Awareness and Career Opportunities
One of the primary benefits of teaching Tourism is the economic awareness it fosters
among learners. Tourism is a significant contributor to South Africa’s GDP, accounting
for approximately 7% of the total GDP and providing employment to millions (South
African Tourism, 2020). By understanding the economic impact of tourism, students can
appreciate its importance and consider careers in this sector. For instance, learners can
explore roles in hospitality, travel consultancy, and tour guiding, which are vital for the
country’s economic growth (Morolong, 2020). A learner who takes Tourism as a subject
can pursue a career as a tour guide, hotel manager, or travel agent, contributing to the
growth of the tourism industry (Statistics South Africa, 2020).
Cultural Understanding and Appreciation
Tourism education promotes cultural understanding and appreciation. South Africa is
known for its rich cultural diversity, and tourism can serve as a bridge to connect
learners with different cultures within the country. By studying tourism, students gain
insights into the customs, traditions, and histories of various communities, fostering
mutual respect and social cohesion (Impaq Homeschooling, 2019). This cultural
competence is essential in a multicultural society and can reduce social tensions.
Learners can explore and learn about the history and significance of all tourism
attractions, promoting cultural understanding and respect.
Practical Skills Development
Introducing Tourism as a subject equips learners with practical skills that are
transferable to various fields. These skills include communication, customer service,
and problem solving. For example, students learn how to interact effectively with
tourists, manage travel itineraries, and handle customer inquiries, which are valuable in
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many professions (Dube, 2019). Additionally, tourism education often involves field trips
and hands-on activities, providing experiential learning opportunities that enhance
students’ practical knowledge.
Environmental Awareness
Tourism education also raises environmental awareness among learners. Sustainable
tourism practices are crucial for preserving South Africa’s natural heritage, including its
national parks and wildlife reserves. By studying tourism, students learn about the
importance of conservation and sustainable practices, such as eco-tourism and
responsible travel (Morolong, 2020). This knowledge encourages them to become
advocates for environmental protection in their communities. A school can organize a
field trip to Table Mountain National Park, teaching learners about eco-tourism and
conservation efforts.
Enhancing Entrepreneurial Skills
Tourism as a subject can enhance entrepreneurial skills among learners. The tourism
industry offers numerous opportunities for entrepreneurship, from starting a travel
agency to running a bed and breakfast. By understanding the dynamics of the tourism
market, students can develop business ideas and learn how to create and manage their
enterprises (South African Tourism, 2020). This entrepreneurial spirit is vital for
economic development and job creation in South Africa. : Learners can participate in a
mock hotel reception scenario, practicing communication and customer service skills.
Conclusion
In conclusion, introducing Tourism as a school subject in South Africa offers multiple
benefits, including economic awareness, cultural understanding, practical skills
development, environmental awareness, and entrepreneurial skills. These advantages
not only prepare learners for diverse career opportunities but also contribute to the
country’s socio-economic development. Therefore, integrating Tourism into the school
curriculum is a strategic move that can capacitate learners and support national growth.
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Introduction
The teaching and learning of Tourism in schools require a multifaceted approach to
address various influencing factors. This essay explores the key factors affecting the
effective teaching and learning of Tourism and proposes solutions to these challenges,
supported by relevant examples and logical arguments.
Factors Influencing the Teaching and Learning of Tourism
1. Teacher Competence and Training
One of the primary factors influencing the teaching of Tourism is the
competence and training of teachers. Effective teaching requires educators who
are well-versed in tourism concepts and possess practical experience in the field.
However, many teachers lack specialized training in tourism, which hampers
their ability to deliver quality education (Chili, 2013). For instance, teachers who
have not worked in the tourism industry may struggle to provide real-world
examples and practical insights.
2. Curriculum and Resources
The curriculum and availability of resources significantly impact the teaching and
learning of Tourism. A well-structured curriculum that includes both theoretical
and practical components is essential. However, many schools face challenges
such as outdated curricula and insufficient teaching materials (Zhong et al.,
2022). For example, a curriculum that does not incorporate the latest trends in
tourism, such as sustainable tourism practices, may not fully prepare students for
the industry.
3. Student Engagement and Motivation
Student engagement and motivation are crucial for effective learning. Tourism,
being a dynamic and interactive subject, requires active participation from
students. Factors such as large class sizes and lack of interactive teaching
methods can hinder student engagement (Chili, 2013). For instance, in a
classroom with too many students, it becomes challenging for teachers to
provide personalized attention and foster active discussions.
4. Practical Exposure and Field Trips
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Practical exposure through field trips and internships is vital for tourism
education. These experiences allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in
real-world settings. However, logistical challenges and funding constraints often
limit the opportunities for such practical experiences (Zhong et al., 2022). For
example, organizing field trips to tourist attractions or arranging internships with
travel agencies may be difficult due to budget limitations.
Addressing the Challenges
1. Enhancing Teacher Training
To address the issue of teacher competence, it is essential to provide
specialized training programs for tourism educators. Professional
development workshops and industry partnerships can help teachers gain
practical insights and stay updated with industry trends (Chili, 2013). For
instance, collaboration with tourism organizations can offer teachers hands-
on experience and access to the latest industry practices.
2. Updating the Curriculum
Updating the tourism curriculum to include contemporary topics and practical
components is crucial. Incorporating modules on sustainable tourism, digital
marketing, and customer service can make the curriculum more relevant and
comprehensive (Zhong et al., 2022). Additionally, providing schools with
adequate teaching materials and resources, such as multimedia tools and
industry case studies, can enhance the learning experience.
3. Promoting Student Engagement
To improve student engagement, teachers can adopt interactive teaching
methods such as group discussions, role-playing, and project-based learning.
Smaller class sizes and personalized attention can also foster a more
engaging learning environment (Chili, 2013). For example, organizing group
projects where students create mock travel itineraries can encourage active
participation and collaboration.
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Facilitating Practical Exposure
Facilitating practical exposure through partnerships with local tourism
businesses and organizations can provide students with valuable hands-on
experience. Schools can collaborate with travel agencies, hotels, and tourist
attractions to arrange internships and field trips (Zhong et al., 2022). For
instance, a partnership with a local hotel can offer students the opportunity to
observe and participate in daily operations, enhancing their practical
knowledge.
Conclusion
The effective teaching and learning of Tourism in schools are influenced by factors such
as teacher competence, curriculum, student engagement, and practical exposure.
Addressing these challenges through enhanced teacher training, updated curricula,
interactive teaching methods, and practical experiences can significantly improve
tourism education. By adopting these strategies, schools can better prepare students for
successful careers in the tourism industry.
References
- Chili, N. (2013). Tourism Education: Factors Affecting Effective Teaching and Learning
of Tourism in Township Schools. Journal of Human Ecology, 41(1), 33-43.
- Zhong, L., Li, X., Sun, S., Law, R., Qi, X., & Dong, Y. (2022). Influencing Factors of
Students’ Learning Gains in Tourism Education: An Empirical Study on 28 Tourism
Colleges in China. Sustainability, 14(24), 16601.
- South African Tourism. (2020). Annual Report 2019/2020. Retrieved from [South
African Tourism]
- Morolong, T. C. (2020). The place and case for tourism in the educational curriculum
in the “new” South Africa. University of Pretoria. Retrieved from [University of Pretoria]
- Impaq Homeschooling. (2019). Why choose Tourism as a subject?
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- Dube, Z. (2019). Conceptions and Misconceptions of Tourism as a Subject in the
South African School Curriculum. Retrieved from
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