Linking internship outcomes to classroom learning: A case study examination of hospitality and toursim management students

This paper examines how student learning, undertaken via Hospitality and Tourism Management internships, complements and enhances knowledge previously gained through a traditional classroom setting. It specifically poses and answers four questions relating to preparation for the internship experience, links to classroom learning, the development of new skills and the connections between academic theories and practical application. While set in the context of a Case University, the study finds that students do feel the education they received prior to their internship had prepared them for the experience. In addition, there was statistical significance showing that theories discussed in class are important to them and examples of these theoretical approaches were evident during their practical experiences.