LEVEL OF EFFECTIVENESS OF EDUCATIONAL TOUR OF TOURISM STUDENTS TOWARD CAREER DEVELOPMENT: BASIS FOR ENHANCEMENT PLAN

Abstract

The study aimed to determine the impact of educational tours on students’ practical experience, skill development, emotional and social readiness, career preparedness, and industry exposure. The researchers used a quantitative descriptive method to gather and analyze data. Information was collected through a survey questionnaire distributed to one hundred twenty-two (122) respondents, consisting of one hundred twelve (112) fourth-year tourism students from National University Fairview and STI College-Novaliches, and 10 educational tour implementers from various institutions. Participants were chosen using purposive sampling, selecting only those who had joined at least one educational tour. The results showed that both students and implementers found educational tours to be highly effective in improving practical experience, skills, and career readiness. Tours helped develop students’ communication, teamwork, and technical abilities, and boosted their confidence in professional settings. However, leadership development received lower ratings, suggesting a need for more opportunities for students to take initiative during tours. The Mann-Whitney U Test revealed a significant difference between the perceptions of students and implementers, with implementers giving higher ratings and viewing the tours as more beneficial overall. Both groups agreed that educational tours are essential for professional growth. The study concluded that while these tours effectively link theory and practice, they can be improved through structured learning, leadership training, reflection, and stronger collaboration between schools and tourism establishments. These findings guided the development of an Educational Tour Enhancement Plan to make tours more meaningful, skill-focused, and career-oriented.

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