Linking Classroom and Experiential Learning together in Hospitality Education

The research is taken from my PhD thesis and investigates the relationship between traditional classroom delivery and the supporting role of internships as a high impact experiential learning tool. Using both quantitative (Chi Square) and qualitative (focus groups)data a number of questions are posed to a student sample(n=499)to see how the internship complements and further enriches their hospitality and tourism education. The findings suggest that the students value the combined approach to their education which not only helps improve understanding but allows additional opportunities for networking and career development with employers