Authentic Learning – Insights from a Tourism Postgraduate Programme

Abstract

Authentic learning or learning by doing involves real-world problems and their solutions using role-play, problem-based actions, case studies, and engagement with communities of practice in a multicultural environment by its very nature (Lombardi, 2007). Authentic learning will be explored through the lenses of an international postgraduate programme in International Tourism Management and mainly through a module that is team coached and underpins the degree. The reflective chapter examines two journeys: (i) master students who take ownership of their learning in a team setting environment; and (ii) tutor/s who take the role of team coach and facilitate student’s abilities to self-manage and take responsibility of their own learning and development. The journey is discussed from the perspective and characteristics of authentic learning activities employed in the design, implementation, and assessment of the module and, overall, the postgraduate programme. Drawing on the experiences of authentic activities presented, learnings can be applied to various modules and degrees given the broad context of tourism in a global context.

Citation

Els, G. (2022), "Authentic Learning – Insights from a Tourism Postgraduate Programme", Caputo, A., Lock, D. and Hack-Polay, D. (Ed.) International Environments and Practices of Higher Education, Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 7-20. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-80117-590-620221002