From research to working life: students as knowledge brokers for enterpernurial development
▶Summary
The project aimed to create lasting methods for developing education and research structures within educational institutions in collaboration with international working life. We focused on buildin...
▶Objectives
The project aimed to create lasting methods for developing education and research structures within educational institutions in collaboration with international working life. We focused on building strong links between higher education institutions (HEIs) and the tourism industry through structured work packages. Key goals included developing learning outcomes that meet both student and industry needs. By connecting students with up-to-date HEI knowledge to the tourism sector, we aimed to provide qualified staff for a rapidly evolving industry. We also focused on supporting disadvantaged students in building tourism careers and helping businesses better integrate diverse employees. Our work packages analyzed best practices for applying tourism research to industry, used visualization to make data more accessible, explored Generation Z’s workplace values, and introduced the “Idea Manager” role to connect HEIs and destination management organizations. The overall goal was to enhance HEI curricula, strengthen student-industry connections, and help the tourism sector benefit from the latest academic research.
▶Activities
The project bridged gaps between higher education institutions (HEIs) and the tourism industry through targeted activities. It began with a needs analysis involving industry stakeholders, HEIs, and students to identify challenges and opportunities. Best practices for applying tourism research to real-world use were also reviewed. Innovative tools and visual methods were developed to make academic knowledge more accessible. Students acted as knowledge brokers, connecting theory and practice through workshops and pilot projects. The "Idea Manager" role was created to link HEIs, Destination Management Organizations (DMOs), and industry stakeholders, ensuring academic insights translated into practical strategies. Generation Z’s workplace expectations were studied to design internships aligning with student goals and industry needs. The project also focused on supporting disadvantaged students by identifying barriers and promoting inclusivity. HEI curricula were updated to include work-integrated learning. Project results were shared through conferences and online platforms, expanding impact and encouraging broader adoption.
▶Impact
The project delivered practical solutions to bridge higher education institutions (HEIs) and the tourism industry. Work Package 2 (WP2) Developed best-practice case studies showing how tourism businesses can apply academic research to boost innovation and competitiveness. Work Package 3 (WP3): Engaged students in creating visual tools like infographics and diagrams to simplify research for industry use. These tools were integrated into HEI curricula, supporting collaboration and practical learning. Work Package 4 (WP4): Produced generational que cards and a handbook to help employers understand and manage diverse workforce expectations, especially for Generation Z. Work Package 5 (WP5): Created an "Idea Management" curriculum and a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) to train students in fostering industry-academic collaboration. These outputs provide lasting tools for stronger HEI-industry partnerships, benefiting all stakeholders.