THE CONCEPTUALISATION OF WORK INTEGRATED LEARNING PRACTICES IN HOSPITALITY EDUCATION TO DEVELOP STUDENTS' CAREER PREPAREDNESS

A PRELIMINARY PAPER

Abstract

The unwillingness of hospitality graduates to work in this industry after graduation has worsened the labour shortage issue in Malaysian hospitality sector. Collaboration between higher education institutions and industry players through work integrated learning (WIL) is critical for bridging theoretical knowledge and real-world application in the hospitality sector, thereby improving students' learning processes. Including WIL in the curriculum can help students prepare for their future careers, improve employability skills, and gain a rational understanding of 'knowledge' through the practice of 'action'. This article analyses the effectiveness of WIL practices in hospitality institutions by using survey research design to collect data from hospitality students, educators and industry partners in Johor Bahru and Klang Valley, Malaysia to meet the current needs of hospitality sector.  Particular attention should be focused on enhancing students' self-efficacy, engagement, and satisfaction in Work Integrated Learning (WIL) activities to increase their enthusiasm for pursuing careers in the hospitality sector. Therefore, upcoming hospitality programmes ought to thoughtfully integrate WIL into the curriculum, considering the needs of the industry and the career development pathways of graduates