Exploring the application of Design Thinking to develop a work-based learning programme for hospitality and tourism
Authors:   , Searle Rosalind 
Published: May 2024

Due to the significant effect the COVID-19 epidemic had on employment and education within the tourism and hospitality sectors (Cameron et al., 2022; Carr, 2020; Fletcher et al., 2022) the purpose of this research project was to identify whether a different approach to vocational learning could better equip learners with the skills necessary to be work-ready. This research aimed to explore the application of a design thinking methodology to the development of a work-based learning programme for hospitality and tourism that serves the needs of industry and learners. The following fundamentals formed the basis of the research. • Explore the insights that can be gained by applying Design Thinking theory as a critical lens to evaluate teaching and learning initiatives in Tourism and Hospitality • Independently apply knowledge and implement this into the development of work-based learning pedagogic approach in tourism and hospitality education. • Evaluate the use of Design Thinking as a tool for pedagogic development through rigorous intellectual analysis, reflective practice, criticism and problem-solving. Initially, the methodology was Design Thinking incorporated into a work-based learning environment. However, the structure of the project had to be modified as a result of my transition to another role outside of Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology. As this was a major pivot, I realised that by creating a reflective case study, I could discover how Design Thinking might feature in the study. Therefore, Design Thinking was used to explore the insights of how Design Thinking could be applied to a living event in an educational setting. The key insights were that a Design Thinking approach to hospitality and tourism education enables learners to grow holistically because the skills are not technical rather 21st Century skills whereby the learners develop both soft and core skills. Additionally, there was evidence of increased levels of student confidence, motivation, whanaungatanga and interdisciplinary collaboration. However, there were challenges and the following recommendations were made. Design Thinking can be messy and for Design Thinking pedagogy to be implemented into a curriculum there needs to be collaboration across a variety of sectors and you need tutorial staff with agile ability to cope with different needs. Moving away from a prescribed delivery dictates the need to develop a toolbox of resources and as traditional education is highly structured and prescribed compared with Design Thinking which responds to ‘just in time’ teaching there-needs to be flexibility without time constraints. Through my experience as a practitioner, I have gained invaluable insights from completing my Master of Professional Practice. A key outcome from my research project is the ability to view and formulate innovative pedagogic concepts by approaching it through a Design Thinking perspective. My development has spanned the kaiako role I held within Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology, to the role as Ringa Whanake (Qualifications Development Facilitator) and a researcher. My new learning was a lived experience, unfolding and empowering changes to my practice.