tomwwood-blog

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Testing

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HBXz2nfT-Fc

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References 

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[tomwwood-blog]

An interesting TedX discussion on Transformative Learning for people incarcerated in prison. Certainly a unique perspective, unique environment, and a diverse range of learners. 

Enjoy! 

Tom 

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Post #3: Partner Discussion

April 22, 2019

Last week I had the opportunity to meet my partner via Skype to discuss trends in fields of education. Funnily enough, my partner and I both teach tourism (she teaches sustainable tourism) and we both lived in Dublin.

Climate Grief

My partner discussed an emerging trend, which she referred to as “Climate Grief” – essentially outlining the (negative) psychological impact that climate change research has on people. My partner struggled to sustainable tourism, because (by definition), sustainable tourism does not exist. Also, it was difficult to excite, engage and motivate students in the content because the research identifies a dystopian future.  

Teaching Controversial Topics 

We also discussed how teachers are facing pressure from institutions to teach less confrontational topics such as rape law, because it may offend students. We agreed that it is a slippery slope and attested that education should remain transparent and knowledge focused. Certain topics may be difficult to process – for example, historical events. That is not to say that the curriculum should not be reviewed and revised to ensure the content is being taught ethically and in a sensitive manner. However, pretending like events never happened or don��t exist is not the solution - in my opinion :) 

Tom Wood 

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Post #2: Distance Learning and the future of B.C institutions

April 4, 2019 

The British Columbia Federation of Students indicate that B.C institutions are now dependant on international tuition revenues (Celeste, 2018, p.2). The report states that “international student fees at universities have risen 485 percent since 1991, from $3,991 in 1991 to $23,331 in 2017. In 2003, undergraduate international tuition fees in British Columbia were the highest in Canada at $13,440 for a year of full-time study, and are currently second highest at $23,331 (for 2017-18)” (p.6).

The constant inflation of tuition costs described as both “unregulated and unfair” is attributing to student dissatisfaction and dropouts, because learners are unable to budget effectively (p.5). Therefore, if the sector does not implement regulatory measures, or attempt to balance domestic and international classrooms/admission costs – the future will be volatile, fragile and unpredictable. 

Marriam and Bierema (2014) attest that technology is reshaping the way that educational institutions operate and affirm that distance learning models are becoming more popular (pp.6-7). Therefore, as distance learning becomes more accessible, affordable and integrated with learning environments – how might this disrupt international enrollment in B.C institutions? It is possible that foreign learners may start to favour distance models for financial savings and ease of delivery. Thus, we may evolve into a system reliant on online distribution, bringing instruction to the doorsteps of both domestic and international learners. 

As an instructor, it is essential to prepare for these types of situations. While the concept may seem radical, it is entirely possible and could change at any moment. Changes in technology or visa requirements could disrupt the private institution sector overnight, and instructors would need to adapt to the changes (quickly) or be forced to explore other opportunities. I believe that staying relevant to trends in technology and education evolution is very important for instructors. Thus, I am preparing to study online delivery courses this summer to keep options open.

References Celeste, L. (2018). International Students in British Columbia. British Columbia Federation of Students. Retrieved on January 23rd, 2019 from http://www.wearebcstudents.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/bcfs_booklet-FINAL.pdf

Merriam, S. B., & Bierema, L. L. (2014). Adult learning: Linking theory and practice. John Wiley & Sons.

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Post #1: Technology Trends in Hospitality & Tourism

April 5, 2019

Automated self-driving vehicles are a trend under close examination for the hotel and travel and tourism industry. Historically, innovations in transportation have been highly disruptive to tourism (Cooper, 2016, pp.6-7). Inventions such as the jet engine and the automobile revolutionized the sector and opened the door to mass tourism in a short window of time (pp.7). The automation of vehicles poses a significant threat to hotels (Friedman & Samrat, 2017, p.9). For example, if a car offered sleeping quarters and could drive through the night, you would have no need for a hotel and would also wake up in your destination, without the stress of having to travel or move the next day.

The travel and tourism industry is no stranger to disruptive innovations in technology. The challenge I face as an instructor is staying relevant to emerging trends. The actuality is that automated vehicles could have a significant impact on hotel jobs, and they are close to becoming a reality. It is important to educate students on these trends so they understand what to expect in the industry. Therefore, I need to stay relevant and keep my finger on the pulse with technology; information that is likely not found in a textbook or an existing course outline.

If you are interested in hearing more about technology innovations in travel. Click the link below for an interesting TedX by Mark McSpadden. Automated vehicles are a key highlight of his presentation: 

References

Cooper, C. (2016). Essentials of tourism. Pearson Higher Ed.

Friedman, M. & Samrat, S. (2017). Hospitality in the Digital Era. Cognizant Business Consulting. Retrieved from https://www.cognizant.com/whitepapers/hospitality-in-the-digital-era-codex2543.pdf

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Introduction

Classmates of PIDP3100 - welcome to my blog! 

My name is Tom Wood and I am an instructor with the School of Tourism & Hospitality Management at Camosun College in Victoria, B.C.  

I worked in hotel operations for the past eleven years and recently made the transition to post-secondary education. I completed my Master of Arts in Tourism Management last year and love to explore trends and technology innovations in travel and tourism. You can expect the focus of my posts to be in either of these fields of study. 

This is my fifth PIDP course and I am excited to endeavour in an exciting learning experience with each of you!

Tom Wood