Tourism English training at the tertiary level in Jordan: Reality and expectations from a university context

Abstract

This qualitative study aims at assessing the possible mismatch of Tourism English skills between the training offered at a university and the skills (tasks) required in the tourism sector in Jordan. To do this, the study uses a combination of two evaluation models to first evaluate the effectiveness of Tourism English (TE) training offered at the university, and then investigate needs and perceptions which might help improve the existing program and plan for a TE course syllabus, accordingly. Interviews were used among 42 stakeholders, representing current Tourism students, graduates, instructors, and local Tourism employers. The results revealed significant gaps between needs and expectations and the training provided. The participants' suggestions as regards the graduates' TE needs and field employability were analyzed, attempting to describe what a TE course syllabus should look like in terms of goals, content and sequencing, format and presentation, and monitoring and assessment.