Fostering Work-integrated Learning in Hospitality and Tourism: An Integration of Leximancer and Students’ Self-reflective Statement Approaches

ABSTRACT Several studies have discussed work-integrated learning in hospitality and tourism education. Unfortunately, few have taken metacognition theory to explore students’ self-reflective learning in this regard. In this study, 144 self-reflective learning statements were collected from undergraduate students in Hong Kong. Results showed the major themes of work-integrated learning revolving around the work details, guests and services, the companies, and diversity of the industry. Learning was also found different across industry sectors. A conceptual framework of work-integrated learning and students’ metacognition was developed. Students’ metacognition focused on such aspects as skill improvement, personal change and development, self-awareness, cross-cultural horizon, and application of class knowledge, thereby leading to their career prospects and recommendations given to the industry or company.