INTRODUCTION
Rationale for study
Communication has been essential to human existence since ancient times, serving as a means to express thoughts, emotions, and information through various forms such as speaking, writing, and gesturing The evolution of language, which consists of spoken, signed, or written symbols, has enabled individuals within social groups to connect and share ideas Over centuries, historical events like wars and territorial changes led to the formation of nations, each with its own language As Western countries advanced, English emerged as a dominant global language, becoming a crucial subject in schools worldwide According to British Study Centers (2020), learning English is vital for job opportunities, networking, accessing information, engaging with media, and experiencing diverse cultures Therefore, prioritizing English language education is increasingly important in today’s interconnected world.
The travel and tourism industry is one of the largest sectors globally, driving economic growth, job creation, social development, and promoting peace, with millions relying on it for their livelihoods This expansive industry encompasses a diverse range of companies, from major global brands to small local operators, creating a significant presence in society and government As interest in the travel field grows, particularly among students seeking to enhance their careers, the path to expertise can be challenging Success in this field requires extensive practice, real-world experience, and an understanding of diverse cultural aspects Additionally, mastering the English language is crucial for effective communication in tourism Consequently, many university students opt to study English Business, with a strong emphasis on English for tourism as a vital component of their curriculum.
Statement of problem
This article explores the learning methods utilized by senior students majoring in Business English within the English language program A survey reveals both the advantages and disadvantages of studying this subject, as well as students' enthusiasm and aspirations related to their coursework.
Research questions
This study intended to answer the following questions:
- What are the student's perception of the importance of English for tourism?
- What are the difficulties and advantages when learning English for tourism students?
Purposes of the study
The primary goal of this study is to highlight the importance of integrating the subject into the curriculum, raising student awareness Upon its introduction, the study assesses both the advantages and disadvantages, helping to identify students' needs regarding the subject Finally, it offers suggestions for addressing the challenges while enhancing the strengths of studying this topic.
English has become a crucial second language for global communication, especially in the commerce and tourism sectors Travelers often rely on English to connect with others, making it easier to navigate different cultures and enhance their experiences As the demand for tourism continues to rise, so does the necessity for effective communication, highlighting the importance of learning English for exchanging information while traveling Mastering English not only facilitates smoother interactions but also enriches the overall travel experience.
At Thu Dau Mot University, English language students specialize in either teaching or business English, with a focus on English for tourism in the business major While many perceive learning English for tourism as only essential for travel, it serves a broader purpose This education equips students with vital skills, preparing them for future opportunities and enhancing their overall experience in the global tourism industry.
That is the reason, I decided to do a study called "Current situation of learning English in tourism of the senior students at Thu Dau Mot University."
LITERATURE REVIEW
History of tourism
Tourism has become a vital economic sector in our country, with its influence steadily growing The history of tourism dates back to the late 18th century, though its roots extend further into the past Organized travel, supported by infrastructure and a focus on significant destinations, can be traced to ancient Greece and Rome, which are considered the origins of both heritage tourism and beach resorts Over the years, tourism has solidified its role, offering meaningful experiences By the early 19th century, travel for health, leisure, and culture became commonplace among the middle class, facilitated by guidebooks, art markets, and improved transport and accommodation systems.
Tourism encompasses travel for leisure or business, along with the practices involved in touring and the operations that attract and accommodate tourists The term "tourist" was first introduced in 1800, followed by "tourism" in 1811, according to Smith (1988) Despite their long-standing presence in the English language, a universally accepted definition for either term remains elusive.
According to Smith (1988, as cited in Leiper), it is unlikely that a universal definition of tourism or tourists will ever exist, as various professionals—such as economists, psychologists, and geographers—interpret tourism through the lens of their respective fields.
Tourism encompasses the activities of individuals traveling to and staying in locations outside their usual environment for leisure, business, or other purposes, typically for no more than one consecutive year It is a dynamic and competitive industry that must continually adapt to the evolving needs and desires of customers, prioritizing their satisfaction, safety, and enjoyment The term "tourism" often refers to the movement of tourists and can also denote broader concepts involving people, places, and components According to Lieper (1979), definitions of tourism can be categorized into three main types based on their economic content.
Liepcr's review highlights the dual nature of "technical" and "holistic" perspectives in tourism, yet it overlooks the multitude of definitions that exist due to the diverse applications of the term His aim is to establish a single, comprehensive definition that is widely accepted in the field.
The origin of the English language
English history is typically categorized into three distinct periods: Old English (or Anglo-Saxon), Middle English, and Modern English As a member of the Indo-European language family, English shares connections with many languages spoken across Europe and Western Asia, from Iceland to India.
English is part of the Indo-European language family, linking it to many languages across Europe and western Asia, from Iceland to India Approximately 5,000 years ago, the ancestral language Proto-Indo-European was spoken by nomadic tribes in southeast Europe Scholars classify the Germanic languages, a descendant of this root, into three geographical groups: East (including extinct languages like Burgundian, Vandal, and Gothic), North (comprising Icelandic, Faroese, Norwegian, Swedish, and Danish).
West (Norwegian, Swedish, and Danish) (German, Dutch [and Flemish], Frisian, and English) (Potter and Crystal, 2020) Indian,
2.3 Application of English in the subject of tourism
2.3.1 The use of English in tourism
English is essential in various specialized fields, including Civil Engineering, Computing, Music, Medicine, and Business Specifically, English for tourism and hospitality plays a crucial role in international tourism and service sectors, emphasizing its practical application As highlighted by Zahedpisheh, Bakar, and Saffari (2017), English has become a dominant language across diverse areas such as education, technology, media, science, tourism, and medicine.
According to a survey and results of Needs Analysis on English
The use of English in the tourism industry is becoming increasingly essential, particularly in Thailand, where tourism employees recognize the importance of listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills to effectively engage with foreign visitors This trend is driven by the significant influx of international tourists, which has provided ample opportunities for employees to utilize English while guiding tourists through various attractions and events As the most widely spoken foreign language globally, English facilitates better interaction and communication in the tourism sector Additionally, the growth of transdisciplinarity in tourism research emphasizes the need for diverse knowledge exchange and collaboration across multiple disciplines, contributing to the evolution of tourism-related knowledge.
2.3.2 English tourism application to teaching
As tourism and English language skills gain popularity, it is essential for educators to integrate these elements into their teaching methodologies, fostering meaningful connections for both teachers and learners Students benefit from tours and extracurricular activities throughout their primary and high school years, which help shape their perceptions of travel and education Educational visits are crucial for various attractions, with many relying on school groups for up to 10% of their total attendance Attracting educational groups is economically advantageous, as they typically visit during weekdays or off-peak seasons, providing vital support for fixed costs during times of lower visitor numbers.
2.3.3 Tourism in English at Thu Dau Mot University
In the era of national industrialization and modernization, the tourism service industry plays a crucial role in attracting visitors to Vietnam Many tourists are eager to explore the rich culture of the country, highlighting the importance of interaction to share and learn about Vietnam's cultural heritage When surveyed about the significance of this topic, most respondents acknowledged its relevance, particularly when it was incorporated into the curriculum for final year students in the major.
Exposure to English for tourism in a university setting significantly benefits students, as the tourism service industry is crucial for national industrialization and modernization With a growing number of tourists visiting Vietnam, effective communication in English becomes essential for engaging with them Proficiency in English not only facilitates interaction with international visitors but also enhances job prospects in the tourism sector, making it a vital skill for aspiring professionals.
Learning English simplifies the process of making friends and expressing your thoughts in any situation Whether you're at an airport addressing an issue or ordering food and services at a hotel, effective communication in English ensures clarity and ease Mastering the language empowers you to articulate your needs and maximize the value of your experiences.
When you can speak English as a common language, it is easier for you to meet interesting people and build new relationships, and from there, learn a lot from their lifestyle
Knowing English significantly boosts your confidence while traveling, as it allows you to express your thoughts clearly and make new friends With the ability to understand conversations and ask questions, you can enhance your safety by avoiding risky situations Additionally, speaking English facilitates a deeper understanding of the local culture, enriching your learning experience abroad.
Job opportunities from English tourism
Learning English for tourism opens up numerous job opportunities for students, particularly those studying business English With the right learning methods and the ability to seize internship opportunities, students can find roles in various companies, both large and small Potential job positions include receptionists and office staff at major hotels and resorts, English-speaking tour guides, assistants to department heads and directors, marketing staff for tourism projects, customer care specialists, sales personnel, and tour operators in travel agencies Additionally, there are roles in ticketing, booking, and reception within travel agencies and hotels that require English proficiency.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
The survey questionnaires
The students' questionnaire consists of fourteen items divided into three sections, focusing on objective questions relevant to the study The first section includes three questions aimed at confirming that respondents are final-year Business English students at Thu Dau University The second section explores senior students' perceptions of the importance of Tourism English, addressed in questions 3, 4, and 5 The third section examines the methods of studying English for Tourism among final-year students, including study time and skill application (questions 6, 7, 8, and 9) Lastly, the survey gathers senior students' opinions on the Business English Tourism major to gain insights into their expectations (questions 10 to 12) This questionnaire is designed to extract valuable information across these key areas.
Question 1: To know the student's school year
Question 2: To know the major of the students
Question 3: Students' awareness of the importance of English communication in tourism
Question 4: Students' awareness of the importance of English for tourism
Question 5: Know the importance of English for tourism in career opportunities
Question 6&7: To know the time that students spend in English tourism at home
Question 8: Know the skills that students use when learning English for tourism
Question 9: To know supporting tools when students learn English of Tourism
Question 10: To see some advantages of learning English for Tourism
Question 11: To find out some difficulties when learning English for tourism
Question 12: To collect more ideas on what to expect from the subject
For this research, I opted for primary research, which involves collecting data directly rather than relying on previously gathered information This approach eliminates unreliable data and allows researchers to focus deeply on the topic Additionally, primary research provides control over data collection and usage, leading to more insightful results Given these advantages, primary research is the most effective method for this study.
I used a quantitative method since this method helps the researcher to collect and analyze numerical data which can be mathematically computed
Due to the dangers posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, a quantitative method will be conducted online, as conducting surveys in specific locations presents significant challenges and makes the data collection process more difficult.
For my online surveys, I employed a purposive sampling strategy, allowing me to use my judgment to select participants who could provide the most valuable insights for my research Consequently, I targeted 120 participants from various English Business class groups at Thu Dau Mot University.
Data collection
The quantitative method will utilize an online survey created with Google Forms, featuring a well-structured questionnaire designed by the author This questionnaire will include 12 closed-ended questions with multiple-choice answers, allowing participants to easily select their responses To participate, respondents will need access to mobile devices, laptops, or computers with an Internet connection, and the survey will be shared in English Business classes to attract participants One significant advantage of this survey method is its efficiency, as it takes participants only 3-5 minutes to complete, which is likely to result in a high response rate Additionally, conducting the survey online will significantly reduce costs for the researcher during implementation.
The data analysis
With the teacher's approval, an online survey was distributed among student groups, offering a time-efficient and safe method for data collection during the COVID-19 pandemic The quantitative data will be analyzed using Google Forms, which will close after data collection Once gathered, Google Forms will present the findings in charts and tables, allowing the researcher to identify relationships and trends Descriptive Statistics will be utilized to summarize the data, with percentages commonly used to illustrate how specific respondent groups relate to the overall population, such as in the case of age and gender distribution.
3.3.1Information about the person who is taking the survey
The figure 3.3.1 and figure 3.3.2 in part 1 of the survey shows that the
A survey conducted with 120 senior English majors at Thu Dau Mot University, all specializing in English Business, ensures that the respondents align with the survey's objectives This targeted approach enhances the likelihood of obtaining accurate and objective results.
Figure 3.1 The student's school year
3.3.2 Students' awareness of the importance of English communication in tourism
In this table, respondents had to tick on the boxes that describe their opinion
The level of important would be presented by number from one to five
(1)Not important, (2) Less important, (3)So important, (4)Important, (5)Very important
3 Do you think English is the important language to communicate when traveling?
4 Do you realize that learning
English for tourism is important or not?
5 Do you think the subject would have high job prospects?
Table 3.1 Students' awareness of the importance of English communication in tourism
Awareness of the significance of English in tourism is crucial, as it directly impacts job opportunities and effective communication while traveling A survey revealed that 31% of respondents consider English "important," while 34% deem it "very important" for travel interactions, highlighting the necessity of English in the tourism industry In contrast, fewer respondents selected "not important" or "less important," underscoring the prevailing belief in English as a vital language for tourists.
A recent survey revealed that 56% of students consider learning English for tourism to be "very important," highlighting a growing trend in the necessity of English communication while traveling Nearly 70% of respondents believe that the Travel English module is crucial for their Business English major and enhances career opportunities post-graduation While a small number of students view the subject as unimportant due to reasons such as lack of aptitude or unrelated career goals, the majority recognize the significance of the English for Tourism module, affirming that English is an essential language for effective communication during travel.
3.3.3 The method of studying English Tourism for senior students
Students enrolled in the English for tourism course receive only 3 hours of in-class instruction per week, which is insufficient for mastering the material Consequently, many students must supplement their learning at home, leading to varying daily study times According to survey results, 54% of students dedicate 1 to 2 hours daily to their studies, while 35% spend 2 to 4 hours Only 11% report studying for more than 4 hours a day Despite the limited daily study time, students typically engage in their studies 2 to 3 days per week, balancing their English learning with other subjects and personal commitments.
Figure 3.3 The time students spend studying English for tourism for a day
2-4 hours / day more than 4 hours / day
Figure 3.4 The time students spend studying English for tourism for a week
Effective language learning hinges on four essential skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing In English education, these foundational skills are crucial for students, particularly in their final year, as they enhance overall learning experiences A recent survey indicates that a significant majority of students prioritize listening and speaking skills, underscoring their importance in effective communication, which involves both conveying and receiving information This is especially vital in the tourism sector, where understanding tour guides and effectively communicating needs are key The data reveals that over 70% of students actively apply these skills in their studies, highlighting their relevance in academic and real-world contexts.
Reading and writing skills account for only 30% of students' learning, often leading to boredom and decreased interest compared to the more engaging listening and speaking skills, which are deemed essential for tourism With the rise of technology and the country's push toward modernization, many students are turning to electronic devices like phones and laptops to enhance their learning experience Mobile apps, such as Duolingo, are popular for teaching vocabulary and communication skills, with 19% of participants opting for app-based learning Surprisingly, 57% of respondents prefer learning through media platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and TV, highlighting the growing reliance on social media for educational purposes While traditional methods like reading documents and dictionaries still hold some appeal, they account for a mere 12% and 10% of preferences, respectively, indicating a significant shift toward modern learning approaches.
Figure 3.5 Students’skill to learn English Tourism
Media (Youtube, facebook,TV, ) Read documents and specialized books Learn through the app on the phone Read dictionary
Figure 3.6 How students learn English Tourism
3.3.4 Senior students' opinions on English Tourism major of Business
At the start of the first semester, students enrolled in the English for Tourism course are eager to explore various tourist destinations through presentations A survey on favorable conditions for learning English in this context reveals significant insights, as shown in Table 3.2 In class, students gain skills to anticipate potential travel issues and acquire specialized vocabulary essential for their future careers or personal travel However, they also face challenges such as overwhelming vocabulary loads, lack of communication practice, difficulty in finding partners for practice, and inadequate school facilities, as highlighted in Table 3.3.
The majority of students believe that learning English for tourism is beneficial, particularly for acquiring essential travel skills such as booking hotels and air tickets, with 34% emphasizing the importance of effective teaching to avoid information overload Additionally, 28% of students find learning about popular destinations engaging, while 23% appreciate the opportunity to understand diverse cultures Finally, 15% see English proficiency as a valuable asset for job opportunities in the tourism sector.
The challenges faced by students include a lack of practice facilities, insufficient university equipment, and the overwhelming need to memorize extensive vocabulary for the subject Survey results indicate that 36% of respondents highlighted the absence of practical settings, while 23% pointed to the burden of excessive vocabulary Additionally, 21% noted the importance of communication skills in the curriculum, and 20% expressed that the school's circumstances do not provide adequate support.
Question Get to know more tourist destinations
Know the necessary information when traveling
Know more about the different cultures of each region
What are the advantages when learning
Table 3.2 The advantages when learning English for tourism
Question There is no place to practice
The school's facilities are not sufficiently supported
What are the disadvantages when learning
Table 3.3 The difficulties when learning English for tourism
Students express a strong desire for additional support and resources to excel in their studies, emphasizing the importance of having the best opportunities for their academic and future career success.
Students' inspiration for the subject varies widely, with many citing job opportunities like tour guides, business professionals, and travel consultants as motivating factors However, some students express less enthusiasm, viewing it merely as a compulsory course To enhance engagement and interest, I propose innovative suggestions to make the subject more appealing rather than treating it as an obligation.
DISCUSSION AND FINDINGS
Discussion
A recent survey indicates that students majoring in English Business are positively engaged and supportive of their studies, recognizing the subject's importance to their curriculum and its role in national advancement amid globalization and industrialization As seniors, they are particularly aware of the career opportunities that await them after graduation, further fueling their enthusiasm This major not only broadens their horizons but also provides them with in-depth knowledge of diverse cultures, global travel processes, and procedures While these advantages have sparked excitement and involvement among students, there remain challenges that hinder their mastery of the subject.
Despite the convenience offered by the Internet and technology, many individuals remain hesitant to utilize these resources for studying While the frequency of studying this subject is relatively stable on a daily and weekly basis, students aiming for specialization must increase their practice beyond school hours Additionally, the subject requires the mastery of complex academic vocabulary, making it challenging for many students at the outset The study also highlights a growing demand for knowledge in this area, which is expected to rise with societal advancements and improved living standards Furthermore, the survey collected various comments and suggestions from participants, aimed at enhancing study methods and conditions.
Findings
Tourism English is an essential yet underexplored subject for Business English major students, as highlighted by a recent survey Final year students must develop the necessary skills and experience to prepare for their careers post-graduation Effectively absorbing and applying this knowledge in relevant contexts can lead to significant insights While mastering English for tourism presents its challenges, it is neither too easy nor overly difficult for students The research findings will reveal both the advantages and disadvantages faced by learners in this field To enhance engagement and make the subject more appealing, the researcher offers several recommendations.
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Conclusion
In conclusion, the status of English studies for business majors at Thu Dau Mot University is promising, as students recognize the subject's significance and engage in both school and home learning However, the current learning conditions and practical opportunities are insufficient for students to fully develop their skills and gain valuable experience for future employment A survey of 120 students indicates that the subject enhances career prospects and awareness among final-year students in today's industrialized society Beyond preparing for travel, students also gain essential knowledge that equips them for future job opportunities.
Recommendations
To enhance students' understanding of the significance of English for travel in their majors, it is crucial to introduce this subject earlier in their academic journey rather than waiting until their final year This proactive approach will help students recognize the value of the course for future endeavors, such as travel and professional work, ultimately leading to greater benefits Additionally, increasing awareness will empower students to engage in self-study and seek more opportunities for practice outside of university hours To facilitate this, early orientation, such as welcome ceremonies for freshmen or interactions between alumni and current students, is essential Furthermore, lecturers should guide students in developing personalized study plans that align with their individual capabilities.
To enhance learning, students should engage in extracurricular lessons and practical training sessions, such as tour guides and case studies, which allow them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations These activities not only increase student interest but also foster an environment for English communication Additionally, participation in regular extracurricular activities organized by foreign language clubs provides valuable opportunities for students to connect, learn, and share experiences with their peers.
The reference system for learning English communication should focus on the effective establishment, utilization, and distribution of resources, including books, newspapers, magazines, and relevant software and applications Additionally, the size of the student cohort is crucial, as a moderate number of students allows teachers to facilitate participation and practice more effectively This optimal class size enables lecturers to identify and address individual mistakes, enhancing the learning experience for each student.
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This questionnaire serves as a vital tool for gathering essential information for my research titled "Current Situation of Learning English in Tourism for Senior Students at Thu Dau Mot University." Your responses are crucial and will significantly impact the success of this study I kindly ask you to take the time to answer all the questions thoroughly.
Thank you for your cooperation!
I Please put a tick () in the box beside the option(s) appropriate to you
2 Which of the following skills do you like best?
Part 2: Survey about student’s perceptions of learning English
3 Do you think English is the suitable language to communicate when traveling?
4 Do you realize that learning English for tourism is important or not?
5 Do you think the subject would have high job prospects?
Part 3 - The method of studying English Tourism for final year students
6 How many hours a day do you spend learning English for tourism?
Part 4 – Students’ opinions on English Tourism major Business English and expect ideas from the subject
7 How many days a week do you usually spend studying English for tourism?
8 What skills in English do you often learn for tourism?
9 What supporting tools do you learn for tourism in English?