This presentation showcases the application of HOTS, a hotel management simulation software, in teaching two units at The Hotel School and discusses how the simulation is designed to navigate the challenges of the SCU Model. The presentation firstly examines various methods employed in the two units to engage students and make them active and accountable learners. It is found that valid designs of during-class and out-of-class activities can make students proactive and create authentic learning experiences for them. In addition, the findings also suggest that even when the same simulation is employed in two different units, variations in assessments and simulation designs can avoid repetition and generate unique learning experiences for students in each individual unit. The presentation also investigates challenges in adapting a simulation written to be used in a long timeframe (one- to three-year course) to the short timeframe of a 6-week term. The findings suggest that a creative teaching plan, such as having multiple cycles of simulation in a week, can help to alleviate the challenge of time pressure while still making the simulation effective.
Apostolos, A., Shaw, G. & James, S. (2019). Active learning to improve self-confidence and decision-making skills through the use of hotel simulation. Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Education, 31(3), 125-138. DOI: 10.1080/10963758.2018.1487786
Sauder, M.H., Becker, F., Malcarne, B. & Saville, J. (2020). Team meeting 101: An investigation of cognitive engagement and self-efficacy in a unique active learning instructional technique. A Journal of Leisure Studies and Recreation Education, 35(1), 15-27.
https://doi-org.ezproxy.scu.edu.au/10.1080/1937156X.2020.1720457