Identifying Essential Sustainability Knowledge Areas for Master's-Level Hospitality Graduates: A Preliminary Study of Thai Industry Perspective

Abstract

Sustainability has become an important strategy of the hospitality sector resulting in new expectations towards graduates to have knowledge concerning sustainable business practices. Although existing research in sustainability has proposed a competency framework for graduates in this field, there is no empirical research specifying subject content or knowledge issues regarding sustainability that should be included in the hospitality management program in order to be in congruence with the needs of the industry.

            In this research investigation, the researchers focus on fulfilling this gap by identifying sustainability-related contents that business operators in the hospitality business expect master’s degree graduates to understand. In this research, the researchers used the reference of the sustainability issue from research articles as a framework. The technique of semi-structured interview was conducted with ten key informants from the education sector, the hospitality business sector, and related organizations in Thailand.

            Data were analyzed using the technique of content analysis. Eleven sustainability knowledge issues essential for master’s degree graduates were found. Findings showed the integration of strategies, operational, and systematic competencies with an emphasis on systems thinking, accountability, and impact measurement. The research findings propose a conceptual framework for curriculum designs in order to ensure that the study of hospitality is in consonance with the expectations of the industry and an approach of contemporary sustainability. It is also empirical evidence reflecting the perspective of the business operators in the context of Thailand.