A Qualitative Study on Perceptions of Tourism Education by Faculty Members at Tourism Universities

―An Analysis of Educational Aim and Problems by Using “Modified Grounded Theory Approach (M-GTA)”―

Abstract

The aim of the study is to clarify the perspectives of tourism education and its problems by faculty members at tourism universities. This paper conducted semi-structured interviews with nine faculty members at tourism-focused universities and analyzed the data using the Modified Grounded Theory Approach (M-GTA). As a result of the analysis, it was made clear that the aim of tourism universities is to revitalize a regional economy through tourism. Then, the paper proposed the following three-step model to develop such human resources: “Establishment of Foundations,” “Practical Application,” and “Sustainable Regional Contribution.” This model will meet the requirements for tourism education.