Social networks and digitalization: strategies to promote training trajectories in tourism students

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of social media and digitalization on tourism students' learning pathways. It aims to analyze how digital tools and strategies can enhance educational experiences and skill development in tourism. The research employed a three-phase methodology: initial planning and data collection, thematic selection and resource allocation, and final presentations with evaluation. Students collaborated in teams, focusing on various aspects of digital content creation and dissemination, including social media management, website development, and multimedia production. Key findings reveal that students demonstrate adaptable skills in navigating the digital landscape but require further development in media and digital literacy. The pilot study successfully showcased the potential of integrating digital tools and social media into tourism education, leading to improved engagement and practical skill application. However, the authors acknowledge the limitations of the pilot study's scope and methodology. The study concludes that integrating digital strategies can significantly enhance learning outcomes for tourism students. It recommends further research with more robust methodologies, such as triangulation, to validate the findings and explore broader applications across diverse educational settings.