Do You Speak Digital? – A Literature Review on Language and Digital Competences in Tourism Education

Abstract

Purpose -As tourism has become a prominent industry, there has been a growing demand for skilled professionals, who are able to adapt to technology-laden markets. In this setting, digital development and communication take on an important role, making it necessary to reshape the way tourism education is approached, focusing on the skills required of today's graduates. English is currently the most important global language and it is ranked as a crucial skill for tourism workers. The main goal of this study is to collect, analyse and cross-reference evidence as to the development of language and digital competences in Tourism Education and how they are leveraging digital transformation. Methodology -The methodology used was based on a literature review focusing on digital technology in the scope of English for Specific Purposes (ESP). The data retrieved was analysed as to outline key concepts and best practices within tourism education. Findings -As the market requires tourism graduates to possess transversal skills, being fluent in English is decisive. Research shows that tourism students need more exposure to technical jargon and quality resources, as there are still significant gaps when it comes to using specific terminology and vocabulary. With technology playing a pivotal role, it is important that tourism education keeps up with current technological developments and changes. Contribution -Tourism professionals should be proficient English users, capable of interacting, understanding and communicating relevant information. Leveraged by digital technology, this study makes a contribution towards the on-going discussion on the need to reshape tourism education and update the curricula.

Transversal Competences in Engineering Degrees: Integrating Content and Foreign Language Teaching

“…The use of different methodologies and multi-disciplinary approach is key in learning transversal competence, improving the educational process [13]. With the objective of a correct interpretation of the term "transversal competence", we underscore that transversal competence is the ability of the student to communicate, manage, relate, create and recognize [14].…”