The Effectiveness of Work-based Reflective Model for In-service Tertiary Tourism English Teachers’ Professional Development

Abstract

With the increasing development of inbound and outbound tourism in China, a greater number of English-speaking tourism professionals are needed. To meet the needs, Tourism English programs were provided in universities and colleges in the country. However, problems occurred with the in-service professional development of Tourism English teachers, who were originally trained as language teachers. Existing training programs could not meet their professional needs. The present study aimed at exploring the effectiveness of the workshop based-on Work-based Reflective (WRB) Model for in-service Tourism English teachers’ professional development in the Chinese context. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected through pre and post-tests, teacher’s logs, mentors’ comments, a questionnaire and semi-structured interview.  The findings showed that the WBR Model was effective in improving in-service Tourism English teachers’ professional development. It could significantly enhance the teachers’ knowledge concerning tourism operation and English teaching ability. It also enables teachers’ self-development through self-reflection.