Experiential learning in sport tourism curriculum: A case study at the university of the Algarve

Abstract

Sport is an important activity for tourists when they travel away from home, and travel experiences are accompanied by different types of sport. This paper focuses on an innovative pedagogical approach based on experiential learning activities. With this study we intend to describe the context, the teaching and learning process, and a real case package proposal that was successfully implemented by a group of undergraduate students. This education approach has been developed for the last three academic years as part of a 3rd year module ‘Sport, Leisure and Tourism’ within Sports undergraduate degree at the University of Algarve (Portugal). The case study method and reflective portfolio, underpinned by experiential learning theory, were designed to create an authentic, enriching and transformative learning experience for all students. The authentic experiential learning had positive impact on the dynamics established in the classroom, where we could see active participation of the students. This education experience allowed the creation of a tourist sport package that fits the objectives of a specific hotel, and allows the diversity of their offer and the attraction of new senior clients.