Experiential learning through the design thinking approach in tourism education

This research focuses on the design and in-class application of a learning model based on the design thinking approach with the philosophy of experiential learning. The design-based thinking process was designed as an educational content that consists of ‘problem’, ‘empathy and define’, ‘ideate’, ‘prototype’ and ‘test’ stages. The research also examined the effectiveness of the application based on student experiences. In this context, the phenomenology approach, one of the qualitative research designs, was used, and observation, interview and document analysis methods were applied in the research. It was found that the activities encouraged tourism students to think creatively and actively, and were also useful in improving communication, teamwork, decision-making and empathy skills of the students. Also, it was concluded that design-based learning, which encourages students to learn by practice, improves memorability, develops a positive attitude towards the course, increases cooperation, and encourages class attendance. It is believed that the research will guide educators on how they will integrate the design thinking approach into the curriculum.