The Benefits of Active Study

The concept of ‘active study’ is of vital importance when one is in the process of forging a career. It cannot be denied that there is only so much that a text book or lecture can provide. These forms of teaching equip you with the knowledge of the specific subject, but knowledge without the ability of application, is worthless.
Problem based learning (PBL) as well as case-based learning (CBL) is without a doubt the optimal method through which to encourage students to study and ‘actively’ learn in a way that suits their specific personality. This is a practice that is used across many disciplines such as anthropology, which is not directly related to hotel management, but it is the stud of interpreting and analyzing human behavior, which is a pre-requisite of the hospitality course.

It needs to be understood that learning never ends; we are constantly subject to new experiences that form as our capabilities and the overarching epistemology of the world, no matter how subtle, consciously or unconsciously wheels through us for all of our days.

Universities, while they provide an excellent education, are guilty of a focus that is too narrow for application once the student has graduated. For example, a test or exam only asks questions in which you are required to apply the knowledge to that specific subject, there is no negative aspect to this at all, but the ‘real world’ demands a diverse range of practical skills through which they may approach and forward a career and this is where problem-based learning has the upper hand.

According to Bloom’s taxonomy, the highest forms of questions that can be asked are those that require evaluation, analysis or creation and PBL provides the students with questions at this level, which will serve them well once they have graduated.

Hotel schools in South Africa will have a choice of specialisations from which students may choose. The knowledge and work ethic that they have acquired through problem-based learning will pay off during this next step. Through the various specialisations, students may find exactly the career of which they were dreaming.

The concept of “active study” needs to be implemented in all institutions, even in courses that wouldn’t necessarily give it consideration; you learn far more dealing with the subject matter, hands –on, rather than in a dusty textbook.

Through this, an international hospitality management degree will give graduates the edge that they need to be successful in their career.

Original Source: Smaak Hospitality

Important Travel Information

South Africa is Africa’s most modern and developed nation, offering almost all first-world facilities to their locals and guests. Depending on where you travel however, you might catch a glimpse of just why South Africa is still categorised as a third-world country. Although South Africa has most needed facilities and services on offer, in many areas the resources for them are limited. For these reasons, it’s important for you to take extra precautions when travelling to South Africa, along with the conventional research that precedes all travels.

When visiting any country it’s vital that you research accommodation before visiting. After a long day of travelling and exploring, there’s nothing better than having a roof over your head and a clean bed to sleep in. When on holidays in South Africa you won’t find a shortage of places to rest your head, however you might want to research each establishment to make sure that you’ll get what you pay for and that they’re in close proximity to the attractions and towns that you want to visit.

Book accommodation as soon as you’ve booked your flights. Once you’ve booked your accommodation you can investigate public transport and car hire companies. Also, take a look at the activities that you might want to do and book ahead where you can to make sure that you don’t miss out.

While you’re booking those essentials, make sure that you’ve filled out your visa application forms and have sent them out to the various consulates and embassies to be processed. Also make sure you’ve bought travel insurance and have an international driver’s licence. If you’re a member of a SADC country and are bringing your own vehicle into South Africa, you’ll need to have its ownership papers, however you will be able to use your own drivers licence. If you choose to, you can easily change currency at any one of the banks in South Africa.

If you have any special needs or medical requirements always research and plan ahead. Where possible, bring all needed medical prescription tablets and extra prescriptions with you on your holiday. Although pharmacies are incredibly well stocked in the cities, when moving into rural regions you might face a few problems with stock. Many holiday resorts and lodges go out of their way to ensure that their premises and rooms are wheel chair friendly, however it’s a good idea to phone ahead and alert them to your needs.

And lastly, familiarize yourself with the political situation of the areas you’ll be visiting before leaving on your holiday. However, when on holidays to South Africa it’s unlikely that you’ll find yourself in the middle of a political battle.

When planning South Africa holidays it’s vital that you plot your movements and where you’ll want to stay. South Africa is an incredibly tourist friendly nation and the hospitality industry here will go out of its way to ensure that your vacation runs smoothly and that every member of your travelling party is looked after and catered for. Simply do your research, plan ahead and then kick back and relax as your holiday unfolds – it’s always best to be prepared for anything.

Original Source: Holidays to South Africa