The great turning point: Challenges and solutions for tourism higher education in the AI age
Abstract
In this commentary paper, we argue that the external environment change, especially the AI technology revolution and disruption, would create a “great turning point” for tourism higher education. While facing an unprecedented crisis caused by declining enrollments, changing demographics, shifting societal expectations and sweeping technological disruption, tourism higher education can be transformed and rejuvenated by 1) redefining its scope and purpose; 2) restructuring knowledge systems; 3) revitalizing the research-teaching nexus; 4) repositioning industry engagement; and 5) reevaluating PhD training. These transformations herald a more promising future of tourism higher education; however, tourism educators and researchers occupy the key positions to drive the transformations. We hope through these positive transformations, tourism higher education will find its elevated position in the high education system, better serving the human talent needs of multiple “experience-based” industries or sectors.
Document Type
Journal Article
Date of Publication
1-1-2025
Publication Title
Journal of Teaching in Travel & Tourism
Publisher
Taylor & Francis
School
School of Business and Law
RAS ID
88838
Copyright
subscription content
Comments
Huang, S., & Ho-Mai, N. T. (2025). The great turning point: Challenges and solutions for tourism higher education in the AI age. Journal of Teaching in Travel & Tourism. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1080/15313220.2025.2607356