PSSPHO350 - Special Project: Experiential Learning in the Hospitality Industry

Experiential Learning

Semester Credits: 3

Contact Hours: 150

Prerequisites: Cover letter, CV, and material pertinent to the chosen area, interview.

Description: 3 semester credits. Through this special project course, students are involved in front of the house hospitality operations and projects related to Ganzo and Fedora, the creative learning labs and dining establishments of Apicius that are open to the local community. Under the guidance of the CEMI management, students will gain firsthand experiences involving customer relations and satisfaction, service, food and beverage operations, collaborative and interpersonal communication between FOH and BOH, and above all practice hospitality skills in an international context. EL hours may be distributed from Monday through Friday. This placement may require PM and weekend/holiday shifts, or ongoing research-based activities for remote placements. 
This special project course features experiential learning hours with our Community Engagement Member Institutions (CEMI). CEMI are dynamic learning environments created to foster learning through a structured interaction with the community. Remote option students will gain international community exposure through a virtual setting.
Students will be involved in learning by doing through real projects and integration with the local population and territory in order to remove cultural and learning barriers as well as to develop a strong likelihood for success in life.
The experiential learning hours are fully supervised by instructors who track students step by step during their learning experience, monitor and advise according to student needs, and support student initiative. This unique learning model allows students to benefit from an all-encompassing educational experience based on theory and practice in real enterprises, learning of comprehensive operational processes, problem-solving, leadership, and management. 
 Main tasks: Industry research and market trends analysis, operational involvement and analysis, client relations, performance analysis of services, consumer trend observations and projections, strategic planning for hospitality businesses, final portfolio. Additional Materials/Dress code: Dress code: Black trousers and clean safety (closed) shoes required. A t-shirt and apron will be provided for a refundable deposit fee. Not applicable to remote option. Prerequisites: Cover letter, CV, and material pertinent to the chosen area, interview.