Posted: May 16th, 2024

BMIH6001 Contemporary Themes in the Hotel and Hospitality Sector

BMIH6001 Contemporary Themes in the Hotel and Hospitality Sector – LEVEL 6
Module Lead

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Contemporary Themes in the Hotel and Hospitality Sector Spring Term 2024
Welcome to the Contemporary Themes module. This is a level 6, 20-credit module taught in semester 3 to Level 6 students in the academic discipline of hospitality and tourism management. It should be read in conjunction with supplementary information and materials available on Moodle together with information and instructions delivered by the module tutor.

To get the best out of this module it is vital that you engage with the themes explored as well as with both the online and offline activities during tutorial sessions, which are designed to enrich the learning experience as well as to encourage self-directed study together with collaboration and interaction with your peer group.

AIM(S)
• To investigate in depth the contemporary issues affecting the global hospitality industry in practice with a strong focus on sustainability issues. The module will through theoretical study, practical research investigation, and an International (Online) Conference consider in detail practical applications of hotel, hospitality, and tourism management activities within a dimension which should underpin the theoretical concepts highlighted within the programmes.
• To consolidate the students’ understanding of a range of professional hotel, hospitality, and tourism operations through participation in planning, organising, and managing an International Conference. This will give practical experience of both operational, management, and policy issues within a specific international, national, or regional location and allow them to professionally present their research findings.

LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon the successful completion of this module, the student should be able to:
• Systematically evaluate and analyse contemporary issues within a specific area of the hotel industry, which may include exploring current contemporary issues and organising and managing an International Hospitality Conference focusing on topical issues affecting the industry.
• Systematically analyse a range of sociological, political, economic, ethics, and cultural theories and their application within a hospitality destination and in turn evaluate future policy and management options for such operations in order to present a related academic conference paper.

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INDICATIVE CONTENT
• The foundation of the module will be taught through a series of lectures focusing on sociological, political, economic, ethics, and cultural issues. This module builds upon themes explored in other, previously taught, modules to develop and integrate issues explored across the different disciplinary areas. As such, the content of the module will be integrative and apply theoretical concepts gained from previously taught modules which students will apply to an approved topic of their choice.
• Tutorial sessions and guest speakers will enhance background knowledge and will be based upon several contemporary issues related to the theories that have been explored in the lecture and seminar programme. Tutorials will consider differing destinations and locations (where possible field trips would be offered in addition) and encourage students to explore a range of contemporary themes. Through student-centred group work and individual study, the student will be able to produce an academic research paper which is suitable for public presentation within the industry & hospitality education focused conference on ‘Contemporary themes within Hospitality’ that they will facilitate online.
• Seminars will be undertaken focusing on developing the student’s practical Conference Management skills to enable them to plan, organise, market, and manage the Hospitality Conference. Including the skills of presentation, creative writing for paper publication, and development of IT skills to allow for the online conference process.

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Study Time Allocation
The study time for the module is divided as follows:
Activity type Hours Percentage
Scheduled learning 40 25%
Independent learning 160 75%
Placement learning 0 0%
TOTAL 200 100%

ASSESSMENT
Assessment Component 1
(Tick one)
☐ Written exam ☒ Coursework ☐ Practical
Mode of assessment Volume Weighting
Research paper – content will be delivered 2500 words 50%
at conference

Assessment Component 2
(Tick one)
☐ Written exam ☐ Coursework ☒ Practical
Mode of assessment Volume Weighting
Conference presentation 15 minutes 50%

Assessment Summary
Activity type Percentage
Written exam 0%
Coursework 50%
Practical 50%
TOTAL 100%

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INDICATIVE READING LIST
Module Code BMIH6001
Module Title Contemporary Themes in the Hotel and Hospitality Sector
Classification Reading List entry Electronic

Essential Ford R.C, Sturman M.C (2020) Managing Hospitality Organizations 2nd Edn. Sage, London.
Essential Conrady, R., Buck, M. (2012) Trends and Issues in Global Tourism, Springer
Essential Cooper, C. and Hall, M. (2019) Contemporary Tourism: An International Approach, 4th Edn. Goodfellows, Oxford.
Essential Tribe J (2009) Philosophical Issues in Tourism (Aspects of Tourism), Channel View
Further Clegg. S.R, Skyttermoen. T. Vaagaasar .A.L, (2021) Project Management: A Value Creation Approach. Sage, London.
Further Brotherton. B (2015) Researching Hospitality & Tourism 2nd Edn. Sage. London
Further Dawson, J. Lemelin, H. Stewart, E. (2012) Last Chance Tourism: Adapting Tourism Opportunities in a Changing World, Routledge, London
Further Darcy, S. Ambrose, J. Bulhalis, D. (2012) Best Practice in Accessible Tourism: Inclusion, Disability, Ageing Population, and Tourism, Channel View, London
Further Faulkner, B, Moscardo, G, Laws, E, 2001, Tourism in 21st Century. Reflections on Experience. Continuum, London
Further Krippendorf, J, 2011, The Holiday Makers: Understanding the Impact of Leisure & Travel;
Further Laws, E. Prideaux, B. Chon, K. (2007) Crisis Management in Tourism, CABI, Wallingford
Further Mill, R. (2012) Resorts Management and Operations (3rd Ed) Wiley, London
Further Robson, C. (2016) Real World Research, Wiley, Chichester.
Further Wahab S. & Cooper C, 2005, Tourism in the Age of Globalisation, Routledge, Abingdon
Journals Annals of Tourism Research ☒
Journals Current Issues in Tourism ☒
Journals International Journal of Hospitality Management ☒
Journals International Journal of Tourism Research ☒
Journals Tourism Management ☒
Journals Journal of Sustainable Tourism ☒
Websites www.culture.gov.uk ☒
Websites https://www.theisrm.org/ ☒
Websites www.wto.org ☒
Websites www.tourismconcern.org.uk ☒

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Teaching Schedule
Week Time Lecture indicative content main
themes to be covered
Assessment
1 W/C 15/04 9AM –
1PM
Introductions and welcome to the module – Module Handbook, Definitions and Concepts
Assessment Hand out WC 15/04/24
2 W/C 22/04 9AM –
1PM
Overview of themes and Research PESTEL Analysis
3 W/C 29/04 9AM –
1PM
Policy and practice across the hotel sector Confirm Chosen Theme
4 W/C 06/05 9AM –
1PM
Guest Speaker Session TBC Conference Group Allocations released
5 W/C 13/0 9AM –
1PM
Assignment support 1:1
6 W/C 20/05 9AM –
1PM
From conference paper to conference delivery Assignment 1: Research Paper Submission Thursday 23rd May 23:59
7 W/C 27/05 9AM –
1PM
Conference preparation and practice Assignment 2 Conference slides to be submitted by Friday 31st May 23:59
8 W/C 03/06 9AM –
1PM
Conference week Assignment 2 Conference presentation delivery

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LEVEL 6 ASSESSMENT SPECIFICATION
Student name: Student ID number:
Programme: International Hotel Management (BA)
Module: Contemporary Themes in the Hotel and Hospitality Sector.
Module code: BMIH6001 Contribution to Overall Module Assessment (%): 50%
Lecturer: Natalie Brailsford Internal Verifier: Jaliya Da Silva
Assignment Title: Assignment One Conference Research Paper
Word count (or equivalent): 2500
Submission deadline: Thursday 23rd May 2024 23:59
Return date of provisional marks & written feedback: Friday 21st June 2024
Submission method:
All written assessments, where practical and possible, must be submitted via Turnitin unless otherwise instructed by the Lecturer. (Please DO NOT put this assessment specification into Turnitin or it will match many similarities with other students’ submissions.)
Alternative submission method (if applicable):
Late submission of the assessment will result in a late penalty mark:
Work which is submitted up to 1 week late will be capped at 40% for the first attempt and will be awarded a mark of 0% for re-assessment. Late submission penalties may be lifted only if there is an approved extenuating circumstances claim.
Work submitted more than 1 week late will be considered as a non-submission and will not be marked. The work may be considered as a submission for reassessment if offered by an Examining Board or if there is an approved extenuating circumstances claim

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Module Learning Outcomes (from module syllabus)
Upon the successful completion of this module, the student should be able to:
• Systematically evaluate and analyse contemporary issues within a specific area of the hotel industry, which may include exploring current contemporary issues and organising and managing an International Hospitality Conference focusing on topical issues affecting the industry.
• Systematically analyse a range of sociological, political, economic, ethics, and cultural theories and their application within a hospitality destination and in turn evaluate future policy and management options for such operations to present a related academic conference paper.

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TASK DESCRIPTION
Choose one Contemporary Theme from the below four options within the Hotel and Hospitality Sector. You are required to produce a research conference paper incorporating a specific area within the chosen theme, some examples with options below. This is to be presented in a formal conference research paper format.

Identified Themes
Option One Technology
The hospitality and hotel industry are actively embracing technology to enhance guest experiences to streamline operations and experiences.
For example, mobile apps for seamless check-in and check-out processes, keyless entry systems, personalised control of lighting, temperature, and entertainment etc.

Option Two Sustainability
There is a growing emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly practices within the hotel and hospitality sector.
For example, energy-efficient building designs and technologies, waste reduction strategies and recycling programs. Water conservation measures, such as low-flow fixtures and smart irrigation systems, incorporating renewable energy sources like solar panels and geothermal systems to power operations.

Option Three Personalisation
Hotels are increasingly prioritising personalised experiences for their guests.
For example: Greeting guests by name upon arrival and providing customised room settings, such as preferred room temperature, lighting, and even personalised welcome amenities. Recommendations for dining, sightseeing, or entertainment options based on guests’ profiles and past preferences, enhancing their overall experience and satisfaction.

Option Four Staff Shortages and Labor Challenges
The hotel and hospitality sector face significant challenges in recruiting and retaining skilled staff.
For example: shortages of qualified personnel in key positions, high turnover rates, seasonal fluctuations in demand, and the industry’s reputation for long working hours and low wages.

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Guidance for layout
Conference Research Paper – 2,500 words +/- 10%
To be compiled in one Microsoft Word and formatted professionally.
Your research paper should contain the following sections. Suggested word counts are for guidance only.

Title
Abstract

Introduction:
Outline the chosen contemporary theme and explore why it is of importance and relevance for the hotel and hospitality sector. Provide any background detail about the sector and why the contemporary theme is prevalent within the industry. (200 words)
Overview of literature:
Identify a specific area within the chosen theme to focus your study on and examine the real impacts of the contemporary theme according to current literature. Draw on the latest findings from current journal articles and credible sources to get the best marks for this section. (500 words)
Application to the hotel and hospitality sector:
Using a PESTEL analysis, analyse and establish through theory, how the chosen contemporary theme impacts on the hospitality and hotel industry. From previously gained industry knowledge, academic learning, and research, provide examples of industry responses to the chosen contemporary issue, critically reflecting on their levels of impact – strengths and limitations. (1000 words)
Evaluate future policy and management options for the chosen theme:
Building on earlier reflections and evaluation of the chosen theme make future recommendations for the hotel and hospitality industry. (500 words)
Conclusion:
Summarise the key points. Ensure that the conclusion is concise and avoids unnecessary repetition. Use clear and straightforward language to convey your key points and recommendations effectively.
References:
Credible sources for your research from academic journals, online industry sources, and textbooks must be used. This is a 2,500-word paper and so include 25 sources as a minimum. These must also be correctly referenced as in-text citations where appropriate. (not included in the word count).
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NOTE: The guidance offered below is linked to the five generic assessment criteria overleaf.

Engagement with Literature Skills:
Your work must be informed and supported by scholarly material that is relevant to and focused on the task(s) set; you should make use of scholarly reviews and primary sources, where appropriate (for example, refereed research articles and/or original materials appropriate to the discipline). You should provide evidence that you have accessed a wide range of sources, which may be academic, governmental, and industrial; these sources may include academic journal articles, textbooks, current news articles, organisational documents, and websites. You should consider the credibility of your sources; academic journals are normally highly credible sources while websites require careful consideration/selection and should be used sparingly. Any sources you use should be current and up-to-date, mostly published within the last five years or so, though seminal/important works in the field may be older. You must provide evidence of your research/own reading throughout your work, using a suitable referencing system, including in-text citations in the main body of your work and a reference list at the end of your work.
Guidance specific to this assessment:
You should incorporate diverse information about the contemporary theme. Consider whether information you have read or items you have seen online or on television made you interested in the subject, then they will make others interested as well. Be respectful of others who have produced work and cite their work. Show academic honesty and credibility. Whilst it is appreciated that web and other online sources will be referred to also balance this with the use of text-based information from industry journals and reference books. You must include a minimum of 25 reference sources, with in-text citations.

Knowledge and Understanding Skills:
At level 6, you should be able to demonstrate coherent and detailed knowledge and a systematic understanding of the subject area, at least some of which is informed by the latest research and/or advanced scholarship within the discipline. You should be aware of the uncertainty, ambiguity, and limits of knowledge. Your work must demonstrate the growing extent of your knowledge and systematic understanding of concepts and underlying principles associated with the subject area. Knowledge relates to the facts, information, and skills you have acquired through your learning. You demonstrate your understanding by interpreting the meaning of the facts and information (knowledge). This means that you need to select and include in your work

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BMIH6001 Contemporary Themes in the Hotel and Hospitality Sector: Module Overview

The hospitality and tourism industry operates in a constantly evolving global context, necessitating future professionals to critically examine contemporary issues impacting the sector. The BMIH6001 Contemporary Themes in the Hotel and Hospitality Sector module, a 20-credit Level 6 module, aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to systematically evaluate and analyze these issues, with a particular focus on sustainability (Ford & Sturman, 2020). Through a combination of theoretical study, practical research investigation, and the organization of an International (Online) Conference, students gain a comprehensive understanding of the practical applications of hotel, hospitality, and tourism management activities within the context of contemporary challenges.

Theoretical Foundations and Research Skills
The module builds upon the theoretical concepts explored in previous modules, integrating knowledge from various disciplinary areas to provide a holistic perspective on the industry. Lectures focus on sociological, political, economic, ethical, and cultural issues relevant to the hospitality and tourism sector (Cooper & Hall, 2019). Students apply these theoretical concepts to their chosen research topic, conducting a systematic analysis of a specific area within the hotel industry. Tutorials and guest speaker sessions enhance background knowledge and encourage students to explore a range of contemporary themes in different destinations and locations.

Practical Application: International Conference
A key component of the module is the planning, organization, marketing, and management of an International Hospitality Conference by the students. This hands-on experience allows students to develop practical skills in conference management, including presentation, creative writing for paper publication, and the use of information technology for facilitating an online conference (Clegg et al., 2021). By producing an academic research paper suitable for public presentation at the conference, students demonstrate their ability to apply theoretical concepts to real-world issues and effectively communicate their findings to industry professionals and educators.

Assessment and Learning Outcomes
The module assessment consists of two components: a 2,500-word research paper (50% weighting) and a 15-minute conference presentation (50% weighting). Upon successful completion of the module, students should be able to systematically evaluate and analyze contemporary issues within a specific area of the hotel industry, as well as analyze a range of theories and their application within a hospitality destination. Furthermore, students should be able to evaluate future policy and management options for such operations and present their findings in an academic conference setting.

Conclusion
The BMIH6001 Contemporary Themes in the Hotel and Hospitality Sector module provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the current challenges and opportunities facing the industry. By integrating theoretical knowledge, practical research skills, and hands-on experience in conference management, the module prepares students to become well-rounded professionals capable of navigating the complex and ever-changing landscape of the hospitality and tourism sector.

References:
Clegg, S. R., Skyttermoen, T., & Vaagaasar, A. L. (2021). Project management: A value creation approach. Sage.

Cooper, C., & Hall, M. (2019). Contemporary tourism: An international approach (4th ed.). Goodfellow Publishers.

Ford, R. C., & Sturman, M. C. (2020). Managing hospitality organizations (2nd ed.). Sage.

Gössling, S., Scott, D., & Hall, C. M. (2020). Pandemics, tourism and global change: A rapid assessment of COVID-19. Journal of Sustainable Tourism, 29(1), 1-20. https://doi.org/10.1080/09669582.2020.1758708

Phi, G. T. (2021). Framing overtourism: A critical news media analysis. Current Issues in Tourism, 24(3), 362-375. https://doi.org/10.1080/13683500.2019.1618249

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