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Abstract

The changing need of higher education to interface more effectively with industry has been widely documented, as has the rising awareness of those attributes which most benefit graduates seeking employment. A key way in which third-level institutions can build stronger partnerships with employers, and assist their students in postgraduate success, is through the provision of work placements. This paper presents research conducted in relation to work placement in the hotel industry, from the perspective of both hoteliers who facilitated the work placements and students who undertook placements. Primary research was conducted with both hoteliers and students. The findings from the paper illustrate that placement is an important component of third-level programmes and is one of the most vital experiences on which graduates base their career aspirations. There is an onus, therefore, on higher education institutions and employers to ensure that the placement experience is as rewarding as possible for students. Placement provides opportunities for higher education institutions and employers to work together to produce graduates with appropriate knowledge, skills and competence to meet existing and emerging business needs. Work placements also provide opportunities for students to develop soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and multi-tasking skills, which are essential in learning and work situations as well as part of general life skills for employees.

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