Practical guidance as a graduation modality and professional development in tourism: an Ecuadorian university case

Abstract

This research analyzes the incidence of academic and professional training in integrating the degree modality: the practical guidance in students of the National Tourism Guide career at the University of Tourism Specialties (UDET) in Quito, Ecuador. It is based on Kolb's experiential learning theory, which establishes a four-stage learning cycle: concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation. The study evaluates how this approach strengthens theoretical understanding and practical application of knowledge in future tourism professionals. For this purpose, a Holistic and Experiential Learning Evaluation Instrument (HELEI) was designed, which combines quantitative and qualitative methods to present results that show that this approach fosters better integration of theoretical knowledge with practical experience, strengthening meaningful learning, sustainability, and intercultural education. The research highlights the importance of consolidating practical guidance as a central axis in training tourist guides in Ecuador.