Experiential Learning: Being a Real-Event Planner

Experiential learning is an effective education method used to bridge the gap between classrooms and the real world. Given the much applied nature of the discipline, scholars and practitioners emphasize the value and importance of experiential learning. This study reports on a case of experiential learning to a convention and meeting management class at the School of Hotel and Tourism Management at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. A total of 30 undergraduate students were given a task to organize a real conference for the school. The process of conducting an experiential learning course of conference organization is discussed. Student feedback on the learning experience of organizing a real event is analyzed. Implications and suggestions for enhancing students’ learning experiences via experiential learning courses are provided.