Dissertation Topic
An experiment that measures community as a result of using online social networking in tourism/hospitality classses.
This research was conducted to measure community as a result of using an online social network in tourism/hospitality classes. The importance of this study was based on evidence students experience academic disengagement, lack of persistence, and disconnect during the academic experience – the
same
time colleges and universities introduce programs to encourage engagement and increase retention. The challenge addressed through this
study was to use the Connectivist Theory of Learning as a catalyst to understand the elements of online social networking that could be integrated into the classroom – ultimately enhancing the student learning community.
A quantitative research study was completed through an experimental design. Two tourism/hospitality classes in a Midwestern city in Michigan were selected as the research site and the sample populations of 30 participants in each class were exposed to learning materials through the traditional Blackboard design, with one class receiving the materials also via a closed group on Facebook. After 14 weeks, both classes were asked to complete an online survey which included additional open-ended questions that further probed the participants’ thoughts about the role of Facebook in the classroom. The primary online social networking tool used was Facebook.
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Publications
Tuma, L. (in progress). Facebook! The integration of social media in tourism classes. International Society of Travel and Tourism Educators (ISTTE), Long Beach, California, October, 2010.
Tuma, L. & Pybus, D. (2009). The impact of a global meeting curriculum on the tourism industry. In L. Lowry (Ed.), Proceedings of the 2009 Annual International Society of Travel and Tourism Educators (ISTTE) Conference, October 15-17, 2009, in San Antonio, Texas (Vol. 21, pp 346-349). St. Clair Shores, MI: International Society of Travel & Tourism Educators.
Tuma, L. (2009, February). Global Certificate in Meeting Business & Events I (GCMBE). Meeting Professionals International. Dallas, TX: MPI Press. Modified three existing courses, developed one new course and authored corresponding anciliaries and instructor manuals for the international certification program.
- Chapter 1: The Business of Meetings: Meetings 101
- Chapter 7: Registration & Housing
- Chapter 9: Audio-Visual Basics and The Supply Chain Management
- Chapter 12: Event Marketing
Tuma L. (2008, November). Global Certificate in Meeting Business & Events I. Meeting Professionals International. Dallas, TX: MPI Press. Developed four new courses and authored corresponding ancillaries for the international certification program.
- Chapter 2: The Business of Meetings: Meetings 101
- Chapter 5: Evaluating the Value & Impact of Meetings
- Chapter 9: Audio-Visual Basics
- Chapter 11: Event Marketing
Curriculum & Program Development
Mid Michigan Community College, Department of Occupational Studies, Harrison, Michigan, 2007. Developed three 27-credit occupational certificate programs funded by the State of Michigan.
- Records Information Management Certificate Program - 27 credits
- Medical Office Secretary Certificate Program - 27 credits
- Legal Office Secretary Certificate Program - 27 credits
Mid Michigan Community College, Department of Occupational Studies, Harrison, Michigan, 2007. Developed a business course that teaches records management, medical communications, and professionalism.
- Medical Office Procedures Course, BIS 255 - 3 credits