Assessing the Relationship between Sports Tourism and Career Development Skills among Chinese University Students

Jie Lu; Dr. VIOLETA S. DULATRE; Dr. GLICERIA C. LUNAG

doi:10.54097/ecpat918

Authors

Jie Lu
Dr. VIOLETA S. DULATRE
Dr. GLICERIA C. LUNAG

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54097/ecpat918

Keywords:

Sports Tourism, Self-awareness, Career Exploration, Goal Setting Networking Skills, Resilience, Career Readiness

Abstract

This study examined the correlation between students' engagement in sports tourism and the enhancement of their career development skills, emphasizing aspects such as self-awareness, job exploration, goal setting, networking abilities, resilience, and career preparedness. The study employed descriptive and correlational research techniques to collect data from 400 respondents using validated survey questionnaires. The findings indicated that students' engagement in sports tourism is predominantly at an average level across active, nostalgic, adventure, health and wellness, and cultural sports tourism, with diminished participation in event-based sports tourism. The evaluation of career development competencies was uniformly average across all parameters. Statistical studies revealed no significant variations in participation or skill rating when respondents were categorized by profile characteristics, including sex and year level. A notable positive link was identified between engagement in sports tourism and the development of career skills, with correlation values varying from moderate to high. This underscores the potential of sports tourism as a viable platform for cultivating transferable skills crucial for professional advancement. According to the findings, policy recommendations were suggested, such as incorporating sports tourism into academic curricula, providing customized skill development programs, cultivating collaborations with sports groups, and guaranteeing equitable access to opportunities. These projects seek to augment students' involvement in sports tourism while fostering their comprehensive personal and professional growth.

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