Plotting a Course in Cruise Management Education

Abstract

The current study was conducted to investigate the focus, content and educational approach of cruise management courses offered by three universities (of applied science) in Europe. Data was collected and a content analysis performed on the cruise management courses offered by three universities in Europe. Results indicate the courses currently differ very much from each other. Cruise Management programs in higher education do not have a shared image towards the industry. Educational approaches also vary. Since the programs accept a limited number of students cruise education programs offer a unique opportunity to use new educational approaches. In one of the programs PBL/CBL is the main educational method. In future one could also think about the implementation of open courseware and the use of electronic devices such as E readers. Since it has been proved being one of the most effective approaches to higher vocational education, building on a firm link between the profession and education, we recommend using problem-based learning as the most promising approach to cruise management education.