The LPU-Batangas College of International Tourism and Hospitality Management (CITHM) launches the first interactive Virtual Reality (VR) Playroom in the Philippines, specifically designed for tourism and hospitality training, on October 14, 2024. This innovative project transforms the way students prepare for real-world industry demands, providing an immersive, hands-on learning experience.
In partnership with Ediphi, a global leader in VR and AI-powered educational solutions, CITHM’s VR Playroom offers cutting-edge career training and international virtual internships. Ediphi harnesses immersive technologies to create pathways to leadership, allowing students to access advanced training wherever they live and learn. By integrating VR modules that simulate real-world hospitality environments, the playroom prepares students for both local and international career opportunities.
The VR Playroom offers several key benefits that prepare students for the hospitality industry. It provides cultural exposure through immersive simulations, helping students understand local customs and etiquette for international internships. Language training allows students to practice fluency and communication with native speakers. Through operational skills simulations, students can practice front desk operations, housekeeping, and food service in realistic settings. The Playroom also hones problem-solving skills, teaching students to handle guest complaints, emergencies, and conflicts. Additionally, it ensures readiness in safety and security protocols, from fire drills to managing theft and harassment.
Impact on International Hospitality Internships
International internships play a crucial role in shaping future professionals in tourism and hospitality. However, these experiences come with challenges, such as adapting to different cultural norms, overcoming language barriers, and handling operational differences in various countries. CITHM’s VR Playroom directly addresses these challenges, preparing students for the realities of international work environments through immersive simulations. By practicing these scenarios, students can enter internships with increased confidence and readiness, maximizing their learning and performance abroad.
The VR Playroom also allows for scalable, standardized training, which ensures that all students receive consistent, high-quality preparation regardless of their geographic location or class size. With the ability to update content in real-time, the Playroom remains aligned with industry trends and new developments, giving students a competitive edge.
A New Era in Hospitality Education
The launch of CITHM’s VR Playroom marks the beginning of a new era in tourism and hospitality education in the Philippines. By integrating virtual reality and AI-driven learning, CITHM is setting a new standard for how Lyceans are trained and prepared for the global workforce. The program’s adaptability to different learning needs, cultures, and languages makes it a unique and transformative tool in hospitality training.
With this latest VR Playroom, CITHM and Ediphi enhances the learning experience and creates opportunities for Lyceans to excel on a global scale. This innovation is a testament to CITHM’s commitment to fostering leadership, practical skills, and career readiness in the ever-evolving hospitality industry.
This immersive VR environment will enable participants to practice complex or sensitive tasks, ensuring a standardized training experience with immediate feedback. Moreover, the scalable nature of VR technology will allow CITHM to accommodate any number of participants, making it a valuable tool in preparing future hospitality professionals for the challenges of the global industry.
