Importance of Online Learning Competencies of Students in the Hotel Workplace: Perception of Selected Hotel Professionals in the Province of Quezon

The hospitality industry is one of the world's fastest growing industries. It employs over millions of people globally and provides a variety of job opportunities at all levels. The COVID-19 pandemics have caused substantial challenges to the hospitality industry. Hotels are experiencing cancellations and a lack of customers, resulting in employment losses. In addition, COVID-19 also has an impact on students' learning methods. Practical exams, which are required for the students' future professions, are unable to be performed. As a result, the primary aim of this study was to determine the perceptions of the hotel professionals on the importance of online learning competencies of students in the hotel workplace. This study employed descriptive research using a quantitative approach with a survey questionnaire as the main tool in gathering data. The sampling method used in this study for selecting respondents was purposive sampling. The study's findings show that hotel industry practitioners perceive that the online learning competencies of students in the hotel workplace are all important in terms of communication skills, problem solving skills, and critical thinking. It also influences the hotel workplace in terms of learnings, skills, and behavior. To conclude, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused damage to the hotel industry. It has an impact on the learning environment of students. In general, this study produces a training guide that will help in improving online students' capabilities so that they are adequately prepared in the practice of their professions.