Applying Communication Technology: Introducing Email and Instant Messaging in the Hospitality Curriculum

Abstract

Research has documented the importance and multiple uses of email and instant messaging (IM) in today’s organizations. Although companies grapple with issues related to these technologies, researchers estimate that hospitality organizations are increasingly dependent on electronic communication for internal and external communication. The authors recommend a way for hospitality educators to prepare students for their future responsibilities. The knowledge and skills required to address individual and corporate-level challenges are presented in the form of a portable course unit that can be integrated into hospitality classes in a variety of disciplines.