Convergence of Boundaries in Tourism, Hospitality, Events, and Leisure: Defining the Core and Knowledge Structure

Keywords

discipline building; experience; hospitality; leisure and recreation; place

Abstract

This study aims to address the convergence of boundaries in Tourism, Hospitality, Events, and Leisure (THEL) fields. We offer a synthesized definition of THEL and discuss a set of meta-concepts that define the core and knowledge structure of THEL. We argue that hospitality, experience, and place are unifying constructs upon which all THEL scholarship activities and practice fields are established. The paper invites a system-wide conversation to stimulate thinking regarding academic discipline building at a time when technological and societal forces are transforming work, life, and education. This research contributes to modernization of THEL and engenders new perspectives to guide future scholarship. This paper invites a reassessment of curricular structures to stay relevant and adaptive to changing needs of contemporary societies.

Publication Date

3-2024

Original Citation

Lehto XY, Kirillova K, Wang D, Fu X. Convergence of Boundaries in Tourism, Hospitality, Events, and Leisure: Defining the Core and Knowledge Structure. Journal of Hospitality & Tourism Research. 2024;48(3):407-419. https://doi.org/10.1177/10963480221108667

Document Type

Paper

Source Title

Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Research

Volume

48

Issue

3

College

Rosen College of Hospitality Management

Location

Rosen College of Hospitality Management

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