Determinants of Scholar-Practitioner Gap in Kenyan Hospitality Industry

Abstract

: Hospitality scholars and practitioners have varied interests and viewpoints that influence their respective priorities. These priorities include continuing education, professional recognition, and networking opportunities. The study objective was to identify the determinants of scholars-practitioners gap in the Kenyan hospitality industry. The study employed mixed method approach. Convergent research design was used. Population of the study included hospitality scholars in Kenyan universities and head of departments in 4- and 5-star hotels. The sample comprised of 224 practitioners, 162 scholars and 8 Key Industry Informants. Questionnaires, interviews and Focus Group Discussions were used to collect data. Qualitative data was summarized in categories and themes using thematic analysis. Factor analysis method was used to determine determinants of scholar-practitioners gap. Further analysis will included multiple regression and inferential statistics. Findings revealed that there existed a scholar-practitioner gap in Kenyan hospitality industry caused by lack of scholar-practitioner platform to interact, lack of organizational support, career differences and lack of time to interact. The study revealed that hospitality scholar-practitioner gap in Kenya has denied the parties an opportunity to interact and enhance their competencies. Keywords: Determinants, scholar-practitioner gap, hospitality, Kenya