Educational Tourism for Sustainable Tourism Development

This study examines educational tourism in relation to sustainable tourism development through a customer-oriented lens and the theoretical framework of experiential learning. Moving beyond viewing students as learners, this research considers them as consumers of educational tourism products. Using a qualitative methodology, the study draws on document analysis of post-trip reports and focus group interviews with tourism students from multiple universities across Vietnam. The analysis reveals that educational tourism fosters awareness of sustainable tourism practices, including environmental responsibility, cultural sensitivity, and community engagement. Students’ narratives highlight the importance of meaningful interaction with local communities, cultural integrity, and the role of tourism providers in shaping sustainable experiences. The findings underscore the potential of educational tourism to function as both a transformative learning experience and a strategic tool for promoting sustainability in tourism destinations. This research contributes to the growing body of literature on educational tourism by integrating consumer behavior and experiential learning perspectives, providing practical implications for educators, tour operators, and policymakers seeking to align tourism education with sustainable development goals.