Percepções sobre a qualidade do curso técnico de guia de turismo do IFRN (2008-2012)

Abstract

Scientific research in tourism still presents gaps regarding studies on technical vocational education, particularly those focused on the training of professionals directly engaged in the tourism sector. In this context, this dissertation aimed to analyze the perceptions of teachers, graduates, and employers concerning the quality of the Technical Course in Tourist Guiding offered by the Federal Institute of Rio Grande do Norte (IFRN) between 2008 and 2012. The study sought to identify positive and negative aspects of the training provided, characterize the socioeconomic profile of the participants, and propose recommendations for course improvement.This is a descriptive-exploratory study with a qualitative and quantitative approach, developed through bibliographic, documentary, and field research. Data were collected through questionnaires applied to the different research subjects, and the analytical categories were constructed based on the theoretical framework adopted and on principles of the TEDQUAL certification system proposed by the World Tourism Organization. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis.The results indicate that the course is recognized for the quality of its theoretical training, the academic qualifications and commitment of the teaching staff, and the institutional structure of IFRN. However, weaknesses were identified regarding the limited availability of practical activities, insufficient integration with the labor market, and challenges related to foreign language proficiency, which are considered essential for professional insertion. Additionally, low graduate retention in the tourism sector was observed. It is concluded that, despite an overall positive evaluation, the course needs to strengthen the integration between training and the labor market to enhance its social and professional effectiveness.