A qualitative study on foreign language education of tourism guidance students: The case of Batman University

This study aims to understand and evaluate the expectations and satisfaction levels of Batman University Tourism Guidance Department students regarding foreign language education. It also examines the main factors that affect the language learning process, and presents suggestions for the prominent challenges faced during foreign language education. A literature review was first conducted on education, foreign language education, related challenges, expectation, satisfaction, and previous studies. The research used a qualitative method, relying on semi-structured interviews. Data were collected through purposive sampling. Twenty-six participants were selected from among the 81 junior and senior students out of a total of 128 registered during the 2024-2025 academic year at Batman University's Tour Guidance Department. Of these participants, 16 took part in face-to-face interviews. Eight were interviewed via Google Meet, and the perspectives of the remaining two were gathered through Google Forms. Responses were coded using content analysis. Participants' answers were processed through computer software (MAXQDA) to identify themes. The findings section analyzes these themes, focusing on the most common problems during the language learning process, as well as learners' expectations and satisfaction levels. The results highlight primary challenges in foreign learning. They also provide potential solutions, and help clarify students' expectations, and satisfaction levels. The study found that students mainly expect to develop fluent speaking skills, access opportunities for speaking practice, and receive an effective language training process for the Tourism Guidance profession. However, participants reported that limited language practice, fear of making mistakes, a lack of motivation limit their ability to achieve their goals. The study aims to provide recommendations for higher education institutions, teachers, language learners, and researchers to improve the foreign language learning process.