Competence Development During Lifelong Learning : The Case of Front-Line Employees in Lithuanian Tourism Sector

The concept of lifelong learning is relevant for business. It is well elaborated by researchers in various sectors, however tourism sector is not explored enough in this field. This paper focuses on lifelong learning and competence acquisition and development of front-line employees in tourism sector. The aim of the paper is to define how front-line employees in Lithuanian tourism sector develop competence during lifelong learning. The paper consists of literature analysis on lifelong learning and competence development, empirical research and presentation of findings along with conclusions. The purpose of empirical research is to picture the competencies of employees in Lithuanian tourism information centers (TIC) as well as the learning forms the competencies are acquired by. The qualitative survey, semi-structured interview of seven TIC directors has been conducted in 2009. The survey has identified a number of competencies of front-line employees in tourism sector. It has also disclosed how the competencies are acquired. The findings show that informal learning is considered to be more significant and occurring more often comparing with formal and non-formal learning in Lithuanian tourism sector. Practical implications are revealed by disclosing the competencies significant for front-line employees in tourism sector and the learning forms having the biggest impact in competencies acquisition and development. It enables front-line employees to choose the most effective learning methods and save time and costs. The paper is original in the way empirical research has been conducted. Qualitative research especially in tourism sector is still rare in Lithuania. Also the findings identify the most effective forms of learning of front-line employees in Lithuanian tourism sector