Impacto de las giras académicas en la formación integral del estudiante de turismo en la unviersidad estatal de milagro (unemi)

This article analyzes the impact of academic field trips as an experiential learning strategy within the Tourism program at the Universidad Estatal de Milagro (UNEMI), addressing both face-to-face and online modalities. The aim of the study was to assess how these experiences contribute to the comprehensive development of university students through the strengthening of technical, attitudinal, and territorial appropriation competencies. The research adopted a qualitative approach with a descriptive and interpretative design, using document analysis, semi-structured interviews, and non-participant observation as data collection techniques. The main findings show that academic field trips help articulate theory and practice, strengthen professional identity, and promote a critical reading of the environment. Furthermore, their integration into the online modality marks significant progress in educational equity. The study concludes that these practices represent a key pedagogical tool in higher tourism education, with great potential for replication in other institutions.