The envisioned online community of the Erasmus+ FEELIT project is now alive, extending a warm invitation to the Deaf community and the travel agents, acknowledging the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in tourism. In the ever-evolving landscape of online connectivity, the emergence of virtual communities of practice (VCoPs) stands as a testament to the power of collective learning and collaboration. This article explores the development and potential impact of an innovative community tailored for the tourism sector, with a focus on accessibility and inclusivity.
In today’s interconnected world, the exchange of knowledge and expertise transcends geographical boundaries. Within the realm of professional development, virtual communities of practice have emerged as invaluable resources for collective learning and knowledge exchange.
That’s why within the FEELIT project has been created an online community aiming to bring together tourists, travel agents, professionals, educational institutions, and service providers within the tourism sector. Notably, this initiative extends its invitation to the Deaf community, recognizing the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in online platforms.
Central to the success of the community is its user-friendly interface and comprehensive set of features designed to facilitate meaningful interaction and collaboration. Key functionalities include:
- Members’ Profiling and Registration: Users can create personalized profiles to showcase their expertise and interests within the tourism domain.
- Different Roles of Users: The platform accommodates various user roles, such as editors, creators, and moderators, ensuring efficient management and governance.
- Calendar/Notification Services: Regular updates on events, announcements, to keep members informed and engaged.
- Asynchronous Collaboration and Discussion Services: Instant messaging, forums, and file sharing enable dynamic discussions and knowledge sharing.
The establishment of this online community of practice holds significant potential for both deaf community and organizations within the tourism industry. Participants can actively engage in dialogue, seek advice, and receive feedback from peers, thereby enhancing their knowledge and skills. Importantly, even passive observers can benefit from the wealth of resources and insights shared within the community.
Click on the following link to be part of the FEELIT online community and of the revolution in the tourism inclusivity.
One thing not to forget, if you haven’t already done so, is to follow the project’s Facebook page and visit its website!
