In a world where professional development often feels like a checkbox activity, weaving fun into learning experiences might seem like a luxury. But science says otherwise. Fun isn’t a distraction—it’s a catalyst for better engagement, deeper understanding, and longer retention. The key is knowing the difference between forced amusement and authentic, purposeful enjoyment.
According to the Association for Talent Development (ATD), learners are more likely to remember content that they engage with emotionally. When learners are enjoying themselves, their dopamine levels increase, which helps encode memories more effectively and enhances cognitive flexibility, both crucial to problem-solving and critical thinking.
Malcolm Knowles’ principles of adult learning emphasize self-direction, relevancy, and practical application. Adults want learning that feels meaningful. When fun is used as a tool to create realistic, relevant, and collaborative scenarios, it adds value instead of distraction.
As Dr. Patti Shank, a learning design expert, notes:
“Fun is only useful when it helps learners achieve outcomes. Otherwise, it's noise.”
“Let’s do an icebreaker” is often met with groans—and for good reason. Poorly designed fun feels juvenile, irrelevant, or time-wasting. Forced fun disconnects participants from purpose and wastes precious attention. Adults are especially sensitive to activities that feel manipulative or meaningless.
To quote feedback from learners in the Destination LEXpert and Poconos programs:
“It was informative and helpful.”
“A fun trivia section would make it even more interactive!” - Students Testimonials
That’s the difference: true fun enhances value; fake fun drains it.
Playful elements—like friendly competition, storytelling, or gamified challenges—tap into intrinsic motivation and help learners feel connected. In organizational settings, this builds psychological safety and improves learning cultures. According to research published in Harvard Business Review, employees in psychologically safe environments are more open to learning and change.
When Learn Tourism’s ambassador courses include storytelling, humor, or scenario-based gamification, learners report increased confidence and enjoyment:
“It was a great balance of being informative yet concise.”
“I wouldn’t change a thing!” - Students Testimonials
Use simulations, storytelling, or real-world case studies that resonate with learners’ lives and jobs. Roleplay how a visitor might react to poor service or explore behind-the-scenes tour planning.
Incorporate points, badges, trivia, or timed challenges only when they reinforce the material—not just as fluff. Let learners "level up" through mastery, not randomness.
A good joke, a light tone, or an unexpected anecdote builds trust. Humor works best when it's authentic and tied to the content—like a story about the worst tourist question ever received.
Break serious topics into digestible segments, with small moments of levity or surprise at transitions. A visual pop quiz, a “myth buster” moment, or even a “guess what happened next?” challenge can lighten the cognitive load.
Learning doesn't always happen solo. Give learners opportunities to share ideas, collaborate on mini-projects, or solve puzzles together. Even in asynchronous environments, community boards, peer shout-outs, or funny GIF replies can encourage engagement.
At Learn Tourism, the nonprofit academy, programs like Destination LEXpert and the Poconos Ambassador Program demonstrate how fun, relevant, and thoughtful instructional design come together. Learners don’t just complete courses—they leave inspired, confident, and ready to apply what they learned:
“This course helped me feel more confident... I would love to see a fun trivia section added to make it even more interactive.”
And it’s not just the learners. DMOs, hoteliers, and tourism leaders agree that learning infused with real fun works:
“[Learn Tourism] knows how to bring stakeholders into alignment... and do it all sustainably.” – Linsey MacDougall
Fun isn’t a garnish; it’s an ingredient. When used strategically, it can transform how people learn, retain, and apply knowledge. The future of tourism training isn’t just smart—it’s joyful.
Stephen Ekstrom is the embodiment of a passionate lifelong learner and a seasoned professional in the tourism industry, serving as the CEO and co-founder of Learn Tourism - the nonprofit academy. With over 25 years of experience, he has cultivated a deep understanding of tourism development and education, driven by his commitment to advancing the industry and fostering sustainable economies. Stephen's insatiable curiosity and love for knowledge have led him to be a proud nerd, constantly seeking to expand his expertise and share his insights with others. Alongside his faithful furry companions, Rudy and Marjorie, he embraces the digital nomad lifestyle, traversing the globe and immersing himself in diverse cultures. A dedicated advocate for continuous improvement, Stephen is a professional member of the Association for Talent Development and a member of Skal International. Stephen holds prestigious certifications in Inclusive and Ethical Leadership from USF, AI Governance and Ethics from Brown University, and Sustainable Business Strategy from Harvard Business School.
Learn Tourism is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the tourism industry through innovative educational practices and professional development initiatives. Our mission is to harness the power of science, business psychology, and adult education to build sustainable economies and enrich the tourism landscape.