Microsoft Word 2007 ichrie conference Proceedings Final-Final 06-06-07. doc

 
2007 Annual International CHRIE Conference & Exposition 
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METHODOLOGY 
Sample 
The population of interest for the study was hospitality undergraduate students in the United States. A 
convenience cluster sampling method was employed for the group. The students were identified through faculty at 
four universities who offer undergraduate degrees in hospitality management. The sample was comprised of 266 
students. By gender, participants were 62.8 percent female and 37.2 percent male. In terms of age, 90.97 percent 
were traditional students (18 to 24) and 9 percent were non-traditional students (25+). The two largest groups in 
terms of classification were 127 students or 47.70 percent who reported being juniors and 104 students or 39.10 
percent who reported being seniors. By cultural backgrounds, 154 students or 57.89 percent reported being from a 
western cultural background and 112 students or 42.11 percent being from an eastern cultural background.
Instrument 
The measurement instrument was the Emotional Intelligence Test – 2nd Revision developed by Plumeus 
(Jerabek, 2001). The online instrument is comprised of 70 multiple-choice questions. The test takes approximately 
30 to 45 minutes to complete. The online instrument measures Overall EI along with theoretical Knowledge, a 
Behavioral aspect, Emotional Insight into Self, Goal Orientation and Motivation, Ability to Express Emotions, and 
Social Insight and Empathy. 
The Study 
The study sought to answer questions regarding the EI levels of the students. Results were compiled 
regarding their Overall Score, Level One Sub-scores, and Level Two Sub-scores. The study further analyzed 
whether significant differences existed in their EI scores based on cultural backgrounds. Table 1 details the socio-
demographic characteristics of the students by cultural group.