Validation of the integrated progressive internship model syntax in tourism polytechnic

In the era of globalization, the gap between university graduates' competencies and industry requirements remains a significant challenge. Internship programs often fail to optimally bridge the gap between academic theories and workplace practices. This study aims to validate the development of an integrated progressive internship model designed to enhance the quality of industrial internship programs for students. The model was developed based on the Four D’s framework (Define, Design, Develop, Disseminate), with key syntax elements including Coaching Clinic, Input, Process, Evaluation, and Dissemination. Validation was conducted involving 8 experts through Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and data analysis using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) based on Structural Equation Modeling. The findings reveal that the model demonstrates high validity and reliability, with R-Square values ranging from 0.938 to 0.939. It can be concluded that this internship model holds significant potential for implementation in reducing the gap between theory and practice while enhancing students’ preparedness to meet the demands of the workforce.