Dr. Sunny Vinnakota - Associate dean & expert in digital marketing, hospitality & tourism management

 

Dr. Sunny Vinnakota, Associate Dean (Education), Academies Australasia Polytechnic

 

Dr. Sunny Vinnakota is an illustrious figure in academia with an enviable two-decade tenure. Dr. Sunny Vinnakota has donned multiple hats during this tenure - from an inspiring lecturer to a pivotal academic leader known for his infectious dynamism and forward-thinking approaches to pedagogy. He has consistently emerged as a beacon of transformative education, advocating for a rigorous and challenging curriculum designed to arm students with the knowledge, confidence, tools, and skills that are stepping stones to a successful future. Dr Sunny Vinnakota has been a steadfast pillar in a constantly evolving educational landscape, demonstrating the importance of adaptability, resilience, and a student-centric approach. Over the past twenty years, his journey has offered a masterclass in diversification, merging traditional pedagogy with the ever-changing demands of the digital age.

One cannot fail to acknowledge the extensive academic foundation supporting Dr. Sunny Vinnakota's endeavours. With a Ph.D. in Digital Marketing and management and a diverse palette of master's degrees ranging from Business Management, Digital Marketing, Digital Education, Hospitality and Tourism to Psychology, his breadth of knowledge is truly impressive. His commitment to academic excellence is further underscored by his Graduate Diplomas in Tertiary Education (Quality Assurance) and Learning.

However, Dr. Sunny Vinnakota is not just an academician but also a practitioner. As a Certified Practising Marketer (CPM) and a Certified Project Management Practitioner under PRINCE2®, he effortlessly bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and its practical application.

Currently leading the helm as the Associate Dean (Education) at Academies Australasia Polytechnic,  628 Bourke Street, Melbourne 3000, Australia. Dr. Sunny Vinnakota continues to foster an environment of growth, innovation, and continuous improvement. His ethics, integrity, and leadership skills remain a testament to his commitment to shaping the next generation of thinkers, innovators, and leaders.

 

Academies Australasia Polytechnic (AAPoly)

The Academies Australasia brand is now also well regarded internationally. It represents aunique education group with a wide range of operations, many years of experience and high standards. A group established in Australia that does Australia proud.

Established in 1908; Academies Australasia Group Limited has been operating for 115 years. It has a long and successful experience in education.

Listed on ASX in 1977: It was listed on the Australian Securities Exchange more than 46 years ago. Public listed status means that, apart from having to meet the well regarded and carefully supervised standards of the education sector, Academies Australasia colleges must comply with the strict financial and reporting regulations of the ASX.

Academies Australasia Polytechnic (‘AAPoly’) offers several Bachelor degrees (see ‘Courses) and a Master's Degree in Information Technology. Master's

 

At AAPoly, we currently offer seven Higher Education programmes:

1. Bachelor of Tourism and Hospitality (BTHM)
2. Bachelor of Business: Leadership and Management (BBLM)
3. Bachelor of Business: Digital Marketing (BBDM)
4. Bachelor of Business: Cyber Security (BBCS)
5. Bachelor of Business: Analytics (BBA)
6. Bachelor of Information Technology (BIT)
7. Master of Information Technology (MIT)

 

Dr. Sunny Vinnakota, digital marketing specialist

Throughout my extensive journey in academia and leadership roles, I have always been fascinated by the intersection of technology, human behaviour, and business. My diverse background, spanning from psychology marketing to business management, Hospitality and Tourism, constantly highlighted the evolving ways people connect, communicate, and make choices. When the digital revolution started transforming these interactions, I realised we were on the brink of a new era of communication and decision-making.

Digital marketing stood out to me as the epitome of this evolution. It was not just about promoting a product or a service; it was about understanding consumers' digital footprints, preferences, and behaviours and creating tailored experiences for them. The dynamism and the ability to measure, analyse, and optimise campaigns in real-time presented an intellectually stimulating challenge with the potential for groundbreaking outcomes.

My passion for teaching and mentoring also drove me to dive deep into digital marketing. I recognised its immense potential as a tool for businesses and as a crucial subject for the next generation of marketers, managers, and entrepreneurs. Imparting knowledge about the digital landscape, its nuances, and its impact became a mission for me, and what better way to do that than by specialising in it?

Furthermore, the continuous evolution of digital marketing ensures that one remains a lifelong learner. The rapid advancements in technology, algorithms, and platforms keep me on my toes, eager to explore, adapt, and innovate.

In essence, digital marketing presented an opportunity to be at the forefront of a digital transformation reshaping the world. It allowed me to combine my love for marketing, psychology, business, Hospitality, Tourism and technology in an impactful and future-centric way."

 

Dr Sunny Vinnkota’s Teaching Style: Bridging traditional teaching with modern pedagogical innovation

In the realm of education, where pedagogical methods constantly evolve, Dr. Sunny Vinnakota stands out as a beacon of adaptability and innovation. His teaching journey, transitioning from old school techniques to leveraging cutting-edge digital tools, is inspirational.

At the heart of Dr. Sunny Vinnakota's initial teaching approach lay the classic principles of education - an emphasis on foundational understanding, interaction-based learning, and a dedicated commitment to each student's intellectual growth. The beauty of his old-school methodology was its simplicity and effectiveness; with chalk and blackboard, rigorous problem-solving sessions, and face-to-face discussions, he ensured that every student not only memorised but truly grasped complex concepts.

However, as the digital revolution began reshaping the educational landscape, Dr. Sunny Vinnakota didn't merely adapt - he thrived. Recognising the potential of emerging educational technologies, he began integrating various digital tools into his curriculum. This was not a hasty addition but a calculated evolution, ensuring that technology complemented, rather than replaced, the foundational strengths of his teaching style.

Dr. Vinnakota's classroom became a seamless fusion of tradition and technology. He created a dynamic and engaging learning environment by leveraging platforms like interactive e-learning modules, virtual simulations, and collaborative online workspaces. These tools did more than modernise his teaching approach; they personalised it. Students could now learn at their own pace, revisit complex topics through digital resources, and collaborate with peers in ways that transcend geographical boundaries.

What truly sets Dr. Sunny Vinnakota apart, however, is his discerning use of these digital tools. Instead of being overwhelmed by the plethora of options, he handpicked those that aligned best with his teaching philosophy and his students' specific needs. By blending old-school wisdom with the efficiencies of modern educational technologies, he cultivated a learning environment rooted in time-tested methods and attuned to the demands of the 21st century.

In summary, Dr. Sunny Vinnakota’s pedagogical evolution from traditional methodologies to embracing modern digital tools is emblematic of the ideal teaching journey in this digital age. He exemplifies the balance educators must strike in harnessing the power of technology while preserving the essence of traditional teaching. His vision and adaptability give students a holistic, contemporary, and profoundly enriching educational experience.

 

Dr. Sunny Vinnakota publications

1. Leveraging Artificial Intelligence in the Hospitality Industry: Opportunities and Challenges

The hospitality industry has significantly evolved due to the integration of artificial intelligence (A.I.) technologies. This research examines A.I.'s role in hospitality, highlighting its opportunities and challenges for professionals. Focusing on A.I. applications like chatbots, virtual assistants, and facial recognition, the study evaluates their influence on guest experiences, operational efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. The paper also addresses ethical concerns and potential pitfalls of A.I.'s extensive use, providing recommendations for its effective incorporation and sustained industry growth.

2. Quality Assurance Challenges for Higher Education Private Providers, Post COVID-19 Pandemic: The development of a HYBRID Quality Assurance ModelQuality Assurance Challenges for Higher Education Private Providers, Post COVID-19 Pandemic: The development of a HYBRID Quality Assurance Model

This research paper examines quality assurance practices of private higher education providers in Australia, particularly post-COVID-19. It explores the Q.A. culture's impact on institutional performance, addressing challenges faced during the pandemic. The study seeks to pinpoint modifications in the Q.A. model essential for performance enhancement after the 2020 COVID-19 challenges. Furthermore, it contemplates potential higher education models for future risk reduction and challenge mitigation.

3. Impact of Digital Marketing on Organizational Performance: Study retail sector in Australia

The research examines digital marketing's effect on organisational performance. Utilising a sample of 200 employees surveyed online, the study reveals that retailers benefit from digital marketing strategies such as email, social media, and mobile apps. These methods allow businesses to maintain close customer relationships and gain a competitive edge, positively influencing their overall performance.

4. Impact of Digital Marketing on Hospitality Business Performance

The service sector significantly impacts a country's GDP. This research explores the influence of digital marketing on hospitality business performance in Australia. The study surveyed 200 hospitality employees using a Likert scale questionnaire and found that digital marketing positively affects the sector. It enhances marketing activities, increases customer visits, builds a favourable business image, and boosts sales.

5. Role of Electronic Word of Mouth In Purchase Intentions of Consumers in the Hospitality Industry of Australia

Marketing is evolving, with eWOM becoming a prominent concept. This research examines eWOM's influence on consumer purchase intentions within Australia's hospitality sector. Using a questionnaire, 300 consumers were surveyed in this quantitative study. Data analysis through SPSS revealed that eWOM significantly impacts consumers' hotel preferences and their purchase decisions, confirming a strong association between eWOM and purchase intentions.

6. Venturing into Virtuality: Exploring the Evolution, Technological Underpinnings, and Forward Pathways of Virtual Tourism

"Venturing into Virtuality" explores the burgeoning domain of virtual tourism, tracing its evolution, present implications, and future potential. Initially a promotional tool, virtual tourism has transformed into a standalone industry, owing to technological advancements and global circumstances restricting physical travel. Central to this growth are technologies like Virtual Reality (V.R.) and Augmented Reality (A.R.), offering immersive and enhanced experiences, respectively. As the sector gears towards amalgamating physical and virtual travel, leveraging technologies like haptic feedback, its potential in democratising experiences ensuring sustainability and economic opportunities is evident. Yet, it is vital to maintain physical travel's authenticity amidst virtual advancements.

7. Digital Dimensions: The Seven Key Affordances of E-learning

E-learning in the digital age goes beyond online content, leveraging seven pivotal digital dimensions to transform education: Interactivity promotes active learner engagement; Ubiquity ensures anytime, anywhere learning; Scalability democratizes education, reaching vast audiences efficiently; Adaptability enables personalized learning via data analytics; Immersivity immerses learners in context-rich environments; Collaborativity emphasizes co-constructing knowledge in a community; and Assessment and Feedback utilize technology for real-time insights to enhance learning outcomes. Collectively, these dimensions highlight the transformative potential of e-learning, reshaping educational paradigms in innovative ways.

8. Importance of Pesters Power for Marketers:  An investigation of evolving concept in marketing importance of pesters power for marketers- An investigation of evolving concept in marketing

Advertising increasingly targets young children, leading parents to spend more due to the "nag factor," where children persistently request advertised items. Originating with promotions for sweets and toys, this tactic now encompasses a wide array of products, including adult items like cars. Consequently, "Pester Power marketing" has emerged, describing children's relentless urging of parents to purchase advertised goods. This influence means children play a vital role in their parents' buying decisions. As such, marketing firms intensively advertise to children, aiming to harness this influence to boost sales.

9. Exploring the Role of IoT Sensors: Enhancing Awareness and Cognition of Everyday Objects within the Hospitality Industry

The study explores the transformative potential of IoT sensors in the hospitality sector, emphasising enhanced object awareness and cognition. Using a mixed-methods approach with literature reviews, case studies, and interviews, the findings reveal that IoT sensors elevate guest experiences through environmentally conscious and adaptive decision-making, resulting in personalised services and better operational efficiency. Continuous data collection offers valuable guest insights, optimising services and individualised marketing. However, challenges like data privacy concerns and potential tech dependency exist. While IoT sensors signify a hospitality evolution, their implementation should balance benefits and potential pitfalls.

10. Tourism as a Percentage of GDP: Qualitative Study of Australia and Thailand Tourism as a Percentage of GDP

The tourism industry plays a vital role in the economies of Thailand and Australia, with cities like Melbourne, Sydney, Pattaya, and Bangkok being major attractions. Data from the WTTC highlights the industry's growing contribution to both countries' GDPs. On the aspect of sustainable tourism, its relationship with the host nation's environment is crucial. An in-depth qualitative research investigation into tourism's sustainability role reveals that tourism has both positive and negative impacts on the environment, affecting economic, health, and social factors. Adopting an inductive approach, the study underscores the importance of understanding these influences for sustainable tourism practices.

11. Analysing Cross-Cultural Issues Affecting HRM Practices

Globalisation allows diverse cultures to work together, leading to organisational cross-cultural challenges. This research, focused on Australian organisations, investigated how such issues impact HRM practices. Surveying 200 HR employees and using a deductive approach with SPSS analysis found that discrimination, cultural diversity, and communication are key factors influencing HRM practices. These findings suggest that organisations should tailor their H.R. strategies and policies to address these cultural challenges.

 

Professional memberships

• Academy of Management (Academic Membership)
• American Management Association (Full Membership)
• Australian Management Institute (Academic Membership)
• Australian Marketing Institute (Full Membership)
• Certified Practising Marketer (CPM),
• Certified Project Management Practitioner (PRINCE2®),
• Editorial Board Member, International Journal of Hospitality Administration and Management (IJHAM)
• International Association for Safety, Quality, and Environmental Management
• Member of Golden Key International Honour Society (Ongoing)
• Member of the Asian Management Association (Ongoing)
• The Council for Australasian Tourism and Hospitality Education (CAUTHE- Academic Membership)

Contact details

Dr Sunny Vinnakota,

www.aapoly.edu.au, CRICOS Provider No. 02439G | RTO Code 21282,

Mobile: 0401199121, Direct: +61 3 86104141,

Work email: s.vinnakota@aapoly.edu.au

Personal email: sunny183@gmail.com

Level 8, 628 Bourke Street, Melbourne 3000 Australia.

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7546-8263

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunny-vinnakota-330b59199