GES3220

Ecotourism

Dr Sharron Pfueller, Dr Peter Cock, Professor Chris Cocklin, Associate Professor David Mercer and Associate Professor Jim Peterson

6 points - 3 hours per week (2 one-hour lectures, one-hour tutorial) - Second semester - Berwick - Prerequisites: None

Objectives On completion of this subject students will have an understanding of the sustainability of tourism in social, ecological and economic terms; a critical capacity to assess the environmental and social processes associated with tourism, an understanding of the different community, environmental and economic perspectives on ecotourism; the ability to evaluate ecotourism in Australian, cross-cultural and global contexts; an appreciation of links between ecotourism and development of a conserver society and skills in operationalising the principles and perspectives of ecotourism.

Synopsis Australia is rapidly becoming one of the world's major nature-based tourism destinations because of its relatively unpolluted environment, extensive national parks, and diverse naturescapes. Ecotourists seek travel opportunities for adventure and education. This subject critically examines the sustainability of tourism in social, environmental and economic terms and evaluates ecotourism in Australian, cross-cultural and global contexts. It explores the role of ecotourism in promoting an environmental ethic that forms the foundation for a sustainable future. It also provides students with the opportunity to plan and design tours based on the principles and perspectives of ecotourism.

Assessment Team project on the development of plans for an ecotourism venture (1000 words per person): 30% - Team oral presentation (20 minutes): 10% - Essay (2500 words): 35% - Examination (1 hour): 25%

Prescribed texts

Cock PH and Pfueller SL Australian ecotourism: Principles and practice (when available)
Recher HF, Lunney D and Dunn I A natural legacy Pergamon Press, 1986

Recommended texts

Blamey K The nature of ecotourism Bureau of Tourism Research, 1995
Croall J Preserve or destroy: Tourism and the environment Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, 1995
Stabler MJ Tourism and sustainability CAB International, 1997

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