Wooded Trail

Ecotourism

Course Descriptions:

Introduction to Ecotourism (20 hours)
Introduction to ecotoursim definition, practices, and principles. Exploration of the types of ecotourism businesses, both nonprofit and for-profit. Discussion of responsible travel and minimizing impact plus the economic and quality of life benefits to a community. Case studies to be explored.

Natural and Cultural Resources (30 hours)
This course provides practical field experience through lectures, field visits, case studies, and guest lecturers for an appreciation of the practicalities of ecotourism from the perspectives of operators, guides, land managers, marketing and promotion agencies, and conservation and community interests.

Nature-based Law (20 hours)
This course provides current information on nature-based law. Other topics include principles and ethics. The information below includes information to be covered in the course through case studies.

Interpretation and Guiding (30 hours)
Introduction to interpretation. Exploration of the types of interpreters and their roles and responsibilities--managers, planners, trainers, heritage interpreter, guide. Discussion of the significance of making the connection between the emotional and intellectual connections between the interests of the traveler and the meanings in the resource.

Safety (30 hours)
This course will identify basic safety situations involving outdoor experience in a period of one or two days. CPR is an additional course.

The Business of Ecotourism (30 hours)
Explore the possible target markets for ecotourists. Understand the nature-based traveler's profile. Explore the variety of ecotourism businesses and how they function, their roles, their successes. Understand the challenges and benefits of ecotourism businesses. Students will develop a business plan for an ecotourism venture.