Nature-Based Tourism and Natural Resource Management in FinlandLaajuus (5 cr)

Learning objectives

Upon completion of this module, the student is able to
-understand the concepts of the nature tourism and its elements,
-recognise the possibilities of nature as a pull factor for tourism in Finland
-understand the different profiles of various target groups (international perspective) and their nature relationship
-understand different nature-based sustainable business models
-develop and manage nature-based tourism in Finland

Contents

Nature tourism phenomenon and concept
-Finland’s nature for tourism business
-Different nature tourist profiles and target groups (international perspective)
-Development and management of natural environments: national parks, recreational areas, wilderness areas, urban nature, animal parks, tourism routes
-Sustainability in nature tourism
-Nature tourism research

Starting level and linkage with other courses

This course is part of the minor package of Nature and Wellness Experiences.

Implementation methods, demonstration and Work&Study

This course is blended (some sessions are on Zoom, some are in nature or in Haaga/Porvoo Campus). The course is based on learning by doing including various activities such as guest lectures, company visits, cases, projects, and study excursions to nature. Demonstration of competence as recognition of prior learning, contact competence councelling teacher Niina Moilanen. For more information see Haaga-Helia student pages Recognition of Learning: https://www.haaga-helia.fi/en/recognition-learning

Assessment criteria - grade 1

When the implementation type of the course is CONTACT, ONLINE or BLENDED it is required that the student is present during those teaching hours that are marked in the study schedule. If you are absent more than 25 %, your grade will be lowered by one. If you are absent more than 50 %, the course is failed.

The student’s participation in the activities of the module is rather passive and his/her contribution to the team work is inadequate . The student shows only moderate ability to analyse and develop nature-based tourism business. The student completes the assignments of the module with minimal input and does not show deep understanding of the topic.

Assessment criteria - grade 3

The student’s participation in the activities of the module is rather active and his/her contribution to the team work is considerable/valuable. The student shows moderate ability to analyse and develop nature-based tourism business. The student completes the assignments of the module with good results and understands well the concepts of the topic.

Assessment criteria - grade 5

The student’s participation in the activities of the module is very active and constructive. He/she acts as a team motivator with his/her actions and knowledge and the student’s contribution to the team work and completion of the assignments is crucial. He/she shows excellent skills to analyse and develop nature-based tourism. The student completes the assignments with excellent results showing deep understanding of the concepts of the topic and produces new ideas and thoughts.

Learning materials

The material is available on Moodle platform.