Nature and nature tourism are important pull factors of the tourism to Finland. This module is suitable for the students who are interested in developing further their skills to analyse and develop nature-based tourism.

Upon completion of this module, the student is able to
• demonstrate deeper understanding of different elements and possibilities of the nature tourism
• complete small development projects for nature tourism independently
• analyse and develop nature based tourism
• use various tools for developing sustainable nature- based tourism in a more professional way

• Nature tourism phenomenon and concept
• Finland’s nature for tourism business
• Different nature profiles and target groups
• Digitalisation of nature tourism
• Tools for development of nature tourism
• Nature tourism entrepreneurship
• Green care and nature wellbeing
• Food in nature and food from nature
• Sustainability in nature tourism

a) Learning with some contact teaching/coaching including assignments, project work, independent study and possible exams.

The module is carried out using inquiry learning. The module is working as a Nature Lab where the student chooses a developmental task that is related to the nature-based tourism and completes the task with the help of theory, visits and research. A teacher coach is assigned to each student (or pair of students) to guide and monitor the process.

Company visits, project with a commissioner, presentations

b) Learning by using the work-based learning method “Work&Study” according to a plan that shows how the learning goals of the course can be obtained through the student’s work or hobby. More information from responsible teachers or academic advisors.

c) Demonstration (of earlier skills and knowledge in the course content). More information from responsible teachers or academic advisors.

Assessment of one´s own learning is a compulsory part of each course.

Books / e-books / online articles on the content topics
Company web-sites
Industry related reports and statistics
Relevant media
Materials provided by lecturers
Materials produced by students as a course work

This module takes place during the second half of the autumn semester

The student has successfully completed the module Nature Tourism 1. The module is a part of the elective advanced studies in Porvoo Campus competence-based curriculum.

Grade 1
The methods and tools used in the development project are rather insufficient. The theoretical framework supports the objective of the development project to a limited extent. The objectives are met partially and the value of the results of the project are not very significant for the commissioner/field. The self-directed work of the student is problematic at times. The student presents his/her work at the final seminar.

Grade 3
The theoretical framework supports the objectives of the development project well. The methods and tools used are suitable to reach the objectives of the project. The objectives of the project are met rather well and the results are rather significant to the commissioner/field. The student is self-directed and goal-oriented. The student presents his/her work at the final seminar in an appropriate manner.

Grade 5
The theoretical framework supports the objectives of the development project in an excellent manner. The methods and tools used are extremely well suited to meet the objectives of the project. The objectives of the project are met very well and the results are highly significant to the commissioner/field. The student works in an active, self-directed and goal-oriented way. The student presents his/her work at the final seminar in a creative, effective and professional manner.