Ecotourism

Code: PAO11392L

6 ECTS

Duration: 15 weeks/156 hours

Scientific Area: Environment and Ecology Sciences

Teaching languages: Portuguese

Languages of tutoring support: Portuguese

Regime de Frequência: Presencial

Sustainable Development Goals

Educação de qualidade - Assegurar a educação inclusiva, e equitativa e de qualidade, e promover oportunidades de aprendizagem ao longo da vida para todos.

Learning Goals

The major goal is that the students learn how to use natural heritage, built heritage, genetic heritage, landscape heritage and immaterial heritage, as ecotouristic resources. Further, is also intended that the students know how to contribute to the touristic development of areas with height heritage value, while observing the principles of conservation.

Definitions and principles of ecotourism. Heritage values. Natural heritage - endemic, rare and threaten species; natural and semi natural habitats. Criteria for identifying wetlands of international, national, regional and local importance; criteria for identifying sites of international, national, regional and local importance in Iberian continental ecosystems. Man-made heritage - sociological meaning of archaeological and architectonical heritage; monumental and vernacular heritage; environment and manmade heritage. Genetic patrimony - Portuguese autochthonous breeds and their distribution. Immaterial heritage, its conservation and its safeguarding. Elements of territory attractiveness in outdoor activities related with tourism. Environmental impacts related to tourism activities in rural areas. The concept and determination of carrying capacity. Socio-economic characterization of ecotourism in the world and in Portugal.The Cultural Park as model of territory management.

Teaching Methods

Lectures using audiovisual presentations. Practical exercises. Exhibition of films showing well succeeded ecotourism activities and resorts. Discussions and debates. Individual sessions in order the help the students on the development of a written work. Two written tests, or a final examination, and the completion of a written work.