1.1 Critically evaluate the different approaches that can be taken to tourism policy.
International Tourism Policy and Development
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Unit Reference Number |
R/616/2695 |
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Unit Title |
International Tourism Policy and Development |
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Unit Level |
7 |
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Number of Credits |
20 |
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Total Qualification Time (TQT) |
200 Hours |
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Guided Learning Hours (GLH) |
100 Hours |
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Mandatory / Optional |
Mandatory |
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Unit Grading Structure |
Pass / Fail |
Unit Aims
The aim of this unit is to develop learners’ critical understanding of the principles of tourism policy and how these relate to issues of development. Learners will evaluate theories of international development and apply these to a tourism context. Learners will also apply development indicators and create proposals for tourism projects to address development problems.
Learning Outcomes and Assessment Criteria
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Learning Outcome - The learner will: |
Assessment Criterion - The learner can: |
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1. |
Be able to critically analyse the concepts and theories of public policy for tourism. |
1.1 |
Critically evaluate the different approaches that can be taken to tourism policy. |
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1.2 |
Summarise the evolution of tourism policy. |
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1.3 |
Explain the multi-scalar nature of contemporary tourism policy and its relationship with institutions involved in tourism development at the global, national and local scale. |
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2. |
Be able to critically evaluate theories of international development. |
2.1 |
Critically appraise theoretical approaches to international development. |
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2.2 |
Critically evaluate the status of developing countries using theories of international development. |
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3. |
Be able to critically analyse the key relationships that impact on sustainable international tourism development. |
3.1 |
Critically evaluate the impact of tourism in destinations. |
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3.2 |
Critically analyse the key relationships that impact on sustainable international tourism development. |
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3.3 |
Critically evaluate how tourism can be used to meet international development goals. |
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4. |
Be able to develop plans for tourism projects to address international development problems. |
4.1 |
Research development issues in an international context. |
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4.2 |
Develop a project plan to address development issues in an international context. |
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Assessment
To achieve a ‘pass’ for this unit, learners must provide evidence to demonstrate that they have fulfilled all the learning outcomes and meet the standards specified by all assessment criteria.
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Learning Outcomes to be met |
Assessment Criteria to be covered |
Assessment type |
Word count (approx. length) |
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All 1 to 4 |
All ACs under LO 1 to 4 |
Coursework |
4500 words |
Indicative contents
- Theories of the state and approaches to policy
- Government involvement in tourism
- Multi-scalar approaches to tourism policy
- The policy-making process
- Stakeholders in tourism policy
- Tourism policy interest groups
- Tourism policy instruments
- Tourism policy implementation and evaluation
- Tourism policy and sustainable development
- Theories of development (including modernisation, dependency, neo-liberalism, alternative, post-development)
- The role of and relationship between tourism and development
- Role and influence of actors involved in tourism for development
- The relationship between tourism and other development arenas
- Issues in developing tourism in the emerging economies
- Tourism policy and development in the European Union
- Responsible tourism
Indicative Reading list
Core Text:
Dredge, D. and Jenkins, J. (2007) Tourism Planning and Policy. Milton Qld: Wiley
Additional reading:
Burns, P. and Novelli, M. (2006) Tourism and Politics: Global Frameworks and Local Realities. Oxford: Butterworth Heinemann
Edgell, D. and Swanson, J. (2013) Tourism Policy and Planning: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow. Abingdon: Routledge
Hall, C.M. (2008) Tourism Planning. Policies, Processes and Relationships. Second Edition. Harlow: Pearson, Prentice Hall
Kennell, J. and Chaperon, S. (2015) Tourism and Public Policy. Abingdon: Routledge
Journals
- Annals of Tourism Research
- Current Issues in Tourism
- International Journal of Tourism Research
- Journal of Policy Research in Tourism, Leisure and Events
- Journal of Sustainable Tourism
- Managing Leisure: an international journal
- Tourism Recreation Research
- World Development
Example Answer - Plagiarised
1.1 Critically evaluate the different approaches that can be taken to tourism policy.
To critically evaluate the different approaches to tourism policy, it is essential to explore the varying strategies adopted by governments, international organisations, and local authorities. These approaches can range from market-driven to state-controlled policies, each influenced by the socio-economic, environmental, and political contexts within which they are developed. Below is a critical evaluation of key tourism policy approaches, focusing on sustainable tourism, economic impact, cultural preservation, and the role of government intervention.
1. State-Led Tourism Policy
State-led tourism policy often reflects a top-down approach, where governments or national authorities actively control and shape tourism development. This model typically involves significant investment in infrastructure, tourism promotion, and regulatory frameworks. The state’s role in this context is to create policies that foster the growth of the tourism sector, regulate standards, and ensure that tourism benefits the economy.
For example, in countries like China or the UAE, where tourism is a critical part of national economic strategy, governments set policies that directly influence tourist flow, such as through visa regulations, international marketing campaigns, and large-scale investments in tourism infrastructure (airports, hotels, attractions). While this approach can generate significant economic growth, it also risks prioritising economic outcomes over environmental sustainability and local community needs.
Critical Evaluation:
A state-led approach often ensures the alignment of tourism policy with broader national development goals, but it can sometimes lead to an overemphasis on economic growth at the expense of social and environmental considerations. Additionally, the lack of local participation in decision-making can lead to policies that do not fully reflect the needs or desires of local communities.
2. Market-Driven Tourism Policy
In contrast to state-led approaches, market-driven tourism policy leans towards a free-market economy, where the forces of supply and demand largely dictate tourism development. This approach is often adopted in capitalist economies, where private sector involvement is encouraged and the role of government is more about facilitation than regulation. Market-driven policies aim to create an environment where businesses can thrive, fostering competition and innovation within the tourism sector.
For example, in destinations such as the United States or the United Kingdom, tourism policies are often shaped by private sector needs, with limited government intervention. The emphasis is placed on marketing, attracting international visitors, and fostering partnerships between private businesses, such as airlines, hotels, and tour operators. While this approach can lead to dynamic growth and innovation, it may also result in issues such as overtourism, rising accommodation prices, and the exploitation of local resources.
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