Northern Tourists, Northern Hosts: Performances and Experiences (10cr)

Objective

After completion of the course the student is able to
- describe the main characteristics of tourism in the circumpolar north
- compare tourism in the circumpolar north and in other regions
- apply theoretical concepts to describe tourist’s experiences
- apply relevant theoretical concepts to analyze tourist’s performances
- summarize central points and arguments in a theoretical literature and present it in writing
- assess and critically discuss tourism development in different regions in the circumpolar north in relation to different groups of tourists and modes of travel.

Content

This course addresses tourism in the circumpolar north with an emphasis on tourist’s experience and the connections between tourism, host communities and landscapes. Its objective is to introduce theories and research that relate to tourist performances and experiences in the North. Issues to be dealt with include tourist and host encounters, and cultural and environmental change and the role of northern landscapes in tourist experiences. Instruction is based on research grounded in different theoretical approaches and presenting diverse cases.

Materials

Materials delivered during the course.

Further information

This course is organized in collaboration with several universities and instructors under the University of the Arctic’s Thematic Network on Northern Tourism.

The course is run by the University of Iceland. The practicalities including study rights, grading etc. are implemented according to the principles of the University of Iceland.

Contact person at the University of Lapland: Professor Outi Rantala.