Opportunities for Integrating Ecological Education in Tourism Vocational Programs
Opportunities for Integrating Ecological Education in Tourism Vocational Programs
Vardanyan Meri
Summary
Key words: higher education, ecological awareness, interdisciplinary approach, extracurricular learning, skills
This article explores the integration of ecological education into higher education programs in tourism, emphasizing its role in developing the knowledge, skills, and ecological awareness of future professionals. The study highlights the growing need for such integration due to increasing environmental challenges and the demand for sustainable development in the tourism industry. It examines key methodological approaches, including interdisciplinary strategies, interactive learning, and extracurricular activities, which foster both professional and ecological competencies among students. Brusov State University is presented as a successful example of implementing ecological education within tourism programs. The student survey assessed the effectiveness of these approaches, demonstrating positive outcomes in knowledge application, environmental awareness, and professional skill development.The article concludes with recommendations to enhance ecological education in tourism vocational programs: introducing specialized modules or courses, applying an interdisciplinary teaching approach, and combining traditional and interactive instructional methods. These measures aim to prepare competent, environmentally conscious specialists, capable of contributing effectively to sustainable tourism development.