The sociological approach to tourism. Tourism and cultural identity. Development theories and models of tourism. The social impacts of tourism. Economic and environmental impacts of tourism. Tourism and society: future trends. Economic, political, and technological trends. The concept of globalization. The concept of the global tourism industry. Tourism as a driver of global economic development. Alternative and sustainable tourism development. Protection of culture. International tourism organizations. The globalization of tourism development and increasing competition. Development theories and models of tourism. Globalization, development, and trade. Policies, reforms, and economic strategy. Industrial structures, business strategies, and international examples.
Upon successful completion of the course, students are expected to have acquired and developed:
Knowledge enabling them to: (a) understand concepts such as multiculturalism, interculturality, acculturation, assimilation, integration, homogeneity, pluralism, stereotypes, discrimination, racism, etc.; (b) understand the relationship between culture and communication; (c) be familiar with fundamental theories of intercultural communication; (d) identify the factors influencing intercultural communication and compare the communicative behavior, both verbal and non-verbal, of different cultural groups, interpreting behavior through the lens of culture.
Skills enabling them to: (a) communicate effectively (both verbally and non-verbally) in an intercultural context; (b) understand the cultural differences of international visitors and foreign employees, thereby contributing to the more effective promotion and management of the tourism product.
Competences enabling them to: (a) operate and interact effectively in intercultural communication environments; (b) leverage cultural diversity as an opportunity and an ideal context for creative interaction; (c) demonstrate adaptability and responsibility as effective communicators across diverse cultural settings.
In the era of globalization and the rapid development of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), communication and interaction among cultures are essential for understanding and effectively managing cultural diversity in the contexts where the international tourism phenomenon evolves. Transactions and communication with people from different cultural backgrounds are intensifying due to the rapid development of communication technologies, transport systems, the globalized economy, and international mobility (migration and international tourism). Within this context, the role of Mass Media in shaping cultural change and identity formation is also examined.
Given that the “globalization of migration” is expected to play a critical role in the coming years, the course explores the cultural integration and mutual influence of both migrants and host societies.
This course introduces students to the concept of intercultural communication, enabling them to understand the role of effective communication in tourism, as well as the importance of cultural differences in human interaction both in the workplace and in the broader social environment (including differences in dress, diet, religion, values, and customs).
Analytical weekly breakdown of the course:
Week 1: Globalization and international tourism
Week 2: Challenges of living in a global community
Week 3: Culture and people
Week 4: Communication and culture
Week 5: Perception and categorization
Week 6: Cultural and value orientations
Week 7: Identities and subgroups
Week 8: Verbal and non-verbal communication and culture
Week 9: Migration and acculturation
Week 10: Intercultural and intergroup relations
Week 11: Management of intercultural conflicts
Week 12: Mass media and cultural change
Week 13: Effective intercultural communication in a global society
The lectures will conclude with a summary of the course content and the provision of guidance to students regarding the final examinations.
- Recommended Bibliography:
The course aims to develop:
Student assessment will be conducted through:
Written final examination (100% of the final grade), which may include:
The assessment criteria are communicated to students at the beginning of the course.
Assessment results are accessible to students for feedback regarding their improvement.
