PRINCIPLES

The fundamental principles of the teaching are multidisciplinarity, multiform teaching methods, internationality, and the interaction of multidisciplinary research in tourism and the tourist industry.

Multidisciplinary Tourism Studies

Students have the opportunity to obtain thorough knowledge of the research in tourism studies carried out within various disciplines. The multidisciplinary approach is also affected on a personal level, as the teachers and students typically represent different disciplines. During the courses the concept of tourism is considered from the viewpoint of various disciplines, e.g. geography, history, cultural anthropology, physical education, economics, social sciences, and environmental sciences.

Multiform teaching

Multiform teaching means applying various teaching and working methods to the teaching provided by FUNTS. Teaching is given in modules of intensive periods and web courses. The intensive teaching periods enable interaction of teachers and students, fortify the multidisciplinarity of the teaching and provide connections with the business world. Web courses are provided through a learning environment built in connection with the FUNTS website. Teaching is developed as a part of the virtual university in collaboration with e.g. Open University and other university networks.

Internationality

Internationality is a central characteristic of the tourism industry. It is realised through the member universities’ student exchange programmes, by international visiting lecturers and by participating in international tourism research and study projects.

Cooperation with tourist industry

The FUNTS represents a new concept in education. During their studies the students gain firm experience in target-oriented, multiform cooperation. Interaction with the tourist industry includes practical training, case studies and projects. The students develop ideas about new products and about increasing the economic efficiency of operations for the use of the cooperating enterprises. Some of the intensive courses are arranged in tourist enterprises and destinations. The 'innovation training' included in these courses prepares the students for working life and gives experience in the tourist industry both at a domestic and international level.

April 2008