Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2026 - GEOG 327 D100

Geography of Tourism (4)

Class Number: 1618

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 11 – Jun 19, 2026: Mon, Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Instructor:

    Alice Lee
    hiuyanl@sfu.ca
    Office Hours: Mondays, 9:00-9:30am, 12:20-12:50pm

  • Prerequisites:

    At least 45 units, including GEOG 100 or REM 100.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Factors underlying the changing geography of tourism. Issues of demand, supply and impact are examined.

COURSE DETAILS:

COURSE DETAILS:

This course provides an introduction to the geography of tourism, examining the environmental, social, cultural, and economic dimensions of the global tourism industry. Drawing on key theories and case studies, it equips students with the analytical tools to understand tourism development, practices, and challenges.

Delivered in a summer intersession format, the course emphasizes experiential and activity-based learning. Core concepts introduced in lectures are reinforced through local case studies, site visits, and structured field exercises. Replacing traditional tutorials, these activities involve guided observation, spatial analysis, and applied tasks that connect theory to real-world contexts.

The intensive format promotes active participation, critical reflection, and the integration of theory with practice, enabling students to engage directly with tourism landscapes and contemporary issues.

Grading

  • • Class Participation and Engagement 20%
  • • Documentary Analysis and Reflective Response 10%
  • • Tourism Mapping and Interviews 10%
  • • Field Observation and Analytical Report 15%
  • • Environmental and Sustainability Assessment 15%
  • • Cultural and Ecotourism Field Analysis 15%
  • • Sustainable Tourism Development Proposal 15%

NOTES:

Notes: There will not be a final examination

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

This courses requires students to read a mixture of journal articles, textbook chapters and other learning resources. All readings and other class materials are available online through Canvas.  


REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.