Institute of Geography of Altai State University modernizes educational programs related to tourism

Currently, tourism, both in Russia and around the world, is in a difficult situation due to the coronavirus pandemic. This crisis is driving the transformation of the industry. So, for example, at the federal level the status of Rostourism is increasing, state programs are being formed, there is grant support for infrastructure projects, and federal tour operators come to the regions. Experts say that for Altai Krai there is a shift in emphasis towards improving the quality of services provided, the duration of service programs, etc.

"Today the Institute of Geography of Altai State University is a leading scientific and educational center in the field of tourism, therefore we are constantly modernizing educational programs in order to prepare graduates who are in demand not only at present, but also in the near future”, noted Director of the Institute of Geography of Altai State University, a member of the commission on development of tourism of the Russian Geographical Society, Doctor of Geographical Sciences Alexander Dunets. “Our students are already doing topical modern projects related to the use of interactive maps in the tourism industry, with the creation of virtual tours, individual environmental programs. We plan to develop competencies related to PR, marketing, information technology in the field of tourism. In short, we are actively responding to the ongoing changes".

The Institute of Geography of Altai State University teaches students competencies that are relevant to the modern tourism sector, which contribute to improving the quality of service. In the future, the Institute's specialists plan to develop virtual tours and real tourist programs using augmented reality.

“The coronavirus pandemic has made certain adjustments to the educational programs of our Institute, in particular, related to information technology, the formation of individual programs for serving tourists. In addition, we form projects related to the development of the territories of the region, and our students participate in the creation, for example, of ecological trails. We believe that all these initiatives will help overcome the problems that are currently emerging in the field of tourism”, emphasized Head of the Institute of Geography of Altai State University. “Our students this year are working in travel companies, and at the already opened tourist bases, promoting this business through social networks, using information technology, etc. The plans include the use of augmented reality, which will not only make excursion routes more interesting, but also visually acquaint tourists with the cultural and historical component of our region, the fauna and flora of ancient times".

Alexander added that today information technologies play a leading role in promoting tourism products. These are mobile applications with audio guides, and mapping software with interactive maps, where audio applications, photos, videos, etc. are used. Thus, a tourist, before contacting a regional operator, will now be able to draw up his own vacation route himself.