Professional ethics in tourism

Tazhen Aidana Nursultankyzy – Master’s degree holder, senior lecturer, 1. Characteristics of the MOOC 1.1 The aim of studying this course is to form a comprehensive and systematic understanding of professional ethics in tourism as a practical framework guiding decision making, behavior, and responsibility within tourism and hospitality activities. The course is designed to develop students’ knowledge of ethical principles, moral values, professional standards, and regulatory norms governing interactions with tourists, employees, local communities, destinations, and digital platforms. It equips learners with the ability to identify ethical risks in tourism practice, analyze real world ethical dilemmas, evaluate the social, cultural, environmental, and economic consequences of tourism activity, and apply responsible, transparent, and human centered approaches in professional tourism operations and management. 1.2 Objectives of study:  understand ethical principles and codes of conduct in the tourism industry to guide professional behavior and decision-making.  develop cultural sensitivity and responsibility in interactions with local communities, environments, and global stakeholders.  apply ethical frameworks to real-world tourism challenges such as sustainability, human rights, labor issues, and digital practices. 2. Learning Outcomes: upon successful completion of the course, students acquire comprehensive knowledge of professional ethics in tourism, including moral principles of tourism practice, codes of conduct and ethical guidelines, cultural sensitivity and respect for local communities, sustainability and environmental responsibility, corporate social responsibility, ethical marketing and advertising, human rights protection, fair employment and labor rights, digital ethics in online tourism platforms, and ethical challenges of mass tourism and crisis situations. 3. Prerequisites. To successfully complete this MOOC, learners must possess the knowledge, skills, and competencies acquired through the study of the school program. 4. Postrequisites. The knowledge, skills, and competencies acquired through the study of this MOOC are required for the successful completion of the following courses: The theory of hospitality, Hotel Service. 5. Number of academic credits / MOOC duration – 4 credits 6. Course difficulty level: intermediate