Interpretation in ecotourism settings: investigating tour guides' perceptions of their role, responsibilities and training needs.

Abstract

Sixty-five ecotour guides attending training workshops in Queensland and Western Australia in 2000 were surveyed to ascertain perceptions of their role and responsibilities as well as the impact of the training materials upon their practice. Although literature points to the increasing complexity of the ecotour guide's role, the findings reveal that guides themselves regard the provision of information and awareness of one's audience as paramount. Relatively less importance is placed on using interpretive techniques, minimising environmental impacts and influencing visitor attitudes and behaviour. Evaluation of the workshop training materials used in this study confirmed their success in increasing awareness of these important aspects of guiding. Guides indicated that the video/workbook training package was effective in promoting self-evaluation and reflection on their approach to guiding and after a month 67% of the group reported having changed their practices.

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