Kosol Sriputtinibondh. Knowledge and attitudes on coral reefs : a case study of coral reef excursions in the east coast of Thailand. Master's Degree(Technology of Environmental Management ). Mahidol University. Mahidol University Library and Knowledge Center. : Mahidol University, 2009.
Knowledge and attitudes on coral reefs : a case study of coral reef excursions in the east coast of Thailand
Abstract:
This study aimed to investigate tour guide agencies and tourists knowledge,
understanding, and attitudes on coral reefs and eco-tourism, to study the tourism
activities towards on coral reefs in the East region of Thailand, and to determine
strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of the tourism activities in the East
coast of Thailand. The questionnaires were used for data collection of nineteen tour
guide agencies and two hundred and eighty-two tourists.
The results showed that most of the tour guide agencies had a mean score of
knowledge, understanding, and attitudes at a good level. The tourists were categorized
as having a moderate level of knowledge, while attitudes were at a good level. The
statistical analysis indicated a non-significant difference in tour guide agencies
knowledge, understanding, and attitudes among education and participation in coral
reef conservation. On the other hand, the results showed significant difference in
tourists knowledge and understanding among age, education levels, types of activity,
and participation in coral reef conservation (p<0.05). The results indicated significant
differences in tourists attitude participation in coral reef conservation and information
receiving (p<0.05).
The study showed there are not many documents and printed materials about
coral reefs for tourists. Moreover, the publication to promote awareness and attitudes
are not provided in all attraction places. For the community participation issue, it
declines in the urban community such as Pattaya, Chonburi. The results also revealed
that there have been unsuitable activities e.g. using anchor in the coral reef protected
areas.
This study indicated the importance of the development and concern of
activities and policies for enhancing knowledge, understanding, and promoting
awareness of tourists for the conservation and protection of marine resources