SFB51109 Professional Communication II (Spring 2011)

The course is connected to the following study programs

• Obligatory in the degree programme International Communication (2^nd semester).
• Specialisation course in the degree programme Business Administration (specialisation: International Communication) (6^th semester).

Prerequisites

Knowledge corresponding to the course Business Communication I (10 ECTS credits) is recommended.

Lecture Semester

Spring 2011

The student's learning outcomes after completing the course

Through the oral part of the course the students will have gained sound knowledge of negotiation theory and terminology, as well as skills in negotiating effectively. Vocabulary and communication skills will have been improved through reading, discussion and presentations.

Through the written part the students will have gained theoretical knowledge and practical skills in writing advanced business texts. Their general English language proficiency will be improved.

Content

The oral part of the course comprises negotiation technique and strategy, literature reading and discussions. Case studies are used as well as negotiation practice.

The written part comprises business texts such as reports, e-mails, memos, CVs and job applications. The learning focuses on using effective communication strategies as well as relevant structures, conventions and terminology.

Forms of teaching and learning

Lectures and seminars using English.

Coursework requirements - conditions for taking the exam

•         One practical negotiation
•        Two written assignments submitted by given deadlines
•         Mandatory library instruction
•         80% attendance in the oral part of the course. For exemption to be granted from this requirement, a written application must be  submitted stating the reasons for failure of attendance. 

All coursework must be approved before a student may take the final exam.

Examination

Individual term paper (12-15 pages) and oral examination (approx. 30 minutes)

The oral examination may adjust the written result by two steps on the A-F grading scale. Both the term paper and the oral test must be passed. No aids are permitted at the oral exam.

In the case of a failed result of the term paper the student may improve on the paper and resubmit it. If a student wishes to improve her/his result, both components must be retaken.

 

Literature

• Locker, K & S Kaczmarek (2007). Business Communication: Building Critical Skills. 3^rd ed. New York: McGraw-Hill
• Fisher, R, W Ury & B Patton (1997). Getting to Yes. Negotiating an Agreement without Giving In. London: Arrow
• One novel (title given at the beginning of the semester)
• Compendium
• Course material published on the learning platform Fronter