Study Guide

Learning outcomes

The student is able to:
- deliver effective presentations and speeches in academic and general situations
- interact smoothly and take an active part in discussions and conversations
- understand the significance of nonverbal communication
- speak with improved pronunciation and a richer vocabulary

Teaching methods

The study unit contains work on the following themes:
• orientation and self-assessment of communication skills
• persuasive communication strategies and techniques in presentations, discussions, pitches, interviews and debates
• language needed while mingling in an intercultural context
• teamwork and organisational communication

Location and time

Leppävaara campus, daytime, weekly contact sessions

Learning materials and recommended literature

Learning materials in Optima

Alternative completion methods of implementation

n/a

Forms of internationality

Development of intercultural competences is integrated into the study unit.
Suitable for exchange students.

Students workload

5 ECTS = 135 hours of work
approx. 30 hours in class
105 hours of independent study

Further information for students

Prerequisite:
The student needs to have completed the mandatory English language study unit, Professional Communication in English or equivalent, prior to taking this study unit.

Grading scale

H-5

Evaluation methods and criteria

The study unit is assessed on a point-basis. The student is awarded points on attendance and five different spoken assignments. Grade calculation is as follows:
Attendance:
12 sessions x 2pts/session
Points are given when you are present in class.
In the case of documented illness, you will receive points.
24pts max
Assignments
76pts max
Assignment #1: Old Bag Speech (12pts max)
Assignment #2 Current events (12pts max)
Assignment #3 Persuasive speech (14pts max)
Assignment #4 Debate (18pts max)
Assignment #5 Job interview (18pts max)
100pts max
Grade calculation:
Points correspond to percentage of effort and involvement based on 100% maximum.
100-91pts = Grade 5
90-81pts = Grade 4
80-71pts = Grade 3
70-61pts = Grade 2
60-51pts = Grade 1
50pts < = Failed

Evaluation criteria, approved/failed

A grade of 0-5 is given.

Evaluation criteria, fail (0)

The student is unable to demonstrate a satisfactory understanding of key principles of effective spoken business communication. He/she does not give evidence of sufficient ability to achieve straightforward communication objectives in the work-related situations practised on the study unit. Language skills in general may be below the required level for a satisfactory production of everyday business messages.

Evaluation criteria, satisfactory (1-2)

The student demonstrates some understanding of key principles of effective spoken business communication. He/she is able to achieve straightforward communication objectives in common work-related situations and can vary his/her communication style according to the situation. Spoken and written language skills are at an intermediate or upper-intermediate level (approximately B2 according to the Common European Framework). Speech is mostly fluent and language range is sufficient to cope with everyday work-related situations.

Evaluation criteria, good (3-4)

The student demonstrates a fair understanding of key principles of effective spoken business communication. He/she is able to achieve communication objectives in common work-related situations with a degree of success and can adapt his/her communication style according to audience and context. Spoken and written language skills in English are at an upper-intermediate or advanced level (B2-C1 according to the Common European Framework). Speech is often fluent, with a relatively high degree of grammatical control and evidence of a good range of vocabulary

Evaluation criteria, excellent (5)

The student demonstrates a very good understanding of key principles of effective spoken business communication. He/she is able to communicate clearly, concisely and appropriately in common work-related situations, and is effective in adapting both the style and content of a message to different audiences and in different contexts. Spoken and written language skills in English are at an advanced level (at least C1 according to the Common European Framework). Speech is very fluent, flexible and easy to understand, with evidence of a wide active vocabulary.