Technical and Business English

44B0727

Bachelor

English

5.0

winter and summer term

2 appointments per week

1 semester

This module is designed to develop students' proficiency in English within both technical and business contexts. Throughout the course, students will engage with a variety of topics related to technical fields such as food safety, genetically modified organisms (GMO), and public relations, while also strengthening their business communication skills. The course emphasizes practical language skills including writing press releases, delivering presentations, and negotiating settlements. Students will also work on enhancing their ability to read and comprehend academic texts, create professional reports, and engage in discussions with a focus on business and technical vocabulary, grammar, and communication strategies. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the necessary English skills to confidently navigate both technical and business environments, with an understanding of how to apply these skills in real-world scenarios.

This module focuses on developing students' proficiency in both technical and business English, with an emphasis on communication in professional contexts. The course content is designed to enhance language skills needed for technical communication, business English, and professional interaction. Key areas of study include:

1. Introduction to Technical and Business Language:
   Introduction to vocabulary in fields such as food safety, genetically modified organisms (GMO), and public relations
   Basic communication strategies within technical and business environments
2. Listening and Reading Comprehension:
   Exercises focused on listening and reading comprehension of specialized texts, including articles and reports on current topics (e.g., food safety, sustainability, GMOs)
   Development of skills to extract and interpret technical information from various sources
3. Presentations and Public Communication:
   Techniques for structuring and delivering professional presentations of technical and business information
   Creation and presentation of reports, briefings, and formal statements
   Role-playing exercises (e.g., press conferences) and writing press releases
   Negotiation Techniques and Contract Communication:
4. Language skills for negotiation and contract discussions
   Practical exercises in negotiating agreements and compromises in English
5. Business English:
   Practical exercises in written and spoken business communication
   Use of business and technical vocabulary for creating offers, contract documents, and professional emails
   Teamwork and collaboration in an international business context
6. Scientific Communication and Report Writing:
   Writing techniques for scientific and technical texts, such as reports and studies
   Summarizing and evaluating information from various sources
   Improving reading comprehension and writing style for academic and professional purposes
7. Teamwork and Collaboration:
   Promoting group work and collaboration to enhance communication skills within teams and with external partners
   Reflecting on team dynamics and the importance of effective communication for project success
8. Grammar and Expression:
   Strengthening grammar skills in areas such as verb tenses, passive constructions, and modal verbs
   Applying grammar in both written and spoken professional communication

The course content of this module is focused on the practical application of English in both technical and business contexts. The aim is to equip students with the necessary language skills to communicate effectively in international, interdisciplinary work environments.

The total workload for the module is 150 hours (see also "ECTS credit points and grading").

• Portfolio exam

• Regular participation

Ungraded: Regular participation of at least 75 % of the planned teaching units.

Portfolio examination consisting of:

1. Presentation; 8 minutes incl. a one-page summary as continuous text (max. 50 points)
2. Written work sample; a 200 - 300 word elaboration of a given communication (e-mail, product description, press release, business letter, etc.) (max. 25 points); duration up to 90 minutes.
3. e-exam, 1 hour (max. 25 points)

A functional English language level is expected and necessary to complete the module.

Students will develop the skills necessary for presenting quantitative data and technical information in clear and precise language. Emphasis will be placed on communicating complex numerical and statistical data within the context of technical and business reports, including the use of graphs, tables, and charts. Students will learn how to structure and format quantitative information to enhance understanding and ensure clarity for an international audience. They will be taught how to interpret raw data, identify key trends, and present findings in both written and oral forms, ensuring their reports meet professional standards.

The module encourages students to enhance their ability to convey specialized knowledge to broader audiences. Students will practice translating technical jargon and industry-specific terminology into language that is accessible to a wider group of stakeholders, including non-experts and international clients. The focus will be on creating diverse types of content such as technical reports, business correspondence, and presentations that are tailored to both professional and non-professional settings. Through case studies and group activities, students will explore how to modify their communication style based on the context and the needs of their audience.

Students will focus on deepening their understanding of complex technical and business concepts. They will be encouraged to critically analyze and evaluate technical documents, research articles, and case studies in both the technical and business contexts. The module will help students build strategies for synthesizing and integrating new information, applying theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. By the end of the module, students will be able to explain, discuss, and debate complex ideas and concepts clearly and effectively in English, demonstrating both understanding and critical thinking in their communications.

Students apply what they’ve learned to real-world situations. This will involve practicing how to transfer their theoretical knowledge to practical, professional settings, such as drafting contracts, preparing project documentation, and negotiating business deals. Students will engage in role-playing activities, collaborative group work, and case studies that simulate real construction or business environments, encouraging them to put their English language skills to use in professional contexts. The goal is to prepare students for effective communication in international business and technical fields, bridging their academic learning with practical experience.

Students will develop essential communication and collaboration skills for professional environments. By participating in group work and collaborative projects, they will practice negotiating, discussing, and presenting ideas in teams. The focus will be on improving interpersonal communication skills, including active listening, providing constructive feedback, and resolving conflicts. Students will also be trained on how to communicate effectively in international teams, fostering the ability to collaborate across cultures and disciplines. Written communication in the form of emails, project updates, and collaborative reports will be key components of this section.

The professional standards and ethical considerations that underpin effective scientific and technical communication are examined. Students will learn about the ethical responsibilities involved in reporting data, writing research papers, and preparing technical documents. They will explore topics such as transparency, accuracy, and the proper handling of confidential or sensitive information. Students will be trained in how to adhere to professional writing conventions, including citation practices and document formatting. The goal is to help students develop the skills to communicate their technical expertise with clarity and professionalism in a global, multidisciplinary context.

• Fine, Jonathan

• Fine, Jonathan