Business Communication

SKL4100

Title	Business Communication
Code	SKL4100
School	RBS
Module Level	4
Module Code	SKL4100
Available Summer	N
Semester	1
Credits	6
ECTS Credits	3
Contact Hours	48
Course Length (wks)	12
Course Leader	Samantha Lai
Lecturers	TBA
Course Aims	The module aims to: Develop effective communications skills in English; Provide students with a framework for determining the appropriate use of English in both business and academic contexts; Encourage them to use the skills acquired in the module to assure and enhance the quality of their learning experiences in other modules.
Course Content	English reading, writing and oral communications skills. Techniques for engaging effectively with others. Capabilities for personal reflection and development. Engagement in independent learning.
Learning Outcomes	On completion of this module, students should be able to: LO1 Understand and follow lectures and class discussions in English. LO2 Participate actively in class and group discussions, seminars and workshops. LO3 Express themselves clearly in written and spoken English. LO4 Demonstrate effective reading skills. LO5 Know how to construct a CV and to write reports and essays effectively. LO6 Understand the use and value of communicating effectively in a wide variety of business and managerial contexts. LO7 Demonstrate an awareness and tolerance of the views expressed by those from different cultures. LO8 Understand the important roles that each individual must play in furthering her/his own personal development. LO9 Be able to participate effectively in group and team discussions, seminars and workshops.
Presentation	Classes will be small. Learning will be facilitated through a mixture of lectures, discussions and task-based assignments. Students are expected to participate in all class and group discussions. Raising awareness of cross-cultural differences is a key element of the module. Considerable focus is placed upon establishing a firm grounding for engaging in independent learning. Students will be encouraged to rethink previous methods of study, become more analytical about themselves and assume more responsibility for their own learning.
Reading Recommended	BERKO, WOLVIN and WOLVIN (2004), Communicating-A social and careers focus. Houghton Mifflin CAMERON, S. (1999), The Business Student's Handbook. Pitman Publishing. SWEENY S (2004), Test Your Professional English - Marketing. Penguin. SWEENY S (2004), Professional English- Management. Penguin.
Reading Required	COTTREL, S. (2002), The Study Skills Handbook. Palgrave. REGENTS BUSINESS SCHOOL (2007-2008). Skills Development Handbook
Pre-Requisites	None
Asseseement Methods	CV and business letter - week 4 - 10% Oral presentation - Week 6 - 10% Essay - Week 8 - 40% Report - Week 10 - 15% Test -week 11 - 15% Attendance Punctuality and class participation - throughout course - 10%
Weekly Schedule	Writing skills. CVs, letters, essays, reports, referencing. Reading skills. Building vocabulary through the use of business articles, newspapers and dictionaries. Verbal skills. Techniques for effective presentations, negotiations and interviews. Listening skills. Note-taking, participation in debates on business-related topics. Communication skills. Examining theory and improving practice. Study skills. Examination techniques, time management, memory techniques, learning styles and approaches to critical thinking. Personal skills. Intercultural awareness, team building and personal development.