Please note! Course description is confirmed for two academic years, which means that in general, e.g. Learning outcomes, assessment methods and key content stays unchanged. However, via course syllabus, it is possible to specify or change the course execution in each realization of the course, such as how the contact sessions are organized, assessment methods weighted or materials used.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon completion of this course, the students will be able to
- Recognise the strategies and elements that enhance clarity and audience-friendliness in both oral and written communication
- Apply these strategies and elements in oral presentations and writing related to their field of study
- Distinguish between formal and informal styles of communication
Credits: 3
Schedule: 04.08.2021 - 08.09.2021
Teacher in charge (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022): Susan Gamache, Nanna Qvist, Riina Seppälä
Teacher in charge (applies in this implementation): Susan Gamache
Contact information for the course (valid 27.07.2021-21.12.2112):
susan.gamache@aalto.fi
CEFR level (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022):
B2
Language of instruction and studies (valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022):
English
CONTENT, ASSESSMENT AND WORKLOAD
Content
Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:
This course introduces written and oral communication principles and strategies that are applicable to professional and academic purposes. Students begin by writing on a topic from their own field of study. To enhance readability of the texts, students apply organisational patterns, such as problem-solution, and employ other writing principles that make comprehension of sentences and paragraphs easier. Based on their written work, students deliver an oral presentation which is videoed for self- and teacher-evaluation. As part of the learning process, students analyse presentations to identify their strengths and areas for improvement, and practise organising and presenting information clearly to a non-expert audience. Throughout this course, students work individually, in pairs and in small groups to develop their presentation and writing skills. In addition, students give and receive constructive feedback on their work and revise it accordingly.
Working Life Skills:
Knowledge of research in own field, Skills in foreign languages, Information retrieval skills, Ethical consciousness, Written & Oral communication, Self-awareness, Critical thinking skills, Analytical, Lifelong learning skills, and Self-confidence
Assessment Methods and Criteria
Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:
- Preparatory assignments (o + w) 40%
- Written assignments (final report included) 40%
- Final presentation 20% (Videoed)
Note: 80% attendance required
Workload
Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:
81 hr (Small group instruction 24 - 36 h + independent work 45 - 57 h)
Applies in this implementation:
Note that this is an intensive course over 6 weeks with a total of 81 hours of work.
DETAILS
Study Material
Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:
Provided by the teacher
Substitutes for Courses
Valid 01.08.2020-31.07.2022:
LC-1110 + LC-1112; LC-1110 + LC-1111 + LC-1120; LC-1113; LC-1115; LC-1117