The course aims at developing the Dutch communication skills of the student in order to enable him/her to function in the relevant social and professional contexts.
Reading Comprehension:
- To be able to read articles and reports concerned with contemporary and field related problems in which the writers adopt particular attitudes or viewpoints.
- To be able to understand standard field-related correspondence.
Level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
Listening Comprehension
Individual:
- To be able to understand extended speech and lectures and follow even complex lines of argument provided the topic is reasonably familiar (field-related).
- To be able to understand most TV news and current affairs programs provided the topic is reasonably familiar (field-related).
Interactive :
- To be able to understand most conversations and debates bearing on field-related subjects.
- To be able to understand most of what is said in an everyday conversation provided standard language is being used.
Level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
Speaking Skills (main objective)
Individual :
- To be able to present clear, detailed descriptions on a wide range of subjects related to your field of interest.
- To be able to explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.
Interactive :
- To be able to take an active part in discussion in familiar contexts, accounting for and sustaining your views.
- To be able to interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes possible regular interaction with native speakers, as well on general as field-related topics
Level B2- of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
Writing Skills:
- To be able to write a short report, summary or formal letter in order to pass on factual information.
Level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
Code
Vocabulary : consolidation of basic vocabulary (+/- 2000 words) and assimilation of specific vocabulary (+/- 500 words)
Grammar: consolidation of the command of the basic structures of the Dutch language.
The use of vocabulary and grammar is seen from a communicative viewpoint. Nevertheless, accuracy is not neglected.
Culture:
In the development of all the above-mentioned skills the course will aim at making the students aware of Dutch and Flemish cultural aspects.
Main themes
The course is structured around field-related and socio-professional subjects
Content and teaching methods
The course focuses on interactive communication within the professional framework. The proposed activities therefore aim at developing communication skills in that area, as well as improving mastery of the language. These activities, which simulate real-life situations, are of two types:
1) presentation and activation of language functions related to the professional life (everyday socializing, telephoning, contributing to / organizing and conducting a meeting, taking part in a jobinterview / a negociation, writing formal letters, a memorandum, an e-mail, , ).
2) Individual and interactive speaking activities related to the field of study. This part includes a presentation on a topic related to the field of study and a 30- minute-debate.
These activities require a certain amount of preparation on the part of the student, who has to improve his or her linguistic knowledge autonomously. The teacher will advise him/her in that matter and the self-study Center of the Institute is at his/her disposal.
Other information (prerequisite, evaluation (assessment methods), course materials recommended readings, ...)
Prerequisites:
The course being of upper-intermediate level, the productive command of basic grammar and vocabulary as well as the command of the language skills of the B2 level as described in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, is required for the receptive skills and the B1 level is required for the productive skills.
Assessment
- Continuous assessment which takes into account the student's work and participation, his /her oral presentation and tests.
- Oral exam based on the presentations by colleague students. The students must also be able to speak about the news and an activity they have chosen to do outside their course hours, like reading a Dutch book, seeing a Dutch film, meeting a well-known Dutch-speaking person,
Course material
Course notes : Interactieve Communicatie
+ Reading Portfolio with specific vocabulary lists.
Training staff
Classes in groups of 12 to 15 students.
The teacher is available during his office hours and can be contacted by e-mail.
For self-study, guidance is also provided at the self-study Center.