Oral business communication techniques in German 1

Teacher(s)

Reuter Hedwig;

Language

Deutsch

Prerequisites

B2 level of listening and reading, B2 level of speaking (Common European Framework of Reference)

Main themes

This course introduces the general principles of communication particularly the linguistic, sociolinguistic, pragmatic and cultural aspects of interaction. Special attention will be paid to specific characteristics of communication in the German-speaking world. This general introduction will be followed by a detailed presentation of techniques which should be implemented in communication activities specific to a company. These techniques will be analysed on the basis of conversation analysis: typology, conversation situations, conversation structure (macro- and micro-strucutres), phonology, 'Exercises accompanying the course will allow students to simulate active participation in a variety of situations. The students' simulations will be recorded and subsequently analysed in detail.

Learning outcomes

At the end of this learning unit, the student is able to :
1	At the end of the course, students should be able to master the general principles of communication in a German-speaking business environment and they should at least have reached a B2+ oral level (Common European Framework of Reference) in German.

Content

The following themes will be discussed:

• General introduction to communication within an organisation ;
• Internal communcation (media, functions) ;
• The conversation. Analysis

Teaching methods

Lectures and case studies.
Exercises on communication strategies and typical vocabulary. Role playing on different conversational types. Oral exercises. 

Evaluation methods

Theory: written exam
Exercises: continuous assessment.  50 % over the whole of  Q1 (8 tests described in the "syllabus"). 50 % at an oral test in week 14.

Other information

The exercise sessions (15 hours) are given by the Institut des Langues Vivantes (ILV).

Bibliography

Pawlowski, Klaus: "Konstruktiv Gespräche führen", 2005, Reinardt Verlag, München

Teaching materials

• Pawlowski, Klaus: "Konstruktiv Gespräche führen", 2005, Reinardt Verlag, München

Faculty or entity

ELAL