Learning outcomes

After completing this study module, students will
- be able to discuss matters concerning themselves, their studies and their own field
- be able to interact with others for instance in group work situations, discussions, presentations and debates
- be aware of the cultural differences related to oral communication and know how to communicate in a manner appropriate to the situation
These skills will help students in their studies and later in following their own field and improving professional international communication.

Contents

The groups will discuss annually changing themes with the help of conversation and listening exercises, aiming to develop their facilities to discuss current events. There will be some reading and writing exercises, and students will hold an oral presentation.
Topic descriptions:
a) Local and Global Issues
Students prepare an academic presentation on a topic of their own choosing related to local and global issues, prepare for and actively participate in peer group discussions and debates, and learn how to recognise the cultural differences in oral communication and understand different ways to use English.
b) Current Events and Academic Challenges
The course concentrates on current discussions, debates and politics concerning gender, race and globalisation. A large part of the course is made up of student presentations related to the course theme. Students will become aware of the conventions of conversation, learn how to debate and defend their opinions, write short summaries of comprehensive topics, discuss general social topics and survive interviews.
c) Social Issues and Popular Culture
By studying and analysing different genres (e.g. films, plays, poetry, music and stories), this course aims to pay particular attention to the social phenomena conveyed through these cultural pieces of work. The essential part of this course is formed by student presentations on popular culture, and by related assignments and activities. Students prepare a report on an academic article related to the course theme and present it, retrieve information from different sources and hold presentations of them, keep a learning journal and actively participate in feedback discussions.

Further information on prerequisites and recommendations

For students of Social Sciences

Teaching methods

Teaching method	Contact	Online
Tutorials	42 h	0 h
Independent work	38 h	0 h

Teaching language

English

Evaluation and evaluation criteria

Numeric 1-5.
Evaluation by regular and active participation in exercises, completed assignments, oral presentation, continuous assessment and/or final exam.

Recommended year of study

Third year of studies.

Study materials

The material distributed during the course must be paid for.

Belongs to following study modules