Study Guide

Learning outcomes

The student is able to
- prepare and deliver business presentations in English
- become aware of different techniques used in presentations
- understand the role cultural aspects play in presentations

Implementation and methods of teaching

Contact lessons and workshops. Independent study. Preparing and giving speeches and professional presentations in English. Discussions in English. No substitute work or assignments.

Timing and attendance

Attendance in the first lesson is compulsory, no excuses. Attendance is compulsory in all presentations, no excuses and no substitute work or assignments. Attendance in lessons and workshops highly recommended.

Learning material and recommended literature

Materials available on the online learning platform. Possible course readings:
1) Stand up, Speak out: The Practice and Ethics of Public Speaking
2) https://hbr.org/2018/04/3-tips-for-presenting-in-english-when-youre-not-a-native-speaker
3) http://www.publicspeakingproject.org/psvirtualtext.html (selected chapters)

Alternative completion methods

No substitute work or assignments. All compulsory presentations, speeches, and discussions required.

Exam retakes

A retake option discussed at the end of the course if needed (e.g. a portfolio of presentations/other talks recorded on video + a final presentation given in another course in the spring semester).

Learning environment

Contact lessons and workshops on campus. Course materials, lecture notes, assignments, and instructions available on the online learning platform.

Student time use and work load

Individual and group presentations, speeches, and discussions that require preparation. Students must check the course dates and reserve time for preparing and practicing presentations, speeches, and discussions.
Approximate student workload: 135 hrs
-Contact lessons and workshops: 24-28 hrs
-Course readings: 40-50 hrs
-Homework and preparation: 50-60 hrs

Contents

The course provides basic presentation and public speaking skills in English. The main objective is to learn how to prepare and give professional presentations and other talks in English. Preparing and giving speeches and professional presentations in English. Leading and facilitating discussions and participating in discussions. Managing and overcoming public speaking anxiety. Giving peer feedback.

Additional information for students: previous knowledge etc.

No prior experience in giving presentations or speeches in English required.
Prerequisites: English for Work 3 ECTS. Intermediate to upper-intermediate level skills in spoken English (e.g. CEFR B1/B2, IELTS 6-6.5).

Assessment criteria

Assessment is based on course assignments, peer feedback, and self-assessment. Final course grades are based on active attendance and performance during presentations, speeches, and discussions. No substitute work or assignments.

Assessment scale

1-5

Failed (0)

Missed several lessons and presentations. Inability to deliver a basic coherent presentation. The student has not met the course requirements.

Assessment criteria: assessment scale failed/approved

The student is able to diversely apply the practiced techniques, models, and processes to give effective business presentations and speeches in English.

Assessment criteria: level 1 (assessment scale 1–5)

Active attendance at most lessons. All assessed presentations given. Ability to give basic and coherent presentations in English. Ability to create basic slides. Some interaction with the audience.

Assessment criteria: level 3 (assessment scale 1–5)

Active attendance at most lessons. All assessed presentations given. Ability to give professional and coherent presentations in English. Ability to create good slides. A good understanding of the various purposes behind presentations (inform, instruct, persuade etc.). Good body language and interaction with the audience.

Assessment criteria: level 5 (assessment scale 1–5)

Attendance at most lessons. All assessed presentations given. Ability to give professional and coherent presentations in English. A very good understanding of the various purposes behind presentations (inform, instruct, persuade etc.). Ability to give presentations appropriate to the target audience. Ability to create quality slides to support presentations. Excellent body language and great interaction with the audience.