Study Guide

Objective

The student can function in English-language situations typically encountered within the field both in speaking and in writing. The student uses a varied range of language structures and communicates with clarity. S/he knows and can use essential field-related terminology and web-based dictionaries and proofreading aids. The student can realistically assess his/her English communication skills and needs for development, and can act accordingly.

Content

Spoken and written English as used by engineering students andengineers for professional purposes.

Materials

No textbooks. Videos, news, articles etc. are used. Study materials are brought in both by the teacher and the students. Terminology study is supported with Quizlet sets created by the teacher. The students find job ads and select relevant topics for pitching.

Teaching methods

Task-based studying supported by weekly contact sessions either in a classroom setting or online

Exam schedules

No exam and therefore also no re-exam.

International connections

All topics are related to the students' other ongoing studies (e.g. reports are written on experiments performed as part of the chemistry lab course) and to their field of study. Employment & application procedures are specifically dealt with, and the course material seeks to expand the students' familiarity with career options in the field.
Basic philosophy: language is both a form given to thoughts and a tool for building and maintaining relationships. During the English course, therefore, real issues are discussed while focusing both on what information content is conveyed and what social implications the interaction has. In other words, the aim is to behave in an effective and socially acceptable way in an English-language work environment.

Student workload

Each week, some face-to-face time in the classroom, some independent writing, and some discussion in small groups. Approximately 2 h of contact time, 4 h of group working without teacher presence, and 3 h of independent studying and writing.

Assessment criteria, approved/failed

Active attendance and accepted tasks are required.

Content scheduling

Weeks 44-49

Evaluation scale

Hyväksytty/Hylätty

Assessment methods and criteria

Task-based assessment, no exam. All tasks must be completed acceptably, and active attendance (min. 75 % during contact sessions) and contribution are expected. Peer evaluation is applied.
Final grade pass/fail.
A grade for English will be given after study unit English Professional Skills (2nd year).

Assessment criteria, fail (0)

Missing tasks or tasks not in compliance with instructions and lack of attendance (attendance less than 75%) may result in a failed course.