Leader: Dr Farzad Sharifian

Offered

Clayton First semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

The increasing use of English in international professional contexts, partly due to the increased globalization of trade, has resulted in complexities that merit a close and scholarly attention. Issues such as cultural differences in negotiation style and management as well as expectations of professional meetings have had an impact on how English is used and interpreted by professionals in international contexts. This unit provides an opportunity for students to explore these issues in the light of intercultural communication in English-based professional contexts.

Objectives

Upon the successful completion of this unit students will be able to demonstrate:

1. advanced knowledge of the issues that surround the use of English as a lingua franca in international professional contexts,
2. advanced knowledge and understanding of methods of data analysis relevant to patterns of communication,
3. advanced knowledge of the relationship between general cultural values and communicative performance in specific contexts,
4. a critical understanding of the role of English in supra-national processes such as globalization.

Assessment

Critical, analytical essay (4000 words) : 35%
Research essay (4000 words) : 35%
Oral presentation and a written report (1000 words (equivalent)) : 20%
Seminar participation : 10%

Contact hours

1 x 2 hour seminar per week.