Course description
1. Code
SFBE50706
2. Name & ECTS credits
Business Communication II, 10 ECTS
3. Category
The course is obligatory in the bachelor’s degree programme International Communication, optional in other degree programmes.
4. Prerequisites
SFBE50606 Business Communication I or equivalent qualifications.
5. Semester
Spring, 2nd semester.
6. Objectives
The aim of the oral part of the course is to give students good knowledge of negotiation theory and terminology as well as skills in negotiating effectively. Vocabulary and communication skills are also enhanced through reading, discussing and presenting.
The written part of the course aims to give theoretical insight and practical skills in writing more advanced business texts. Emphasis is placed on relevant terminology as well as on further developing students’ general skills in English.
7. Contents
The oral part comprises negotiation strategies and technique, literature reading and discussions. Skills are trained through various exercises and case studies. The written part includes business texts such as reports, e-mail, memos, CVs and cover letters for applications. There is considerable focus on using apt communication strategies as well as relevant structures, conventions and terminology.
8. Organisation and teaching
The course is given as lectures and seminars, and is taught in English.
9. Work placement/internship
None.
10. Mandatory assignments
Two written assignments to be submitted within given deadlines.
11. Final assessment
A term paper of approx. 12-15 pages, and an oral examination of approx. 20 minutes. The oral result may adjust the final grade by one step up or down. Assessment is given on the A-F scale.
12. Required reading
- Kaczmarek, S & K Locker (2004). Business Communication: Building Critical Skills. New York: McGraw-Hill.
- Fisher, R, W Ury & B Patton (1997). Getting to Yes. Negotiating an Agreement without Giving In. London: Arrow.
- Rodgers, D (1995). Business Communications: International Case Studies in English. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
- Grisham, J (1993). The Firm. London: Arrow.
Lecturers: Henrik Bøhn (henrik.bohn@hiof.no) and Berit Løken (berit.loken@hiof.no)