ML7083: The World & Language of Business (German)

School German
Department Code MLANG
Module Code ML7083
External Subject Code 100323
Number of Credits 15
Level L5
Language of Delivery English
Module Leader Ms Helga Eckart
Semester Autumn Semester
Academic Year 2022/3

Outline Description of Module

This module provides a practical introduction to the world of business in a German language country. It focuses on key organisations, company structures and the wider economy. It also offers valuable training in the preparation of business correspondence and CVs in the German language.

On completion of the module a student should be able to

Critically assess the organisation and workings of companies in German speaking countries

2. Apply linguistic competence and powers of analysis with which to deal competently with most communication in German and translations within the business organisation

3. Compare and contrast key aspects of the business world in the target language countries

4. Present written arguments, at the appropriate linguistic level, in a logical and coherent manner in relation to different aspects of the German business world 

How the module will be delivered

The module will be delivered through a range of interactive teaching sessions supplemented by online teaching and learning activities and materials – and may include, where relevant, asynchronous materials such as lecture recordings. Full details on the delivery mode of this module will be available on Learning Central at the start of the academic year – and may be, in part, determined by Welsh Government and Public Health Wales guidance.  

Lectures will provide the background knowledge of the business world in Germany. This material will feed into seminars where students will probe more deeply into lecture topics and practical communicative skills.

This can include any of the following:

Negotiating skills, problem solving and comprehension exercises, business correspondence, group presentations and job applications. You will develop considerably your knowledge of business vocabulary in German. Students are expected to complete homework and guided study ahead of seminar classes. 

Skills that will be practised and developed

  • Lectures will develop the student’s capacity to absorb information, including through note-taking;
  • Seminars will develop the capacity to deploy this information and apply it to texts drawn from the world of business in the target language country as well as regularly practising the German language;
  • Seminars and coursework will enable students to develop their vocabulary, improve their writing skills in a range of areas (letters, emails, reports, CVs etc.), improve their listening, speaking, and, in some cases, presentation skills in German;
  • Through coursework and examination students will demonstrate their knowledge of the world of business in German speaking countries; and
  • Other academic and key skills developed include research and organisational skills, communication and basic word-processing skills, intercultural awareness as well as interpersonal, negotiation and team-working skills.

How the module will be assessed

The coursework element will count for 100% of the total mark and will include summative assessments which may take the form of correspondence, essays, summaries and/ or projects in the target language. Formative assessments will also be undertaken but will not count towards the module mark.

Mapping of Assessments to Intended Learning Outcomes

Coursework assesses all Learning Outcomes (1-4).

THE OPPORTUNITY FOR REASSESSMENT IN THIS MODULE:

In the event of failing this module, students will have the option of re-submitting an essay during the resit period. 

Assessment Breakdown

Type % Title Duration(hrs)
Written Assessment 100 Coursework Assignment N/A

Syllabus content

The syllabus content will vary

 

Introduction

The German labour market, Job applications etc.

The structure and workings of companies in Germany

The workings of the economy in the target language countries: Globalisation

Hidden Champions, Der deutsche Mittelstand

Some business courses will focus more specifically on other issues such as product development, market regulation, 


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