The course is designed to equip learners with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively communicate in English within diverse international business contexts.
The course is structured to address the challenges that arise when conducting business across cultures, focusing on fostering clear and efficient communication between individuals from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. It aims to build students' confidence and proficiency in using English as a means of bridging gaps and promoting successful collaborations in the global business environment.
Key Topics Covered:
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Intercultural Communication: The course begins by introducing the concept of intercultural communication and its significance in the context of international business. Students learn to recognize cultural variations in communication styles, etiquette, and non-verbal cues.
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Business English Vocabulary: Essential business terminologies, jargon, and expressions are presented to enhance learners' ability to express themselves accurately and professionally in various business scenarios.
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Writing Effective Business Correspondence: Participants are guided through crafting clear and concise emails, memos, reports, and other written communication materials commonly used in business settings.
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Effective Presentation Skills: The course provides valuable insights into delivering impactful presentations in English, including techniques to engage diverse audiences and address potential cross-cultural communication challenges.
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Negotiation and Conflict Resolution: Students gain essential skills for negotiating and resolving conflicts with international partners, considering cultural differences that might influence negotiation strategies.
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Cultural Sensitivity and Awareness: This segment emphasizes the importance of cultural sensitivity in avoiding misunderstandings and misinterpretations during business interactions.
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Case Studies and Real-life Scenarios: Learners analyze real-world case studies and participate in simulated business scenarios to apply their knowledge in practical contexts.
Throughout the course, interactive exercises, quizzes, and assignments are incorporated to assess comprehension and reinforce learning. Learners receive constructive feedback to track their progress and improve their language proficiency.
By completing Business English for Cross-cultural Communication students are better prepared to navigate the complexities of cross-cultural interactions, enabling them to communicate effectively and succeed in the global business landscape.
Course Content:
This course aims to prepare you for working in an cross-cultural Business setting. We'll learn about common cross-cultural theories and how they are relevant to everyday business practices in a globalised world. By combining all of your vocabulary, reading, speaking, and writing skills that you acquired in the previous three courses, you will learn how language plays an important role in cross-cultural communication. You will also enhance your cross-cultural understanding and will be able to use vocabulary, tone and style, and spoken and written communication skills within a cross-cultural Business context. Skills learned in this course help prepare you to deliver the professional business presentation in the Capstone project.
The course Business English for Cross-cultural Communication by Kin Tang on Coursera is divided into 6 weeks. Here is a detailed breakdown of the weeks:
Week 1: Welcome module
1 video (Total 4 min), 4 readings
Welcome 3m
Objectives and outcomes 10m
Learning how to learn 10m
Learning vocabulary 10m
The HKUST Grammar Guide 10m
Week 2: What is culture?
4 videos (Total 21 min), 7 readings, 4 quizzes
English as a Lingua Franca 8m
Challenging grammar: comparative and superlative forms 2m
Challenging English sounds /ʃ/ "sherry" and /ʧ/ "cherry"s 3m
Objectives and outcomes 10m
Vocabulary prep 10m
Can we define culture? 10m
Objectives and outcomes 10m
Vocabulary list 10m
More on comparative and superlative forms 10m
Relatively, rather, compared to 10m
Vocabulary practice 30m
Vocabulary practice 30m
Module2 30m
Week 3: Culture and communication strategies
9 videos (Total 73 min), 8 readings, 6 quizzes
The cultural situation - Part1 10m
The cultural situation - Part2 10m
Cultural strategy - Writing 7m
Cultural strategy: Speaking (Part 1) 12m
Cultural strategy: Speaking (Part 2) 9m
Challenging English Grammar: Connective choice 3m
Challenging English Sounds - /ŋ/ “thing” and /ŋk/ “think” 5m
Rhythm, stress and pausing 5m
Vocabulary prep 10m
Cross-cultural communication barriers 10m
Avoiding cultural faux pas in international business 10m
Objectives and outcomes 10m
Vocabulary list 10m
Adverb and Connective Choice 10m
List of conjuncts 10m
Peer review practice: Sample of a culturally insensitive email 10m
Vocabulary prep 30m
Vocabulary practice 30m
Culturally insensitive email: peer review practice 30m
Module3 30m
Week 4: Culture and management communication
5 videos (Total 31 min), 5 readings, 4 quizzes
Hofstede's cultural dimensions 9m
Cross-cultural communication skills for management 8m
Directness of language 7m
Challenging English Grammar:The continuous tense 2m
Challenging English sounds: /w/ "west"-v- /v/ "vest" 4m
More on Hofstede's cultural dimensions 10m
Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions: applications, further studies, and criticisms 10m
Objectives and outcomes 10m
Vocabulary list 10m
More on the continuous (past, present, future) 10m
Vocabulary practice 30m
Module4 30m
Week 5: Culture, application and ethics
6 videos (Total 33 min), 4 readings, 4 quizzes
Applying Cultural Frameworks 7m
Business Negotiations 7m
Applying Cultural Frameworks in Business Ethics 6m
Challenging English Sounds-/l/ "light" and /r/ "right" 4m
Challenging English Grammar: Misplaced modifiers & dangling participles 2m
Analyzing case studies 5m
Directness of communication - in Cross Cultural Contexts 10m
Objectives and outcomes 10m
Vocabulary list 10m
More on misplaced modifiers & dangling participles 10m
Vocabulary practice 30m
Module5 30m
Week 6: Concluding module
Final exam 30m
Reviews:
As a former learner of the course Business English for Cross-cultural Communication by Kin Tang on Coursera, I can confidently say that this was a highly valuable and enriching learning experience. The course surpassed my expectations and provided me with essential skills and knowledge to navigate the intricacies of cross-cultural communication in the business world.
One of the strongest aspects of the course was Kin Tang's expertise and his ability to effectively convey complex concepts in a clear and engaging manner. His deep understanding of both language education and cross-cultural communication was evident throughout the course. I appreciated how he integrated practical examples and real-life scenarios, which made the content relatable and applicable to various business situations.
The course structure was well-organized, offering a systematic progression of topics that built upon each other. From intercultural communication and business vocabulary to negotiation strategies and conflict resolution, each module contributed to a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
The interactive exercises and assignments were thoughtfully designed to reinforce learning and provide ample opportunities for practice. Peer feedback on assignments encouraged a sense of community and collaboration among learners from diverse backgrounds, which further enhanced the cross-cultural learning experience.
The emphasis on cultural sensitivity and awareness was a standout feature of the course. It fostered a deeper appreciation for different cultural norms and communication styles, empowering me to interact more effectively with international colleagues and clients.
Furthermore, the course platform on Coursera was user-friendly and allowed me to study at my own pace, which was a great advantage for a working professional like myself. The availability of transcripts and subtitles also catered to learners with varying language proficiency levels, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility.
Overall, Business English for Cross-cultural Communication proved to be an invaluable investment in my professional development. It boosted my confidence in using English as a business language and equipped me with the necessary tools to succeed in a global business environment. I highly recommend this course to anyone seeking to excel in cross-cultural business communication and broaden their horizons in the international marketplace.
What you'll learn:
After completing the course Business English for Cross-cultural Communication by Kin Tang on Coursera, learners can expect to develop a range of valuable skills in the English language specifically tailored for successful communication in international business contexts. Here are some of the skills that participants can acquire:
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Enhanced Business English Proficiency: Learners will improve their overall command of the English language, including vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation, with a focus on using language appropriately in various business situations.
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Cross-cultural Communication Skills: Participants will gain a deeper understanding of cultural differences in communication styles, non-verbal cues, and business etiquette, enabling them to adapt their communication approach when interacting with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.
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Effective Business Writing: Students will be equipped with the ability to draft clear, concise, and professional business correspondence, such as emails, memos, and reports, ensuring that their messages are well-received and understood by international partners.
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Confident Presentation Abilities: The course will help learners develop strong presentation skills in English, allowing them to deliver engaging and persuasive presentations to diverse audiences, while considering cultural nuances.
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Negotiation and Conflict Resolution Competence: Participants will be trained in negotiation strategies and conflict resolution techniques, considering cultural sensitivities to achieve successful outcomes in business dealings.
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Cultural Sensitivity and Awareness: Learners will become more culturally sensitive and aware, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings and fostering positive relationships with international colleagues and clients.
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Practical Application of Knowledge: Through case studies and real-life scenarios, participants will have the opportunity to apply their acquired knowledge and skills in practical situations, preparing them for real-world cross-cultural business challenges.
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Increased Confidence in International Business Settings: By mastering business English for cross-cultural communication, students will gain confidence in their ability to interact professionally and effectively in global business environments.
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Global Networking and Collaboration: The course may provide opportunities for learners to connect with a diverse community of professionals, expanding their global network and potential collaboration opportunities.
Overall, Business English for Cross-cultural Communication empowers learners with the language tools and cultural insights necessary to navigate the complexities of international business interactions, fostering successful cross-cultural collaborations and communication.
Author:
Kin Tang is a highly accomplished and esteemed professional known for his expertise in the field of Business English and Cross-cultural Communication. With a passion for language and intercultural understanding, Kin Tang has made significant contributions to the realm of international business communication.
As an expert in the field, Kin Tang has authored the renowned online course Business English for Cross-cultural Communication on Coursera, which has garnered praise for its comprehensive and practical approach to teaching effective communication in diverse business settings.
Kin Tang's background includes extensive experience in language education and cross-cultural training. He holds advanced degrees in Applied Linguistics and Intercultural Communication, demonstrating a solid academic foundation that informs his instructional methodologies.
His teaching style is known for being engaging, informative, and tailored to the needs of learners from various cultural backgrounds. Kin Tang has a keen ability to navigate the complexities of cross-cultural communication, helping students understand the nuances of business interactions across borders.
Moreover, his course materials and resources are designed to enhance learners' language proficiency, providing practical tools for writing professional business correspondence, delivering compelling presentations, and negotiating successfully with international partners.
Kin Tang's commitment to promoting cultural sensitivity and awareness is evident throughout the course, as he emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting cultural differences in the global business landscape.
Overall, Kin Tang's expertise and pedagogical approach have made a significant impact on individuals seeking to excel in international business communication. Through his course and teachings, learners have gained valuable skills that enable them to navigate cross-cultural interactions with confidence and success, ultimately contributing to their professional growth in today's interconnected world.
Requirements:
The course Business English for Cross-cultural Communication by author Kin Tang encompasses the following requirements:
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English Proficiency: A fundamental requirement for this course is a basic level of English proficiency. Participants should possess the ability to understand and communicate in English to effectively engage with the course content.
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Open-mindedness and Cultural Curiosity: As the course emphasizes cross-cultural communication, learners are expected to approach the subject matter with an open mind and a genuine curiosity about different cultures and communication styles.
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Access to Technology: Since the course is offered on Coursera, participants need access to a computer or mobile device with an internet connection to access the course materials, lectures, and interactive components.
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Commitment to Learning: Successful completion of the course requires dedication and active participation. Students should be committed to investing time and effort in the learning process, completing assignments, and engaging with fellow learners in discussions.
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Basic Knowledge of Business Concepts: While the course primarily focuses on language and communication, having a foundational understanding of general business concepts can be beneficial in applying the language skills in relevant scenarios.
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Willingness to Practice: Business language skills, like any language, improve with practice. Learners should be willing to engage in speaking, writing, and listening exercises to reinforce their understanding and proficiency.
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Time Management: Participants should manage their time effectively to progress through the course at a pace that suits their learning style while meeting any assignment deadlines set by the course structure.
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Respectful Communication: Given the cross-cultural context of the course, learners are expected to engage in respectful and inclusive communication with their peers, fostering an environment of cultural sensitivity and understanding.
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Ability to Provide and Receive Feedback: The course may involve peer feedback on assignments or discussions. Participants should be willing to provide constructive feedback to their peers and be open to receiving feedback to enhance their own learning experience.
By meeting these requirements, learners can fully immerse themselves in the course and maximize their understanding of business English for cross-cultural communication, ultimately honing their skills for success in global business environments.
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