175-127 Academic English: Information Technology

Formerly available as 145-011/127. Students who have completed 145-011/127 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Non-native speakers of English may enrol without sitting for a placement test but may be recommended to other subjects during the first two weeks of the semester depending on their English language proficiency. Native or near-native speakers of English are not eligible to enrol.

This subject focuses on the development of content-based English for academic purposes through a study of systems analysis and design methods. The subject requires students to focus on language and tasks which are integral to their academic studies and which will also prepare them for the professional setting. The discipline-specific content will be delivered by academic staff with expertise in information systems and computer science. Topics will include methods for gathering information about problem situations, and methods for feeding back information. Through participation in this subject, students should develop their ability to speak appropriately in academic settings, deliver presentations confidently using electronic tools, communicate well in a team, take notes in lectures, critically evaluate academic texts and write assignments, reports and summaries fluently, accurately and appropriately.

• synthesise and organise material from spoken and written sources;

• develop independent learning strategies;

• develop an understanding of group dynamics and gain experience in team participation.

A group project (includes written and spoken components) equivalent to 1400 words 35% (due mid-semester); an individual oral presentation of 800 words 20% (due end of semester); a research report of 1400 words 35% (due end of semester); class exercise totalling 400 words 10% (due end of semester).

A subject reader will be available from the University Bookroom