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Course profile

Language Awareness & Cross-Cultural Competence for the Global Workplace (COMU2040)

Study period
Sem 2 2024
Location
St Lucia
Attendance mode
In Person

Course overview

Study period
Semester 2, 2024 (22/07/2024 - 18/11/2024)
Study level
Undergraduate
Location
St Lucia
Attendance mode
In Person
Units
2
Administrative campus
St Lucia
Coordinating unit
Languages & Cultures School

Google Translate and other machine translation services are changing the way we communicate with people around the world. At the same time workplaces both in Australia and abroad are becoming increasingly multilingual and multicultural. This course will introduce you to how language works and the critical role it plays in communication, alongside understanding how the ways in which language is used are central to building relationships and trust in different cultural settings. It will help you develop the cross-cultural skills you need to thrive in an increasingly globalised workplace.

Course requirements

Prerequisites

You'll need to complete the following courses before enrolling in this one:

At least 8 units of study

Recommended prerequisites

We recommend completing the following courses before enrolling in this one:

COMU1002

Course staff

Course coordinator

Lecturer

Timetable

The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.

Additional timetable information

Public holidays:

Alternative arrangements for affected students will be announced through the Blackboard site.

Class allocation:

In order to optimise the student experience, it may be necessary to reallocate students to a different class from their first choice.

Before this happens, every effort will be made to enable students to voluntarily change into an alternative class that is suitable.

Please note: Teaching staff do not have access to the N/Atimetabling system to help with class allocation. Therefore, should you need

help with your timetable and/or allocation of classes, please ensure you email hass.mytimetable@uq.edu.au from your UQ

student email account with the following details:

  • Full name,
  • Student ID, and
  • the Course Code

Additional information and support can be found here

Aims and outcomes

This course aims to enhance your understanding of how we as communicators build relationships and effective communication, and use language, which marginalises others. When we communicate with others, many factors are at play. These include the ways that languages and the norms of interaction are structured, the cultural practices of speakers and communities, and attitudes towards situations, languages and their speakers.

In this course, you will gather skills to recognise and relate these factors to communication. In doing so, you will develop the capacity to communicate effectively and appropriately with people from diverse cultural backgrounds in global communication.

Learning outcomes

After successfully completing this course you should be able to:

LO1.

Recognise the ways in which language in communication is used to build relationships and trust, and to exclude and marginalise.

LO2.

Effectively apply verbal and non-verbal language and communication knowledge and skills to intercultural communication contexts

LO3.

Effectively apply theories and concepts in analysing communication, identify problems and provide solutions.

LO4.

Critically reflect upon your view of communication and its influence on interaction to demonstrate your adaptability and responsibility as an effective communicator in increasingly globalised and culturally diverse workplaces.

Assessment

Assessment summary

Category Assessment task Weight Due date
Presentation VLOG Reflection and response
  • Identity Verified
  • Online
30% - 3 x 10% per Vlog

Vlog 1 - 9/08/2024 2:00 pm

Vlog 2 - 6/09/2024 2:00 pm

Vlog 3 - 11/10/2024 2:00 pm

Quiz, Tutorial/ Problem Set Task - Module 1
  • Online
15%

23/08/2024 2:00 pm

Quiz, Tutorial/ Problem Set Task - Module 2
  • Online
15%

20/09/2024 2:00 pm

Tutorial/ Problem Set Final assessment
  • Online
40%

6/11/2024 - 8/11/2024

The final assessment is available for 48 hours. Must be submitted by 2:00 pm on the Friday in the first week of the University examination period.

Assessment details

VLOG Reflection and response

  • Identity Verified
  • Online
Mode
Product/ Artefact/ Multimedia
Category
Presentation
Weight
30% - 3 x 10% per Vlog
Due date

Vlog 1 - 9/08/2024 2:00 pm

Vlog 2 - 6/09/2024 2:00 pm

Vlog 3 - 11/10/2024 2:00 pm

Task description

Students will record a vlog for each of the three modules. In each vlog post, you will respond in 3-4 minutes to a set of questions about the course material in the first three weeks of the module. Questions will be provided via Blackboard in weeks 3, 7 and 11. You will be asked to explain key concepts in the material and relate them to your experience and/or views. You will be required to upload your vlog in Blackboard and your submission will be made available to all students in the class after all submissions are marked.

STATEMENT ON GEN AI & MT

This task has been designed to be challenging, authentic and complex. Whilst students may use AI and/or MT technologies, successful completion of assessment in this course will require students to critically engage in specific contexts and tasks for which artificial intelligence will provide only limited support and guidance.

A failure to reference generative AI use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.

To pass this assessment, students will be required to demonstrate detailed comprehension of their written submission independent of AI tools.

Submission guidelines

Students will be able to access instructions about this assesment task via our course Blackboard site.

Deferral or extension

You may be able to apply for an extension.

The maximum extension allowed is 7 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.

The maximum extension length is 7 calendar days so feedback can be released in a timely manner and support sequential learning.

Late submission

A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.

Task - Module 1

  • Online
Mode
Written
Category
Quiz, Tutorial/ Problem Set
Weight
15%
Due date

23/08/2024 2:00 pm

Other conditions
Time limited.

See the conditions definitions

Task description

This is an online task that will be made up of: 

  • Multiple choice questions (4 questions, each 1%);
  • Open-ended questions (readings + content) (2 questions x 1.5%)
  • Practical tasks (8%): Data analysis (2 tasks x 4%) relating to content from Module 1.

This will be marked out 15 marks.

Multiple choice questions will be automatically marked; open-ended and data analysis questions will be assessed based on your demonstration of course content knowledge.

Availability and Duration: You will be able to access the task on Blackboard for 48 hours. Once you have accessed it, you need to complete the task within 60 minutes.

If you require any adjustments to this assessment task, please consider applying for an Alternative Exam Arrangements. You may apply online 14 days before the start of the in-semester assessment date. 

STATEMENT ON GEN AI & MT

This task has been designed to be challenging, authentic and complex. Whilst students may use AI and/or MT technologies, successful completion of assessment in this course will require students to critically engage in specific contexts and tasks for which artificial intelligence will provide only limited support and guidance.

A failure to reference generative AI use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.

To pass this assessment, students will be required to demonstrate detailed comprehension of their written submission independent of AI tools.

Submission guidelines

Students will be able to access this assesment task via our course Blackboard site.

Deferral or extension

You may be able to apply for an extension.

The maximum extension allowed is 14 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.

This task is available for 48 hours. The maximum extension length is 14 calendar days to allow for timely release of results and feedback to support student learning.

Late submission

A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.

Task - Module 2

  • Online
Mode
Written
Category
Quiz, Tutorial/ Problem Set
Weight
15%
Due date

20/09/2024 2:00 pm

Other conditions
Time limited.

See the conditions definitions

Task description

This is an online task that will be made up of: 

  • Multiple choice questions (4 questions, each 1%);
  • Open-ended questions (readings + content) (2 questions x 1.5%)
  • Practical tasks (8%): Data analysis (2 tasks x 4%)

relating to content from Module 2.

This will be marked out 15 marks.

Multiple choice questions will be automatically marked; open-ended and data analysis questions will be assessed based on your demonstration of course content knowledge.

Availability and Duration: You will be able to access the task on Blackboard for 48 hours. Once you have accessed it, you need to complete the task within 60 minutes.

If you require any adjustments to this assessment task, please consider applying for an Alternative Exam Arrangements. You may apply online 14 days before the start of the in-semester assessment date. 

STATEMENT ON GEN AI & MT

This task has been designed to be challenging, authentic and complex. Whilst students may use AI and/or MT technologies, successful completion of assessment in this course will require students to critically engage in specific contexts and tasks for which artificial intelligence will provide only limited support and guidance.

A failure to reference generative AI use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.

To pass this assessment, students will be required to demonstrate detailed comprehension of their written submission independent of AI tools.

Submission guidelines

Students will be able to access this assesment task via our course Blackboard site.

Deferral or extension

You may be able to apply for an extension.

The maximum extension allowed is 14 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.

This task is available for 48 hours. The maximum extension length is 14 calendar days to allow for timely release of results and feedback to support student learning.

Late submission

A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.

Final assessment

  • Online
Mode
Written
Category
Tutorial/ Problem Set
Weight
40%
Due date

6/11/2024 - 8/11/2024

The final assessment is available for 48 hours. Must be submitted by 2:00 pm on the Friday in the first week of the University examination period.

Other conditions
Time limited.

See the conditions definitions

Task description

The final assessment is an online task that tests understanding and application of material and methods covered in the three modules.

Availability and Duration: You will be able to access the task on Blackboard for 48 hours. Once you have accessed it, you need to complete the task within 120 minutes.

STATEMENT ON GEN AI & MT

This task has been designed to be challenging, authentic and complex. Whilst students may use AI and/or MT technologies, successful completion of assessment in this course will require students to critically engage in specific contexts and tasks for which artificial intelligence will provide only limited support and guidance.

A failure to reference generative AI use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.

To pass this assessment, students will be required to demonstrate detailed comprehension of their written submission independent of AI tools.

Submission guidelines

Students will be able to access this assesment task via our course Blackboard site.

Deferral or extension

You may be able to apply for an extension.

The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.

Late submission

A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.

Course grading

Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.

Grade Cut off Percent Description
1 (Low Fail) 0 - 24

Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: Fails to demonstrate most or all of the basic requirements of the course.

2 (Fail) 25 - 44

Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: Demonstrates clear deficiencies in understanding and applying fundamental concepts; communicates information or ideas in ways that are frequently incomplete or confusing and give little attention to the conventions of the discipline.

3 (Marginal Fail) 45 - 49

Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes

Course grade description: Demonstrates superficial or partial or faulty understanding of the fundamental concepts of the field of study and limited ability to apply these concepts; presents undeveloped or inappropriate or unsupported arguments; communicates information or ideas with lack of clarity and inconsistent adherence to the conventions of the discipline.

4 (Pass) 50 - 64

Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: Demonstrates adequate understanding and application of the fundamental concepts of the field of study; develops routine arguments or decisions and provides acceptable justification; communicates information and ideas adequately in terms of the conventions of the discipline.

5 (Credit) 65 - 74

Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: Demonstrates substantial understanding of fundamental concepts of the field of study and ability to apply these concepts in a variety of contexts; develops or adapts convincing arguments and provides coherent justification; communicates information and ideas clearly and fluently in terms of the conventions of the discipline.

6 (Distinction) 75 - 84

Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: As for 5, with frequent evidence of originality in defining and analysing issues or problems and in creating solutions; uses a level, style and means of communication appropriate to the discipline and the audience.

7 (High Distinction) 85 - 100

Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes.

Course grade description: As for 6, with consistent evidence of substantial originality and insight in identifying, generating and communicating competing arguments, perspectives or problem solving approaches; critically evaluates problems, their solutions and implications.

Additional course grading information

Marking criteria and/or marking rubrics are available in the ‘Assessment’ folder in Blackboard for this course. 

Supplementary assessment

Supplementary assessment is available for this course.

Learning resources

You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.

Library resources

Find the required and recommended resources for this course on the UQ Library website.

Additional learning resources information

Required minilectures, resources and recommended readings will be made available via the UQ Extend course via the Blackboard site.

Lecture/tutorial slides as well as any handouts, supplementary learning materials, weblinks, and assessment tasks will be posted onᅠBlackboard.

Learning activities

The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.

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Learning period Activity type Topic
Week 1

(22 Jul - 28 Jul)

General contact hours

WEEK 1: Models of communication across languages

 Getting to know the class and analysing data.

Week 2

(29 Jul - 04 Aug)

General contact hours

WEEK 2: Communication and meaning

Understanding and (hidden) misunderstanding

Week 3

(05 Aug - 11 Aug)

General contact hours

WEEK 3: Communication and Inference

Inferring meaning and attitudes

Week 4

(12 Aug - 18 Aug)

General contact hours

WEEK 4: Communication - linguistic and cultural diversity

Speech acts across languages

Week 5

(19 Aug - 25 Aug)

General contact hours

WEEK 5: Diversity in Australia

Discussion and mapping

Week 6

(26 Aug - 01 Sep)

General contact hours

WEEK 6: Diversity in Australia

Discussion and language analysis

Week 7

(02 Sep - 08 Sep)

General contact hours

WEEK 7: Diversity in Australia

Discussion and language analysis

Week 8

(09 Sep - 15 Sep)

General contact hours

WEEK 8: Diversity in Australia

Discussion and critical appraisal

Week 9

(16 Sep - 22 Sep)

General contact hours

WEEK 9: Language in workplaces

Language in legal contexts

Mid Sem break

(23 Sep - 29 Sep)

No student involvement (Breaks, information)

Mid Semester break

Week 10

(30 Sep - 06 Oct)

General contact hours

WEEK 10: Small talk in the workplace

Meeting structure, small talk and social chat

Week 11

(07 Oct - 13 Oct)

General contact hours

WEEK 11: Problematic talk in the workplace

 Interaction and relationships in the workplace

Week 12

(14 Oct - 20 Oct)

General contact hours

WEEK 12: Humour in the workplace

Humour and workplace culture

Week 13

(21 Oct - 27 Oct)

General contact hours

WEEK 13: Course review

Policies and procedures

University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:

Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.