Module Code - Title:
GE4928
-
GERMAN FOR BUSINESS 8A
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
GE4927
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
This module is set at C1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
To develop the skill of precise writing in German. To provide an insight into the workings of the European Union (EU) and to examine the role of Ireland and Germany and current challenges and chances. To cover current topics and debates in the German-speaking countries. To prepare students to sit, on an optional basis, international examinations in Business German such as "Pr³fung Wirtschaftsdeutsch international".
Syllabus:
This syllabus is set at C1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Lecture: cultural, economic and political issues in unified Germany, Austria and Switzerland; dealing with the past; nationalism and national identity; economic, cultural and social debates (also with regard to the EU): equality, environmentalism, cultural politics, social reforms and migration.
Tutorials: a) discussions of literary texts, newspaper, magazine articles and TV programmes on topical issues connected with the lecture, focusing on the characteristics of different text types and language registers; b) examination of the institutions and policies of the EU with particular reference to Germany's and Ireland's role within the EU; c) revision of business material in general.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
* analyse and evaluate key arguments within contemporary debates in the German-speaking countries
* debate the role of literature, art and film in contemporary Austrian, German and Swiss culture their knowledge of current issues in the German-speaking countries
* identify the main historical and political and economic milestones of the EU
* explain the working of EU bodies such as the council, parliament, commission and court of justice
* discuss the ideological background, chances and challenges of the EU and the specific situation of Ireland and the German-speaking countries in it
* negotiate in intercultural settings and business environments
* analyse a topic within the area of Irish-German relations in form of an academic essay, observing formal aspects and demonstrating research skills and an ability to interpret
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
* engage critically with the manner in which culture and economy reflect and impact upon societal debate
* demonstrate confidence in identifying, researching and presenting topics in
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
Not applicable
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
A one-hour lecture will be supported by a tutorial in which texts and materials related to the lecture in the foreign language will be discussed. Two hours will be devoted to advanced language work, concentrating on business and the economy in current affairs with special references to the EU and its institutions.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Prime Texts:
B Desinger (1999)
Basiswissen Wirtschaftsdeutsch
, Iudicium
Other Relevant Texts:
J Koppensteiner (1995)
Österreich: Ein landeskundliches Lesebuch
, Verlag für Deutsch
A Phipps (2002)
Contemporary German Cultural Studies
, Arnold
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Spring
Module Leader:
orla.prendergast@ul.ie