To extend students’ specific academic language and study skills for the International Relations program, with an emphasis on academic integrity, critical thinking and independent learning, in order to allow them to function more effectively in their IR modules, as well as in their overall academic career, and to raise their language skills to CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) B2 level (where applicable).
A demonstrate a range of level-appropriate academic research skills
B demonstrate a range of level-appropriate (CEFR B2) academic writing skills to summarize and critically analyze discipline-specific topics with an appropriate academic style and lexical register.
C demonstrate level-appropriate (CEFR B2) academic speaking skills with a high degree of fluency, appropriate academic style (when required) and discipline-specific lexical register.
D demonstrate level-appropriate constructive criticism of peers’ work.
E use references and citations skillfully and synthesize sources (when required) in adherence with academic integrity requirements.
The module will be delivered through interactive seminar sessions, with an emphasis on developing the specific academic and language skills needed to be successful members of the International Relations Department. Students will attend 2 x 1.5 hour seminars per week. This module will take a “flipped classroom” approach as students will also be required to watch one hour of (video) lectures prior to attending the weekly seminars.
This module will be delivered in close collaboration with faculty from the IR Department. Assessment components on this module will include: 1) lecture summary notes with citations and references; 2) an annotated bibliography; 3) critique essay that analyzes the academic merit of sources from peer’s bibliography; and 4) presentation of a critique of peer spoken work. Formative tasks will include focus on the process of drafting and revising genre-specific texts within IR.
Students will also be given guidance on, and opportunities to practice the various skills mentioned in these specifications. The self-study activities will be extensions and/or consolidation of work carried out in the seminars. No more than two classes per semester (four hours) will be replaced with one-on-one or group tutorials.