OVERVIEW

This course is designed to enhance students’ proficiency in English within the context of computer engineering. It aims to strengthen students’ language skills in all four key areas—writing, speaking, listening, and reading—with a strong emphasis on interaction and practical communication. Using a communicative approach, the course incorporates authentic materials to enhance students’ ability to engage in professional and academic settings. Through interactive activities, students will refine their ability to express concepts clearly, collaborate effectively, and produce high-quality written and spoken communication suitable for their field.

AIMS AND CONTENT

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Engage in technical discussions with confidence, participating in debates, problem-solving activities, and project-based communication.
• Develop effective listening skills to comprehend and analyze technical talks, conference presentations, and professional discussions.
• Improve academic and technical writing skills, including structuring research papers and composing professional emails.
• Critically analyze and synthesize information from articles.
• Apply accurate grammar, tone, and style in both oral and written communication tailored to professional and academic settings.
• Develop collaborative communication skills for teamwork, meetings, and interdisciplinary projects.
• Prepare for professional interactions, such as interviews, networking events, and conferences, by mastering formal and informal communication techniques.

PREREQUISITES

An Upper-Intermediate level of English proficiency (Level B2 in the CEFR) is required for the course. 

TEACHING METHODS

This course follows a communicative approach, emphasizing active student participation and interaction to develop practical language skills. It incorporates authentic materials to ensure that students engage with real-world language use. Through discussions, speaking and writing activities, and collaborative learning, students will strengthen their ability to communicate effectively in academic and professional settings.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

All course materials will be made available on Aulaweb.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

Exam Board

GIULIA CHIANTIA (President)

ROBERTO SACILE

DAVIDE ANGUITA (President Substitute)

LESSONS

LESSONS START

Lessons start on Friday 21st February (h 10-12).

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

Written exam: 

Part 1: Reading comprehension & Use of English. One article with exercises. 
Part 2: Writing. Summary or argumentative text (between 250 and 350 words).
Both parts will deal with topics discussed throughout the course. 

For the assessment of the writing part the following criteria will be taken into account: accuracy (grammar, spelling), vocabulary and proper style. 

Exam schedule