Advanced Technical Communication

Faculty

Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science

Version

Version 1 of 27.11.2025.

Module identifier

11B0002

Module level

Bachelor

Language of instruction

English

ECTS credit points and grading

5.0

Module frequency

winter and summer term

Duration

1 semester

 

 

Brief description

In order to be successful in professional life, technical expertise as well as good communication skills are essential. In our globilised world the skill of acquiring knowledge from publications in the English language and to communicate effectively in that language are fundamental.

Teaching and learning outcomes

  1. Exercises to train communication skills with current texts selected from technical specializations 
  2. Description of complex technical systems
  3. Intensive training of presentation techniques based on technical topics 
  4. Group discussions of current technical topics
  5. Study of intercultural communication
  6. Cultural briefings and case studies to heighten awareness of intercultural differences

Overall workload

The total workload for the module is 150 hours (see also "ECTS credit points and grading").

Teaching and learning methods
Lecturer based learning
Workload hoursType of teachingMedia implementationConcretization
60LecturePresence-
Lecturer independent learning
Workload hoursType of teachingMedia implementationConcretization
40Preparation/follow-up for course work-
30Presentation preparation-
20Exam preparation-
Graded examination
  • Portfolio exam
Remark on the assessment methods

The total examination consists of 2 parts. 40 points altogether can be reached:

Oral examination (max. 20 points) and Presentation (max. 20 points)

Exam duration and scope

Oral Examination: according to the general examination regulations

Presentation: about 10-12 minutes; handout: about 2-3 pages

Recommended prior knowledge

Good English language skills, at least 7 years of English in school

Knowledge Broadening

Upon passing this module the students should have good English skills, comparable to Level C1 CEF

Knowledge deepening

Upon passing this module the students

- have a broad knowledge of presentation techniques,

- can give excellent presentations about complex technical topics in front of an international audience,

- know about other cultures and can adapt their behaviour accordingly,

- can apply techniques to understand, discuss and summarize technical texts.

Communication and Cooperation

Upon passing this module the students

- are able to communicate in English with international business partners about complex technical issues,

- demonstrate intercultural sensitivity in order to communicate successfully in an international environment.

Literature

Aktuelle Artikel* aus der englischsprachigen Fachpresse (*je nach Studiengebiet) Gurak, Laura J.; Lannon, John M.: A Concise Guide to Technical Communication, Longman, 2003, ISBN: 0321146158 Lewis, Richard D.: When Cultures Collide. Managing Successfully Across Cultures. Nicholas Brealey Publishing, 2000, ISBN: 1857880870 Reynolds, Garr: PresentationZen, Simple Ideas on Presentation Design and Delivery, New Riders, 2008, ISBN: 9780321525659

Applicability in study programs

  • Electrical Engineering in Practical Networks (dual)
    • Electrical Engineering in Practical Networks (dual) B.Sc. (01.03.2026)

  • Sustainable Materials Technology and Product Development
    • Sustainable Materials Technology and Product Development B.Sc. (01.09.2025)

  • Sustainable Materials Technology and Product Development in Practise Network
    • Sustainable Materials Technology and Product Development in Practise Network B.Sc. (01.09.2025)

  • Mechanical Engineering in Practical Networks
    • Mechanical Engineering in Practical Networks B.Sc. (01.03.2026)

  • Mechatronics
    • Mechatronics B.Sc. (01.09.2025)

  • Dental Technology
    • Dental Technology B.Sc. (01.09.2025)

  • Computer Science and Media Applications
    • Computer Science and Media Applications B.Sc. (01.09.2025)

  • Mechanical Engineering
    • Mechanical Engineering B.Sc. (01.09.2025)

  • Power, Environmental and Process Engineering
    • Power, Environmental and Process Engineering B.Sc. (01.09.2025)

  • Automotive Engineering (Bachelor)
    • Automotive Engineering B.Sc. (01.09.2025)

  • Computer Science and Computer Engineering
    • Computer Science and Computer Engineering B.Sc. (01.09.2025)

  • Electrical Engineering
    • Electrical Engineering B.Sc. (01.09.2025)

    Person responsible for the module
    • Fritz, Martina
    Teachers
    • Fritz, Martina