Computer Science

GENERAL GOALS: This course aims to develop B1-level communicative competence in the English language focused on the linguistic needs of the specific IT professional sector. Students will be able to independently understand and produce written and spoken messages in professional contexts. The course also aims to foster linguistic autonomy, by encouraging a positive attitude towards second language learning. SPECIFIC GOALS: The course will focus on essential grammar and vocabulary to support the development of B1-level communicative skills in the IT specific environment. The course will start with a review of essential prerequisites to establish a solid foundation for achieving the target level, exploiting some written scientific texts. KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING: By the end of the course, students will have acquired grammar, vocabulary, and essential language functions in the specific IT environment corresponding to the B1 intermediate level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). APPLYING KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING: By the end of the course, students will be able to understand the main points of clear professional messages in English. CRITICAL AND JUDGEMENTAL ABILITIES: Students will be able to independently identify possible language mistakes and evaluate the accuracy and effectiveness of their professional oral and written texts. Through metacognitive processes, they will develop greater awareness of their language skills and of possible areas for improvement. COMMUNICATION SKILLS: Students will be able to communicate clearly and quite competently in professional situations, interacting with other people with reasonable fluency. LEARNING ABILITY: The course will support students in developing independent learning strategies using several resources. Students will learn to organize their study, identifying their own learning needs in order to apply effective strategies to improve their language skills. They will also develop the ability to reflect on the language by comparing English structures with those of their native language.