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Tamy Chapman,
Meg Parker,
Helen Nam,
and
Brad Gilpin
This is the third course in the Learn English: Advanced Speaking and Listening specialization. In this class you will learn about different types of conversations you will have in academic settings. You will also learn some strategies for helping you understand other people's meaning and for helping you express yourself effectively. Learners will record several videos of themselves participating in assigned group discussions with their own friends and upload the videos for peer feedback. While this might seem intimidating, it will be a great opportunity for you to practice and improve your discussion skills.
Read more
This is the third course in the Learn English: Advanced Speaking and Listening specialization. In this class you will learn about different types of conversations you will have in academic settings. You will also learn some strategies for helping you understand other people's meaning and for helping you express yourself effectively. Learners will record several videos of themselves participating in assigned group discussions with their own friends and upload the videos for peer feedback. While this might seem intimidating, it will be a great opportunity for you to practice and improve your discussion skills.
Read more
This is the third course in the Learn English: Advanced Speaking and Listening specialization. In this class you will learn about different types of conversations you will have in academic settings. You will also learn some strategies for helping you understand other people's meaning and for helping you express yourself effectively. Learners will record several videos of themselves participating in assigned group discussions with their own friends and upload the videos for peer feedback. While this might seem intimidating, it will be a great opportunity for you to practice and improve your discussion skills.
Please note that the free version of this class gives you access to all of the instructional videos and handouts. The peer feedback and quizzes are only available in the paid version.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/6i3glu/academic
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What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction to Discussions
This is the third course in the Learn English: Advanced Speaking and Listening specialization. In this class you will learn about different types of conversations you will have in academic settings. You will also learn some strategies for helping you understand other people's meaning and for helping you express yourself effectively. This first module will show you the importance of effective academic conversational English. You'll see how it is different from other conversational English and why it is necessary to make you successful in college environments. Finally, you'll do a video assignment in which you record yourself in a group discussion. You'll submit this video for feedback on your discussion techniques.
Read more
Syllabus
Introduction to Discussions
This is the third course in the Learn English: Advanced Speaking and Listening specialization. In this class you will learn about different types of conversations you will have in academic settings. You will also learn some strategies for helping you understand other people's meaning and for helping you express yourself effectively. This first module will show you the importance of effective academic conversational English. You'll see how it is different from other conversational English and why it is necessary to make you successful in college environments. Finally, you'll do a video assignment in which you record yourself in a group discussion. You'll submit this video for feedback on your discussion techniques.
Read more
Elaboration
This week, you'll learn about the importance of elaborating in a conversation and learn to avoid some common problems that occur when elaboration doesn't happen. You'll learn several ways to add examples to your discussions and how to use critical thinking to take make your discussions go deeper. Again, you will have the chance to practice having a group discussion and to submit a video of it for feedback.
Interaction
Now, you'll learn how to maintain a smooth discussion by avoiding common problems with interaction and participation. You'll also learn how to listen to other speakers' ideas and learn how to agree or disagree with others in your discussion. Once again, you will be able to practice having a group discussion, and you will record and share the video with other learners.
Synthesis
In the final week, you will learn how to synthesize the ideas in your discussions and how to come up with meaningful take-aways and action points. You'll also learn how to reflect on the important points in a discussion so that the whole thing is meaningful. You will get one more chance to demonstrate your discussion skills and get feedback by sharing a video of your discussion.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Develops proficiency in academic conversational English, which is necessary for success in college environments
Teaches elaboration as a technique to enhance understanding and critical thinking in conversations.
Taught by 4 instructors who are not recognized for their work in speaking and listening
Examines interaction as a means to maintain smooth discussions and effective communication techniques
Provides opportunities to practice discussion skills through group discussions and peer feedback
Teaches synthesis as a technique to summarize and reflect on important points in a discussion
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Reviews summary
Highly rated course for english discussions
Learners say this Academic Discussions in English course is excellent and essential for improving English speaking and listening skills. Students largely praise the course discussions and find the lectures informative. However, a few learners found it difficult to complete assignments on their own and experience delays in peer grading. Overall, this course is well received and recommended for learners who want to improve their English communication skills.
Clear and insightful lectures
"The course information is great."
"I`ve learned much there!!!"
Enriching and engaging discussions
"Great demonstrations of discussions and excellent analysis of the discussions."
Slow peer grading can lead to subscription delays
"it takes so much time for other classmates to grade the work"
"it can be resubmitted again, however it will take more time for the other learns to grade it again and the payment of the subscription is due every month"
Assignments can be difficult to complete solo
"The tasks are a bit difficult to complete if you are on your own."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Academic Discussions in English with these
activities:
Read a book on academic writing
Show steps
Reading a book on academic writing can help you improve your writing skills and learn about the conventions of academic writing.
Show steps
-
Purchase or borrow a book on academic writing.
-
Read the book.
-
Take notes on the key points.
-
Apply the techniques you learned to your own writing.
Volunteer as a tutor in an academic setting
Show steps
Volunteering as a tutor in an academic setting can help you develop your communication and teaching skills.
Browse courses on
Tutoring
Show steps
-
Find a tutoring opportunity in an academic setting.
-
Sign up to volunteer.
-
Prepare for your tutoring sessions.
-
Tutor students.
Compile a list of resources on academic discussions
Show steps
Compiling a list of resources on academic discussions can help you find helpful materials to support your learning.
Show steps
-
Search for resources on academic discussions.
-
Create a list of the resources you find.
-
Share your list with other learners.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Watch Ted Talks related to academic discussions
Show steps
Watching Ted Talks can expose you to different types of academic discussions and help you learn from experts in the field.
Browse courses on
Academic Discussions
Show steps
-
Identify a topic related to academic discussions that you are interested in.
-
Search for Ted Talks on that topic.
-
Watch several Ted Talks and take notes on the speakers' techniques.
-
Practice using the techniques you learned in your own academic discussions.
Practice active listening skills
Show steps
Practicing active listening skills can help you better understand what others are saying and improve your ability to participate in academic discussions.
Browse courses on
Active Listening
Show steps
-
Find a partner to practice with.
-
Take turns speaking and listening to each other.
-
As the listener, focus on understanding what the speaker is saying and ask clarifying questions.
-
As the speaker, be clear and concise in your speech.
Participate in a peer discussion group
Show steps
Participating in a peer discussion group can provide you with opportunities to practice your discussion skills and get feedback from others.
Browse courses on
Collaborative Learning
Show steps
-
Find a peer discussion group to join.
-
Attend the group's meetings.
-
Participate in the discussions.
-
Give and receive feedback to other group members.
Record yourself participating in a group discussion
Show steps
Recording yourself participating in a group discussion can help you identify areas where you can improve your discussion skills.
Show steps
-
Find a group of people to discuss with.
-
Choose a topic for your discussion.
-
Record your discussion.
-
Watch the recording and identify areas where you can improve.
Write a summary of a group discussion
Show steps
Writing a summary of a group discussion can help you consolidate your understanding of the topic and identify key points.
Show steps
-
Attend a group discussion.
-
Take notes during the discussion.
-
After the discussion, write a summary of the key points.
Read a book on academic writing
Show steps
Reading a book on academic writing can help you improve your writing skills and learn about the conventions of academic writing.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Purchase or borrow a book on academic writing.
- Read the book.
- Take notes on the key points.
- Apply the techniques you learned to your own writing.
Volunteer as a tutor in an academic setting
Show steps
Volunteering as a tutor in an academic setting can help you develop your communication and teaching skills.
Browse courses on
Tutoring
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a tutoring opportunity in an academic setting.
- Sign up to volunteer.
- Prepare for your tutoring sessions.
- Tutor students.
Compile a list of resources on academic discussions
Show steps
Compiling a list of resources on academic discussions can help you find helpful materials to support your learning.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for resources on academic discussions.
- Create a list of the resources you find.
- Share your list with other learners.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Watch Ted Talks related to academic discussions
Show steps
Watching Ted Talks can expose you to different types of academic discussions and help you learn from experts in the field.
Browse courses on
Academic Discussions
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a topic related to academic discussions that you are interested in.
- Search for Ted Talks on that topic.
- Watch several Ted Talks and take notes on the speakers' techniques.
- Practice using the techniques you learned in your own academic discussions.
Practice active listening skills
Show steps
Practicing active listening skills can help you better understand what others are saying and improve your ability to participate in academic discussions.
Browse courses on
Active Listening
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a partner to practice with.
- Take turns speaking and listening to each other.
- As the listener, focus on understanding what the speaker is saying and ask clarifying questions.
- As the speaker, be clear and concise in your speech.
Participate in a peer discussion group
Show steps
Participating in a peer discussion group can provide you with opportunities to practice your discussion skills and get feedback from others.
Browse courses on
Collaborative Learning
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a peer discussion group to join.
- Attend the group's meetings.
- Participate in the discussions.
- Give and receive feedback to other group members.
Record yourself participating in a group discussion
Show steps
Recording yourself participating in a group discussion can help you identify areas where you can improve your discussion skills.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a group of people to discuss with.
- Choose a topic for your discussion.
- Record your discussion.
- Watch the recording and identify areas where you can improve.
Write a summary of a group discussion
Show steps
Writing a summary of a group discussion can help you consolidate your understanding of the topic and identify key points.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Attend a group discussion.
- Take notes during the discussion.
- After the discussion, write a summary of the key points.
Career center
Learners who complete Academic Discussions in English will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Speech-Language Pathologist
Speech-Language Pathologist
A course called Academic Discussions in English may be useful for a Speech-Language Pathologist. In this role, communication is essential. Speech-language pathologists work with people who have difficulty communicating. They help people improve their speech, language, and swallowing skills. To be successful in this field, you need to be able to understand and produce clear speech. You also need to be able to lead discussions and to provide clear instructions. This course will help you develop the skills you need to succeed as a Speech-Language Pathologist.
Higher Education Administrator
Higher Education Administrator
A course called Academic Discussions in English may be useful for a Higher Education Administrator. In this role, you will be responsible for overseeing the academic programs and services at a college or university. You will also work with faculty and students to ensure that the academic mission of the institution is being met. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be an effective Higher Education Administrator. You will learn about different types of discussions, as well as strategies for effective participation. You will also practice participating in group discussions, and you will get feedback on your participation.
Educational Consultant
Educational Consultant
A course called Academic Discussions in English may be useful for an Educational Consultant. In this role, you will work with students, parents, and teachers to improve educational outcomes. You will also develop and implement educational programs and services. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be an effective Educational Consultant. You will learn about different types of discussions, as well as strategies for effective participation. You will also practice participating in group discussions, and you will get feedback on your participation.
English Language Arts Teacher
English Language Arts Teacher
A course called Academic Discussions in English may be useful for an English Language Arts Teacher. In this role, you will be responsible for teaching students how to read, write, and speak English effectively. You will also lead discussions on literature and other topics. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be an effective English Language Arts Teacher. You will learn about different types of discussions, as well as strategies for effective participation. You will also practice participating in group discussions, and you will get feedback on your participation.
Copywriter
Copywriter
A course called Academic Discussions in English may be useful for a Copywriter. In this role, you will be responsible for writing marketing and advertising copy. You will also work with clients to develop and refine their copy. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be an effective Copywriter. You will learn about different types of discussions, as well as strategies for effective participation. You will also practice participating in group discussions, and you will get feedback on your participation.
Fundraiser
Fundraiser
A course called Academic Discussions in English may be useful for a Fundraiser. In this role, you will be responsible for raising money for an organization. You will also develop and implement fundraising campaigns. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be an effective Fundraiser. You will learn about different types of discussions, as well as strategies for effective participation. You will also practice participating in group discussions, and you will get feedback on your participation.
Journalist
Journalist
A course called Academic Discussions in English may be useful for a Journalist. In this role, you will be responsible for gathering, analyzing, and reporting on news and current events. You will also write articles, stories, and other content for newspapers, magazines, and websites. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be an effective Journalist. You will learn about different types of discussions, as well as strategies for effective participation. You will also practice participating in group discussions, and you will get feedback on your participation.
Proposal Writer
Proposal Writer
A course called Academic Discussions in English may be useful for a Proposal Writer. In this role, you will be responsible for writing proposals for businesses and organizations. You will also work with clients to develop and refine their proposals. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be an effective Proposal Writer. You will learn about different types of discussions, as well as strategies for effective participation. You will also practice participating in group discussions, and you will get feedback on your participation.
Content Writer
Content Writer
A course called Academic Discussions in English may be useful for a Content Writer. In this role, you will be responsible for creating written content for websites, blogs, and other online platforms. You will also work with clients to develop and refine their content. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be an effective Content Writer. You will learn about different types of discussions, as well as strategies for effective participation. You will also practice participating in group discussions, and you will get feedback on your participation.
Market Research Analyst
Market Research Analyst
A course called Academic Discussions in English may be useful for a Market Research Analyst. In this role, you will be responsible for gathering and analyzing data on consumer behavior. You will also develop and implement market research studies. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be an effective Market Research Analyst. You will learn about different types of discussions, as well as strategies for effective participation. You will also practice participating in group discussions, and you will get feedback on your participation.
Postsecondary Teacher
Postsecondary Teacher
A course called Academic Discussions in English may be useful for a Postsecondary Teacher. In this role, leading discussions is a common task. Class discussions encourage students to interact with each other and with the course materials. Teachers must be able to guide discussions and to present material in an engaging way. In this course, you will learn about different types of discussions, as well as strategies for effective participation. You will practice participating in group discussions, and you will get feedback on your participation.
Librarian
Librarian
A course called Academic Discussions in English may be useful for a Librarian. In this role, it is important to be able to communicate effectively with patrons. Reference librarians help patrons find information, which often requires asking questions and leading discussions. Academic librarians work at colleges and universities, and they help students with research and other academic projects. Taking this course will help you develop the skills you need to communicate effectively in an academic setting.
Public Relations Specialist
Public Relations Specialist
A course called Academic Discussions in English may be useful for a Public Relations Specialist. In this role, you will be responsible for managing the public image of an organization. You will also develop and implement public relations campaigns. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be an effective Public Relations Specialist. You will learn about different types of discussions, as well as strategies for effective participation. You will also practice participating in group discussions, and you will get feedback on your participation.
Grant Writer
Grant Writer
A course called Academic Discussions in English may be useful for a Grant Writer. In this role, you will be responsible for writing grant proposals for organizations. You will also work with donors to secure funding for projects and programs. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be an effective Grant Writer. You will learn about different types of discussions, as well as strategies for effective participation. You will also practice participating in group discussions, and you will get feedback on your participation.
Technical Writer
Technical Writer
A course called Academic Discussions in English may be useful for a Technical Writer. In this role, you will be responsible for writing technical documentation, such as user manuals and training materials. You will also work with subject matter experts to gather information and to ensure that your writing is accurate and clear. This course will help you develop the skills you need to be an effective Technical Writer. You will learn about different types of discussions, as well as strategies for effective participation. You will also practice participating in group discussions, and you will get feedback on your participation.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/6i3glu/academic
Reading list
We've selected 20 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Academic Discussions in English.
Provides valuable insights and practical strategies for effective academic conversations, covering aspects such as active listening, turn-taking, and managing interruptions.
A coursebook that provides structured lessons and exercises for improving speaking skills in academic settings. Covers a range of topics, including presenting information, participating in discussions, and giving presentations.
Save
A comprehensive style guide that provides detailed guidance on grammar, usage, and formatting for academic writing and publishing. Essential for students who want to produce polished and professional-looking work.
Offers a series of graded reading texts that focus on academic topics, providing practice materials for developing reading comprehension and vocabulary skills relevant to higher education.
Provides guidance on writing academic texts, covering various genres such as essays, research papers, and dissertations, with a focus on critical thinking and effective communication.
Provides a comprehensive list of academic vocabulary and teaches learners how to decode unfamiliar words through word-building and root analysis. It will help learners expand their vocabulary and improve their understanding of academic texts.
Provides clear explanations and techniques for understanding academic texts, such as previewing, annotation, active reading, and critical analysis. It will help learners develop effective reading strategies and improve their comprehension skills.
Shares practical strategies and advice to help learners adjust to the demands of college life, such as effective learning methods, time management, critical thinking, and emotional well-being in academic settings. It can provide additional support and guidance for learners navigating the academic environment.
A comprehensive reference grammar that provides a detailed analysis of the structure and usage of English. Useful for students who want to improve their understanding of English grammar and usage.
A classic style guide that provides concise and clear advice on writing effectively. Essential for students who want to improve their writing skills.
Provides a comprehensive overview of discourse analysis techniques, helping learners understand how language is used in different contexts and how it shapes communication.
Save
A practical and inspiring guide to writing nonfiction. Provides advice on finding your voice, developing ideas, and crafting effective prose.
A vocabulary builder that provides clear definitions and examples of academic words and phrases. Includes exercises to help students practice using new vocabulary in context.
This handbook offers a comprehensive guide to academic writing, covering various aspects such as organizing ideas, developing arguments, citing sources, and avoiding plagiarism. It will provide learners with valuable insights and support in improving their academic writing skills.
Save
A personal and encouraging guide to writing. Provides practical advice on overcoming writer's block, developing a writing routine, and finding joy in the writing process.
Offers practical techniques and tips for effective communication, such as active listening, nonverbal cues, building rapport, and handling difficult conversations. It can help learners improve their communication skills and make meaningful connections in academic and professional settings.
Save
Explores the principles of critical thinking and problem-solving, such as logical reasoning, argument analysis, and overcoming cognitive biases. It will help learners develop their analytical skills and improve their ability to critically evaluate information.
Focuses on the analysis of argumentative texts, covering aspects such as identifying claims, evidence, and counterarguments. It will help learners develop critical reading skills and improve their ability to evaluate and construct arguments.
Save
While not directly focused on academic discussions, this book offers a solid foundation in research methods that can be valuable for understanding the principles of evidence-based discourse and critical analysis.
Offers a collection of essays exploring various aspects of intercultural communication, such as cultural differences, communication styles, and the challenges of cross-cultural interactions. It will provide learners with a deeper understanding of cultural diversity and its implications in academic and professional settings.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/6i3glu/academic
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Effort
4-5 hours/week for 4 weeks
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of California, Irvine
Instructors
Tamy Chapman
Meg Parker
Helen Nam
Brad Gilpin
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
Deutsch
Italiano
中文
العربية
한국어
日本語
हिंदी
Nederlands
Svenska
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українська мова
magyar nyelv
Bahasa Indonesia
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اُردُو,
فارسی
বাংলা
tiếng Việt
پښتو
آذربایجان دیلی
Shqip
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Learn English: Advanced Academic Speaking and Listening. It's comprised of four courses:
- Presentations: Speaking so that People Listen
- Academic Listening and Note-Taking
- Advanced Speaking and Listening Project
- Academic Discussions in English (viewing)
Good to know
Develops proficiency in academic conversational English, which is necessary for success in college environments
Teaches elaboration as a technique to enhance understanding and critical thinking in conversations.
Taught by 4 instructors who are not recognized for their work in speaking and listening
Examines interaction as a means to maintain smooth discussions and effective communication techniques
Provides opportunities to practice discussion skills through group discussions and peer feedback
Teaches synthesis as a technique to summarize and reflect on important points in a discussion
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