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Nicoletta Di Blas

The course teaches engineering scholars how to improve their communication skills, based on theory, examples and practical exercises.

Topics include basics of rhetoric (how to be clear), basics of argumentation theory (how to be persuasive), public speaking, grant writing, scientific writing.

The main target are engineering scholars; the first 3 weeks, though, can be useful to anyone wishing to improve their communication skills.

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What's inside

Syllabus

How to be clear
In this week, you will learn the first three canons of rhetoric: invention (how to find what to say), arrangement (how to organize what to say) and style (how to “dress ideas in words”). Moreover, you will learn how to take into consideration the “common ground” (mutual knowledge, beliefs…) between you and your addressee as a fundamental pre-requisite for good communication.
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How to persuade
In this week, you will learn some elements of argumentation theory: what we mean by “argumentation”, how we reason when making arguments and based on what assumptions, some examples of argumentation strategies as well as of “fallacies”.
How to present in public
In this week, you will learn some tricks on how to enhance your public speaking: how to use your voice, gestures, movements; how to deal with the time you are given; how to prepare your slides. Eventually, you will “experience” what it means to listen.
How to write a project proposal
In this week, you will learn the basics of grant-writing: how to structure your proposal, write a powerful executive summary and “get ahead” of the reviewer.
How to write a scientific paper
In this week, you will learn how to structure a scientific paper, write a good abstract, not drawn in the state of the art and show that the results are valuable.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Core audience includes engineering scholars but benefits anyone who wants to improve their communication
Focuses on practical skills like writing research papers and preparing slides, which can be useful in various contexts
Offers a comprehensive overview of essential communication skills, making it useful for beginners
Teaches public speaking skills, which can be valuable for career development and personal growth
Helps learners develop foundational communication skills that can benefit them in both academic and professional settings

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Reviews summary

Well-received communications course

Students who took this communication skills course for engineering scholars said that Professor Nicoletta's lectures provide comprehensive discussions on relevant topics. Students described the content as informative and helpful.
delivers comprehensive lectures
"Prof Nicoletta delivers everything comprehensively from the general to specific topics."
includes relevant, informative discussions
"Very informative and has a comprehensive discussion on relevant communication skills that is essential to the engineering industry."

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 Communication skills for engineering scholars with these activities:
Read and review 'The Elements of Style' by Strunk and White
Review a classic guide to improve writing clarity and style.
Show steps
  • Read and annotate the book
  • Summarize and reflect on the key principles
Review foundational concepts of communication theory
Refresh your understanding of communication theory to enhance your communication skills.
Browse courses on Communication Theory
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  • Review notes or textbooks on communication theory
  • Discuss key concepts with peers or an instructor
Review previous research or articles on communication skills
Review existing knowledge on communication skills to strengthen your foundation.
Browse courses on Communication Skills
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  • Identify relevant research or articles on communication skills
  • Read and summarize key findings
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Explore online resources for improving communication skills
Expose yourself to various online resources and tools to enhance your communication abilities.
Show steps
  • Search for online courses, articles, and videos on communication skills
  • Identify reputable sources and resources
  • Follow online tutorials and practice exercises
Practice writing persuasive essays
Practice applying argumentation theory to improve your persuasive writing skills.
Show steps
  • Read sample persuasive essays
  • Identify the key elements of each essay
  • Write your own persuasive essay
  • Have your essay reviewed by a peer or instructor
Practice public speaking skills
Practice delivering presentations to improve your public speaking confidence and skills.
Browse courses on Public Speaking
Show steps
  • Find a topic you are passionate about
  • Research your topic and write a speech
  • Practice your speech in front of a mirror or with a friend
  • Deliver your speech to a small audience
  • Get feedback from your audience and make improvements
Join a communication skills study group
Engage with peers in a collaborative environment to enhance your communication skills through discussions and feedback.
Show steps
  • Find or create a study group with like-minded individuals
  • Set regular meeting times and discuss communication-related topics
  • Share ideas, experiences, and provide constructive feedback
Create a communication skills portfolio
Build a portfolio to showcase your communication skills by compiling and reflecting on your work.
Show steps
  • Collect examples of your writing, presentations, and other communication materials
  • Reflect on your successes and areas for improvement
  • Create a digital or physical portfolio to showcase your skills

Career center

Learners who complete Communication skills for engineering scholars will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Grant Writer
Grant writers are responsible for writing grant proposals to secure funding for non-profit organizations, businesses, and individuals. This course can help you develop the skills you need to write compelling grant proposals that clearly articulate your project goals and objectives. You will learn how to structure your proposal, write a powerful executive summary, and get ahead of the reviewer.
Technical Writer
Technical writers create instruction manuals, documentation, and other materials that explain complex technical information to a non-technical audience. This course can help you develop the skills you need to write clear, concise, and accurate technical documents. You will learn how to organize your information effectively, and you will gain practice in writing for a variety of audiences.
Speechwriter
Speechwriters are responsible for crafting speeches for public figures, such as politicians, business leaders, and celebrities. This course can help you develop the skills you need to write clear, persuasive, and engaging speeches that effectively communicate your message. You will learn how to use rhetorical devices to make your speeches more impactful, and you will gain practice in public speaking so that you can deliver your speeches with confidence.
Marketing Manager
Marketing managers are responsible for developing and executing marketing campaigns that promote products or services. This course can help you develop the skills you need to create effective marketing materials, such as brochures, website content, and social media posts. You will also learn how to track the results of your marketing campaigns and make adjustments as needed.
Public relations manager
Public relations managers are responsible for managing the public image of organizations. This course can help you develop the skills you need to build and maintain strong relationships with the media, the public, and other stakeholders. You will learn how to write press releases, give media interviews, and manage social media accounts.
Sales Manager
Sales managers are responsible for leading and motivating sales teams to achieve their targets. This course can help you develop the skills you need to communicate effectively with your team, set clear goals, and track progress. You will also learn how to negotiate contracts and close deals.
Project Manager
Project managers are responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects. This course can help you develop the skills you need to manage projects effectively, including how to set goals, create timelines, and track progress. You will also learn how to communicate with stakeholders and resolve conflicts.
Business Analyst
Business analysts are responsible for analyzing business needs and developing solutions to improve processes and systems. This course can help you develop the skills you need to communicate effectively with stakeholders, gather and analyze data, and make recommendations for improvement.
Consultant
Consultants provide advice and guidance to organizations on a variety of topics, such as business strategy, marketing, and finance. This course can help you develop the skills you need to communicate effectively with clients, understand their needs, and develop solutions that meet their objectives.
Lawyer
Lawyers represent clients in legal matters, such as criminal defense, civil litigation, and corporate law. This course can help you develop the skills you need to communicate effectively with clients, judges, and other attorneys. You will also learn how to research legal issues, write legal documents, and argue cases in court.
Doctor
Doctors diagnose and treat patients with illnesses and injuries. This course can help you develop the skills you need to communicate effectively with patients and their families, understand their medical needs, and provide them with the best possible care.
Teacher
Teachers educate students in a variety of subjects, such as math, science, and history. This course can help you develop the skills you need to communicate effectively with students, create lesson plans, and manage a classroom.
Social Worker
Social workers help people cope with difficult life situations, such as poverty, illness, and addiction. This course can help you develop the skills you need to communicate effectively with clients, understand their needs, and provide them with the support they need.
Journalist
Journalists gather and report on news stories for newspapers, magazines, and websites. This course can help you develop the skills you need to communicate effectively with sources, write compelling articles, and meet deadlines.
Librarian
Librarians help people find and access information. This course can help you develop the skills you need to communicate effectively with patrons, organize and manage library collections, and promote literacy.

Reading list

We've selected eight 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 Communication skills for engineering scholars.
Writing and Speaking in the Technical Professions is another popular textbook that covers the essential elements of technical communication. It emphasizes the importance of clear and concise writing, effective speaking, and visual aids.
Technically Write! practical guide to writing technical documents, such as proposals, reports, and presentations. It provides clear and concise instructions, with examples and exercises to help engineers improve their writing skills.
Argumentation Theory and Practice foundational text in argumentation theory. It provides a comprehensive overview of the field, including the different types of arguments, the standards of good argumentation, and the fallacies to avoid.
Writing Science practical guide to writing scientific papers and proposals. It provides step-by-step instructions on how to structure your writing, write effectively, and get your work published.
Rhetoric classic work on rhetoric by Aristotle. It is one of the most influential works on the subject ever written, and it provides a foundation for understanding the art of persuasion.
The Elements of Style classic guide to writing style. It provides concise and clear advice on how to write effectively.
This introductory book on scientific communication, written in Italian, offers a comprehensive overview of the topic. It covers writing scientific papers and proposals, as well as presenting research findings in oral presentations and posters.
This French book on argumentation and discourse analysis provides a detailed analysis of the different strategies of persuasion used in discourse.

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