Construction English for an international learning- and workplace environment
Purpose and target
The goal of the project is to develop and test a model of teaching construction English as a part of the 2nd semester Danish architectural technology and construction management degree. Previously, it was possible to complete the programme in English, but this is currently in the process of being phased out due to the general reduction in English language training programmes and higher education degree programmes.
As a result, KEA is looking for ways to add an international component to the programme; students need to be prepared to enter an international and multi-cultural workplace and therefore need opportunities to develop relevant language skills and intercultural competency.
About the project
In the fall of 2022, a course in construction English was developed and tested. The course focused on oral interaction and collaboration. The main goal of the course is to enhance students’ confidence in speaking English and expand their vocabulary in a positive and constructive learning environment.
About the course
The course was tested in the fall of 2022. It ran as a weekly course from 7 September and ran for for 12 weeks. Following completion of the test run, the course will be evaluated with the aim of offering it to 2nd semester students in the spring of 2023. Students are expected to acquire active vocabulary in construction English, which will enable them to carry out interdisciplinary tasks, go on exchange programmes, or work at an international workplace where English is the lingua franca.
The objective for Copenhagen School of Design and Technology (KEA) is to develop and offer practical and business-oriented higher education at Bachelor (BA) and Academy Professional (AP) levels.
Contact
Iben Ørbæk Andersen, language consultant, KEA Global, iba@kea.dk
Mille Wilken Bengtsson, internationalisation consultant, KEA Global
Wynn Stewart, teacher in construction English