Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Unit Guide
Trimester 2 2023-2024
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FOU105 BUSINESS COMMUNICATION
TRIMESTER 1 2022-2023
CONTACTS
Mr.Tyler James Parnel
Main Lecturer
Email: Tyler.Parnel@isb.edu.vn
Ms. Tran Linh Nhi (Ms.Lynn)
Associate Lecturer Email:nhi.tranlinh@isb.edu.vn
Phone: 0797271282 (Zalo/iMess)
Nguyen Truong An
Program Administrator Phone: 028 54465555 (Ext: 168)
Email: an.nguyen@isb.edu.vn
Business communications is an extremely practical subject. You will find the material we study
often relates to situations you have already experienced, enhancing your appreciation of these
experiences, and helping you understand the principles of communication and how it is practiced in
the business environment. This course provides you with a mix of principles to analyze business
communication, and practical tools to improve your communication skills. It also develops your
formal skills in writing business reports, letters and email, and spoken word presentations. The way
we understand communication affects our ability to reflect on and improve our own
communication practices.
The course is delivered in two parallel tracks: Business Communication Principles and Skills Practice
and Business Communication in Application.
● Main Lecturer will be in charge of Business Communication Principles and Skills Practice with 10
sessions.
● Associate Lecturer will be in charge of Business Communication in Application with 5 sessions.
Module 1 (ULO 1) introduces you to distinct communication theories. Practical exercises encourage
you to consider how these theories apply to business situations. The module also covers the
complexity of communication in business, including how we use tone, expression and language.
Module 2 (ULO 2) challenges you to consider how your own perspectives, culture and external
influences shape the way we communicate with others. We will also introduce non-verbal
communication, how we send and receive vast amounts of information, without having to say a
word.
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FOU105 BUSINESS COMMUNICATION
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We switch from the personal to the interpersonal in Module 3 (ULO 3), focusing on two of the most
common communication practices for individuals in business, listening and having formal
discussions. You will be asked to reflect on your own practices, and be given the opportunity to
analyze case studies.
These listening and interview skills will serve you well in Module 4 (ULOs 3, 4, 5), where we focus
specifically on teams and meetings. We will consider the different roles we play in groups, common
experiences of teams, and how to effectively contribute to our teams, regardless of whether or not
we have a formal leadership role. You will be asked to identify your strengths and areas of
improvement in group work. You will also be asked to fulfil practical roles in business meetings, and
recognize the ways different skill sets contribute to the smooth functioning of a team, before
putting your knowledge and skills to the test.
Models, guidelines, and advice on formal business communication are covered from a practical
perspective in Module 5 (ULOs 3, 4, 5). How should emails be written in a business context? What
strategies can we use to make our presentations engaging and more memorable? How do we
produce business reports that our audiences appreciate? And how do we make sure our ideas are
understood?
Use the principles and skills you practiced in the previous five modules in Module 6 (ULOs 3, 4) as it
guides you through the process of job hunting, from job researching to writing effective application
letter, curriculum vitae and managing the interview process. Two essential skills for job hunting –
building a personal brand and networking – are also introduced and practiced maximizing your
future employability.
As you work through this course, we encourage you to share your real-life communication
experiences with other students, to extend your knowledge.
Welcome to the fascinating world of business communications. We look forward to making the
journey with you.
PRE-REQUISITES
None
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FOU105 BUSINESS COMMUNICATION
TRIMESTER 1 2023-2024
Assessment Information
UNIT LEARNING OUTCOMES
The table below outlines the unit learning outcomes (ULOs) for this unit. Upon completing this unit, you will be
able to:
1. Apply theories and observations of communication to academic business studies 🗹 PLO1🗹 PLO2
◻ PLO3 🗹 PLO4
and real-world business communication challenges.
🗹 PLO5 ◻ PLO6
◻ PLO7
◻ PLO1◻ PLO2
2. Explain how personal factors and behaviors can influence the communication
process.
◻ PLO3 🗹 PLO4
◻ PLO5 🗹 PLO6
🗹 PLO7
◻ PLO1🗹 PLO2
3. Apply effective interpersonal communication skills to meet specific objectives in
business situations
◻ PLO3 ◻ PLO4
🗹 PLO5 ◻ PLO6
◻ PLO7
4. Demonstrate effective written and oral communication skills using currently 🗹 PLO1🗹 PLO2
🗹 PLO3 ◻ PLO4
recognized business formats and appropriate technologies.
◻ PLO5 ◻ PLO6
◻ PLO7
◻ PLO1◻ PLO2
5. Analyze the interactions between communication practice and organizational
performance.
🗹 PLO3 🗹 PLO4
🗹 PLO5 🗹 PLO6
◻ PLO7
In line with its focus on assuring your skills in ULOs 1-5 above, this unit is also responsible for
introducing/developing/assuring the following program-level learning outcomes (PLOs):
1. Knowledge & Application
Solid understanding and competency of appropriate application of business discipline-specific
knowledge.
2. Communication
Competency in professional written and oral communication suited to multiple audiences and
contexts.
3. Teamwork
Effective collaboration in teamwork or other tasks in organizational settings.
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FOU105 BUSINESS COMMUNICATION
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4. Critical thinking
Critical thinking through appropriate observing, analyzing and reasoning, etc.
5. Problem solving
Effective and constructive problem solving.
6. Ethics
An ethical perspective, including an understanding of the ethical responsibilities of
organizations.
7. Cultural Diversity
A global mindset, including an understanding of the different business settings, the ability to
identify foreign market potentials, to diagnose cross-cultural communication problems and
propose appropriate solutions.
Final marks and grades are subject to confirmation by the School Assessment Committees which
may scale, modify or otherwise amend the marks and grades for the unit, as may be required by
University policies.
▪ Attend 80 per cent of class time. See attendance requirements in the section of class policies and
rules below.
ASSESSMENT SUMMARY
🗹 ULO3 ◻ ULO4
opportunity to showcase your experiences
and learning in this unit. It builds a strong
◻ ULO5
foundation and profiles your
communication skills in relation to your
business studies and careers. It is also
designed to help you reflect upon, in a
regular and integrated manner, the ways in
which that learning has affected you and
how you will utilize it in the future.
◻ ULO1 ◻ ULO2
3. Practical Workshop – Associate Lecturer 35% In-class sessions
Practical workshops provide you with
opportunities to apply interpersonal 🗹 ULO3 🗹
communication skills, in oral and written ULO4
◻ ULO5
form, in a variety of simulated business
situations using typical business
communication formats, channels and
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FOU105 BUSINESS COMMUNICATION
TRIMESTER 1 2023-2024
🗹 ULO3 ◻ ULO4
opportunity to compare and contrast Task 2 and session 15
theories of communication with real-world 20% (Proposal)
communication practice, and to analyze 🗹 ULO5
how they impact organizational
performance. It is also designed to help
you work in teams, be resourceful, gain
confidence in communicating in business,
and reflect upon ways in which the
experience has affected you and how you
will utilize it in the future. You will use
research, observations, and interviews to
carry out your projects as a team, and
complete the following tasks:
Task 1. Report (Team)
Task 2. Proposal (Team)
- Participation includes class attendance and active involvement in class, including without
limitation asking pertinent questions and contributing remarks showing your understanding
of the topics being discussed.
- The quality of your contributions is what counts, not how often you raise your hand.
- Any unexcused absence will result in deduction of your participation grade.
- See “Attendance” Policy at page 16 for more details.
▪ Due: All presentation slides will need to be finished in class and submit via eLearning
before next class starts.
▪ Submission:
- Submission is conducted via E-learning platform only. No submission via email is
accepted in all cases.
- The submission file must be strictly named in the right format: A1_ [Team
Number]_[Class code]. For example: A1_Team 1_BC1
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The lecturers reserve the right not to mark any submission which does not meet the basic
requirements.
▪ Marking criteria and standards: To be updated
⮚ Due (if any): 11:59 PM, the day immediately prior to the session (as assigned and instructed in
advance by lecturers).
⮚ Submission (if any):
● The soft version of the slides and all associated YouTube video links must be submitted
via E-learning platform in the right format.
● Cover page in the right format of ISB.BBUS program
● All text in font Calibri (Body), size 12, line spacing 1.5.
● Any failure to complete one of the assigned group works will lead to ZERO in this
assessment, even if the team successfully complete all the other group works.
● The submission must be strictly named in the right format: [Workshop]_[Group
number/Name]_[Class code]
For example: Workshop 1_Group1/Nguyen Van A_BC1
The lecturers reserve the right not to mark any submission which is not properly named.
Marking criteria and standards: To be updated
Submission is conducted via E-learning platform only. No submission via email is accepted in all
cases. Some basic requirements include:
- Cover page in the right format of ISB.BBUS program
- Page numbering must be well inserted.
- All text in font Calibri (Body), size 11, line spacing 1.5.
- Proper referencing in APA7 format.
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FOU105 BUSINESS COMMUNICATION
TRIMESTER 1 2023-2024
Submission is conducted via E-learning platform only. No submission via email is accepted in all
cases. Some basic requirements include:
- Cover page in the right format of ISB.BBUS program
- Page numbering must be well inserted
- All text in font Calibri (Body), size 11, line spacing 1.5.
- Proper referencing in APA7 format.
- The submission must be strictly named in the right format: A3 Proposal_[Team
number]_[Student Full Name]_[Class code]. For example: A3 Proposal_Team 1_Nguyen
Van A_BC-49-1
The lecturers reserve the right not to mark any submission which does not meet the
requirements.
Scoring guide/Rubric
Rubric 1: Individual or Group workshop:
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TRIMESTER 1 2023-2024
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Fairly adequate,
Diverse and Lack of most
Adequate, as yet without 1
10 more than important
required important
required subject matters
subject matter
Contents
Accurate and Fairly accurate Mostly
logical yet with and logical yet mistaken, with
Accurate and
20 some minor with 1 many important
logical
mis- important mis- mis-
interpretations interpretation interpretations
The
Charismatic Coherent but
presentation is
lead of the rather not as
difficult to Unclear
conversation charismatic
10 follow but can presentation
with highly presentation
Presentation highlight the and arguments
convincing Convincing
skills main
arguments arguments
(individual) arguments
Have total
Have some
control of the
control of the Finish on time
Timing and presentation Over the time
20 presentation but a lack of
coordination flow and timing limit
but sometimes coordination
with great
uncoordinated
coordination
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TRIMESTER 1 2023-2024
justification for
difficult
difficult
questions
questions
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FOU105 BUSINESS COMMUNICATION
TRIMESTER 1 2022-2023
Teaching Activities
LEARNING RESOURCES
●Braun, K., Locker, K.O., & Kaczmarek, S.K. (2016). Business communication: Building critical skills. 6th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill
Higher Education.
Textbook
●Cheesebro, T., O’Connor, L., & Rios, F. (2010). Communicating in the Workplace. 1st ed. USA: Prentice Hall
E-learning http://e-learning.isb.edu.vn/
SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES
Activities
Lecture, Discussion
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Activities
Lecture, Discussion, Skills Practice
3 Topic 5.2 Module 18 (Braun et al)
Mr. Tyler Verbal and visual supports
Online
Activities
Lecture, Discussion, Business Project coaching
4 Topic 5.3 Module 5 (Braun et al)
Mr. Tyler Designing documents, slides and screens
Online
Topic 5.4 Ch 13 (Cheesebro et al)
Making presentations
Activities
Lecture, Discussion, Skills Practice
5 Topic 5.5 Module 13, 14 (Braun et al)
Mr. Tyler Researching
Activities
Lecture, Discussion, Skills Practice
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TRIMESTER 1 2023-2024
Topic 2.2
Diversity
Ch 3 (Cheesebro et al)
Activities
Lecture, Discussion, Skills Practice
Module 3:
Internpersonal communication in business
7 Topic 3.1 Ch 5 (Cheesebro et al)
Mr. Tyler Listening and responding
Activities
Lecture, Discussion, Business Project coaching
Activities
Lecture, Discussion, Skills Practice
Activities
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FOU105 BUSINESS COMMUNICATION
TRIMESTER 1 2023-2024
Activities
Lecture, Discussion, Skills Practice
Module 6:
Job Hunting
11 Topic 6.1 Module 23 (Braun et al)
Ms. Lynn Researching the job market
Topic 6.2
Personal branding Uploaded on elearning
Activities
Lecture, Discussion, Business Project coaching
12 Topic 6.3 Module 24, 25 (Braun et al)
Ms.Lynn Creating persuasive resumés, cover letters and
job applications
Activities
Lecture, Discussion, Skills Practice
13 Module 4:
Mr. Tyler Working and communicating in teams
Topic 4.1 Module 20 (Braun et al)
Working and writing in teams
Topic 4.2
Planning, conducting, and recording meetings Module 21 (Braun et al)
Activities
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FOU105 BUSINESS COMMUNICATION
TRIMESTER 1 2023-2024
Activities
Lecture, Discussion, Skills Practice
15 Topic 4.3 Ch 7 (Cheesebro et al)
Mr. Tyler Conflict resolution
Activities
Lecture, Discussion, Skills Practice
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Referencing
Plagiarism
Student assignments are to contain original content created by the students. Assignments will be
rejected if they include plagiarized content or contain excessive amounts of quoted/cited material
and minimal original content. Students will receive a grade of ZERO (0%) for any assignments
rejected for this reason. Written assignments WILL BE checked by the lecturer with Turnitin.com, an
online plagiarism-checking tool.
Sources
Furthermore, your reference to support your statements must be from a reliable source, such as
textbooks, additional reading materials, and reference books. However, many websites are not
reliable sources. Examples are Wikipedia.org, about.com, and ask.com. If you are not sure if a
reference is acceptable or not, please contact the lecturer.
Referencing & Citation
The Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (APA) 6th ed., will serve as the
primary reference materials for all students. Therefore, all papers must be submitted in APA
format. The mechanics of student papers and work will be evaluated, as well as the content.
Submission
Assignment cover sheet
▪ Group assignments are to be submitted with a Group Assignment Cover Sheet as well as a Peer
Evaluation Form depending on the request of unit instructor.
▪ Assignment cover sheets and the evaluation form can be located on MyISB system
▪ Students are advised to keep a copy of all assignments submitted for marking.
Submission style
Assignments are expected to achieve a professional standard:
▪ Use a simple clear format, suitable for a report to senior management in a commercial organization.
Submission method
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TRIMESTER 1 2023-2024
Soft copy: submitted electronically via E-learning system by 11:59 PM on the due date (Suggested
title: Student name_Unitname_Name of Assignment).
Attendance
Students are required to attend a minimum of 80% of all classes (which normally 12/15 sessions).
Other cases equating to an absence:
▪ The excused absence is only approved by the lecturers in certain circumstances. For
example, if a student has serious sickness, a prescription from a doctor in the hospital is
needed to prove it. Cases that are not approved such as: damaged vehicles, mild illness,
returning hometown, family events.
▪ Leaving prior to the scheduled end time without the permission of the lecturer
If you are unable to attend any session, please email to the lecturer of that sessions. Any excused
absence need sent via email to lecturer at least 24 hours with evidence to get approval. No last-
minutes excused absence will be accepted.
IMPORTANT: If a student absent more than 3 sessions, the Business Project Report and Proposal
will be marked ZERO individually.
▪ Cell phones will be turned off or switched to vibrate mode before class starts.
▪ No phone calls or text messaging are allowed inside classroom during class time.
▪ Portable listening and/or music devices may not be operated in the classroom.
▪ Headphones and/or ear buds of any type may not be worn while in the classroom whether
operating or not.
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▪ Laptop and other electronic devices are not permitted unless specifically authorized by the lecturer
exclusively for note taking and doing class work.
IMPORTANT: If you are in violation of these policies, you will be excused from class and an
absence will be assessed.
Email etiquette
Your lecturers receive many emails each day. In order to enable them to respond to your emails
appropriately and in a timely fashion, students are asked to follow basic requirements of
professional communication.
Your emails should:
▪ Have a concise and descriptive title, including the class and name of the unit you are enquiring about
▪ Use appropriate tone and language, proof-read what is written in the email before sending it.
Students should also allow 3-4 working days for a response before following up. If the matter is
legitimately urgent, you may indicate “URGENT” in the email subject header.
Make an appointment: If your email request is complex and requires a lengthy response, it may be
probably best to make an appointment with your lecturer/instructor to meet in person.
▪ Cheating on an exam
▪ Collaborating with others on work to be presented, if contrary to the stated rules of the course
▪ Submitting, if contrary to the rules of the course, work previously submitted in another course
▪ Knowingly and intentionally assisting another student in any of the above actions, including
assistance in an arrangement whereby work, classroom performance, examination, or other activity
is submitted or performed by a person other than the student under whose name the work is
submitted or performed
▪ Plagiarizing
IMPORTANT:
▪ First violation will result in a grade ZERO (0%) for that assignment.
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Additional information
This unit guide may be revised at the discretion of the Academic Department with approval from
Program Academic Director and School Academic Committee where appropriate.
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