CFB Student Guide V1.3 PDF

COMMUNICATIONS FOR BUSINESS Student Guide CFB Student Guide V1.3  Modification History Version Revision Description V1.0 For Release V1.1 Review and Update V1.2 Updated TQT V1.3...

COMMUNICATIONS FOR BUSINESS Student Guide CFB Student Guide V1.3  Modification History Version Revision Description V1.0 For Release V1.1 Review and Update V1.2 Updated TQT V1.3 Reviewed and updated GLH © NCC Education Limited, 2020 All Rights Reserved The copyright in this document is vested in NCC Education Limited. The document must not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, or used for manufacturing purposes, except with the prior written permission of NCC Education Limited and then only on condition that this notice is included in any such reproduction. Published by: NCC Education Limited, The Towers, Towers Business Park, Wilmslow Road, Didsbury, Manchester M20 2EZ, UK. Tel: +44 (0) 161 438 6200 Fax: +44 (0) 161 438 6240 Email: [email protected] http://www.nccedu.com Page 2 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Title Here CONTENTS Module Overview and Objectives.................................................................................................. 5 Learning Outcomes........................................................................................................................ 5 Syllabus........................................................................................................................................... 6 Resources....................................................................................................................................... 7 Textbooks........................................................................................................................................ 7 Supplementary Textbooks..................................................................................................... 7 Additional Resources............................................................................................................. 7 Pedagogic Approach...................................................................................................................... 8 Lectures................................................................................................................................ 8 Tutorials................................................................................................................................ 8 Private Study......................................................................................................................... 8 Assessment..................................................................................................................................... 8 Topic 1: Effective Communication in Business...................................................................... 9 1.1 Learning Objectives...................................................................................................... 9 1.2 Timings......................................................................................................................... 9 1.3 Tutorial Exercises....................................................................................................... 10 1.4 Private Study.............................................................................................................. 11 Topic 2: Writing Business Messages I................................................................................... 13 2.1 Learning Objectives.................................................................................................... 13 2.2 Timings....................................................................................................................... 13 2.3 Tutorial Exercises....................................................................................................... 14 2.4 Private Study.............................................................................................................. 15 Topic 3: Writing Business Messages II.................................................................................. 17 3.1 Learning Objectives.................................................................................................... 17 3.2 Timings....................................................................................................................... 17 3.3 Tutorial Exercises....................................................................................................... 18 3.4 Private Study.............................................................................................................. 20 Topic 4: Reports and Proposals I - Planning......................................................................... 22 4.1 Learning Objectives.................................................................................................... 22 4.2 Timings....................................................................................................................... 22 4.3 Tutorial Exercises....................................................................................................... 23 4.4 Private Study.............................................................................................................. 24 Topic 5: Reports and Proposals II - Writing.......................................................................... 26 5.1 Learning Objectives.................................................................................................... 26 5.2 Timings....................................................................................................................... 26 5.3 Tutorial Exercises....................................................................................................... 27 Page 3 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Title Here 5.4 Private Study.............................................................................................................. 28 Topic 6: Visual Communication............................................................................................. 30 6.1 Learning Objectives.................................................................................................... 30 6.2 Timings....................................................................................................................... 30 6.3 Tutorial Exercises....................................................................................................... 31 6.4 Private Study.............................................................................................................. 32 Topic 7: Working in Teams..................................................................................................... 34 7.1 Learning Objectives.................................................................................................... 34 7.2 Timings....................................................................................................................... 34 7.3 Tutorial Exercises....................................................................................................... 35 7.4 Private Study.............................................................................................................. 37 Topic 8: Business Meetings................................................................................................... 39 8.1 Learning Objectives.................................................................................................... 39 8.2 Timings....................................................................................................................... 39 8.3 Tutorial Exercises....................................................................................................... 40 8.4 Private Study.............................................................................................................. 41 Topic 9: Delivering Effective Oral Presentations.................................................................. 43 9.1 Learning Objectives.................................................................................................... 43 9.2 Timings....................................................................................................................... 43 9.3 Tutorial Exercises....................................................................................................... 44 9.4 Private Study.............................................................................................................. 45 Topic 10: Listening.................................................................................................................... 47 10.1 Learning Objectives.................................................................................................... 47 10.2 Timings....................................................................................................................... 47 10.3 Tutorial Exercises....................................................................................................... 48 10.4 Private Study.............................................................................................................. 49 Topic 11: Non-Verbal Communication..................................................................................... 51 11.1 Learning Objectives.................................................................................................... 51 11.2 Timings....................................................................................................................... 51 11.3 Tutorial Exercises....................................................................................................... 52 11.4 Private Study.............................................................................................................. 53 Topic 12: CV writing and interview techniques....................................................................... 55 12.1 Learning Objectives.................................................................................................... 55 12.2 Timings....................................................................................................................... 55 12.3 Tutorial Exercises....................................................................................................... 56 12.4 Private Study.............................................................................................................. 57 Page 4 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Overview Module Overview and Objectives This module is designed to help students appreciate and understand the different types of business communication and their importance in an international context. The module will discuss the basic principles of communications within an international context from three key perspectives: written communication, visual communication and presentations, and non-verbal communication. Topics to be covered will include inter alia: effective communication, business messages, team work and meetings, oral presentations, listening, report writing, CV writing, interview techniques, etc. Learning Outcomes Learning Outcomes Assessment Criteria 1. Prepare business messages I. Use the three-step writing process to create written and reports messages II. Create well-organised, written messages in a variety of media III. Review message content for clarity, readability and appropriateness IV. Create email messages that obey established conventions 2. Present quantitative data to I. Use charts, graphs and figures to convey quantitative convey information data 3. Deliver effective I. Prepare and use visual aids to support a presentation presentations II. Design a presentation to account for its intended audience III. Discuss the components of an effective presentation 4. Contribute to business I. Explain the role and purpose of different meetings meetings II. Document a meeting effectively III. Identify the advantage and problems of technology- enabled meetings 5. Understand theories of I. Identify different types of team working in teams II. Discuss the possible profiles of team members III. Describe the stages of the group/team lifecycle Page 5 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Title Here 6. Use non-verbal skills and IV. Discuss the principles of body language listen effectively V. Discuss the principles of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) VI. Explain different types of listening VII. Describe the differences between effective and ineffective listening Syllabus Syllabus Topic No Title Proportion Content 1 Effective 1/12 The importance of different types of communication in communication in business business 2 Writing business 1/12 Understanding the purpose and selecting an messages I appropriate message type 3 Writing business 1/12 Creating, editing and communicating the messages II written business message 4 Reports and 1/12 Understanding and planning different types of proposals I reports 5 Reports and 1/12 Preparing and writing different types of reports proposals II 6 Visual 1/12 Communicating continuous and discrete data communication through appropriate charts, graphs and figures 7 Working in teams 1/12 Advantages and disadvantages of teamwork and effective group communication 8 Business meetings 1/12 Planning, organising and running business meetings 9 Oral presentations 1/12 Planning, creating and delivering effective presentations 10 Effective listening 1/12 Becoming an effective listener and learning how to listen 11 Non-verbal 1/12 Reading and using non-verbal communication communication as an effective business tool 12 CV writing and 1/12 Preparing a winning and CV and succeeding interview techniques at interviews Page 6 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Title Here Resources 1. Lecturer Guide: This guide contains notes for lecturers on the organisation of each topic, and suggested use of the resources. It also contains all of the suggested exercises and model answers. 2. PowerPoint Slides: These are presented for each topic for use in the lectures. They contain many examples which can be used to explain the key concepts. 3. Student Guide: This contains topic overviews and all of the suggested exercises. Textbooks Supplementary Textbooks The following textbooks provide supplementary reading for this module and should be available in the centre’s library: Payne and Whittaker (2006), “Developing Essential Study Skills”, 2nd Edition, FT Prentice Hall, ISBN: 978-1405840873 Cottrell, S. (2008), “The Study Skills Handbook”, 3rd Edition, Pallgrave Macmillan, ISBN: 978- 0230573055 Price and Maier (2007) “Effective Study Skills: Essential Skills for Academic and Career Success”, Prentice Hall, ISBN: 978-1405840736 Cameron, S. (2009), “The Business Students Handbook: Skills for Study and Employment”, 5th Edition, FT Prentice Hall, ISBN: 978-0273730712 Currie, D. (2005) “Developing and Applying Study Skills: Writing Assignments, Dissertations and Management Reports” Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, ISBN: 978-1843980643 Rogerson, S. “Project Skills Handbook” Chartwell-Bratt, ISBN: 978-9144304816 Northedge, A. (2005) “The Good Study Guide” Open University, ISBN: 978-0749259747 Additional Resources Study skills web sites: http://www.bized.co.uk/reference/studyskills/index.htm http://www.how-to-study.com/ http://www.open.ac.uk/skillsforstudy/ http://www.mindtools.com/page8.html Page 7 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Title Here Pedagogic Approach Suggested Learning Hours Guided Learning Hours Assessment Private Study: Total: Lectures: Tutorial: Seminar: Laboratory: 24 24 - - 30 hours 72 150 (3,000-word assignment) The teacher-led time for this module is comprised of lectures and tutorials. The breakdown of the hours for each topic is given in the Topic Notes which follow. Lectures The PowerPoint slides are presented for use during this time. Students should also be encouraged to be active during this time and to practise the concepts covered. Tutorials These are designed to deal with the questions arising from the lectures and private study sessions. Private Study In addition to the taught portion of the module, students will also be expected to undertake private study. Exercises are provided in the Student Guide for students to complete during this time. Teachers will need to set deadlines for the completion of this work. Assessment This module will be assessed by means of an examination. Page 8 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Topic 1 Topic 1: Effective Communication in Business 1.1 Learning Objectives This lecture is designed to introduce you to the core concepts of Effective Communication in Business. The lecture should last for approximately 2 hours, but up to 3 hours may be used if required, as this is the first lecture in the series. On completion of the topic, you will be able to: Understand the importance of communication in business Understand the process of communication in business Use communication technology Discuss ethics in business communication 1.2 Timings Lectures: 2 hours Private Study: 6 hours Tutorials: 2 hours Page 9 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Title Here 1.3 Tutorial Exercises The time allowance for tutorials in this topic is 2 hours. Exercise 1: Group Exercise Work in groups of about five. Select a website for a retailer with which you are familiar from your own country: How clear is the marketing message this retailer is sending to its customers? Which social networking sites does this organisation use to communicate with its customers? Do you think these are an effective means of communication for this organisation? Why, or why not? Justify your answer. How effective would you say this website is at communicating with customers? Give examples and reasons for your decision. Do you think this retailer is using technology effectively in its communication with customers? Why, or why not? Justify your answer. Would you regard this retailer’s web site as ethical, in terms of its communication with customers? Why, or why not? Justify your answer. Record your findings. Make notes! Exercise 2: Class Findings Each group take turns to present your findings from Exercise 1. Be prepared to answer questions from the audience. Make notes! Exercise 3: Feedback As a tutor-led whole class group, discuss the results of Exercisess 1 and 2. What have you learned from these activities? Make notes! Page 10 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Title Here 1.4 Private Study The time allocation for private study in this topic is expected to be 6 hours. Exercise 1: You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Read the “communication skills” article available at: http://www.mindtools.com/CommSkll/CommunicationIntro.htm Use the “communication process model” discussed in the article to analyse any time when you have tried to communicate with a colleague/friend/family member and the message was misunderstood, i.e. there was “mis-communication” of a message. What went wrong? Which part of the model explains this? What can you do differently next time to make sure this does not happen again? What have you learned from this exercise? Exercise 2: Use the results from the activities in the lecture, tutorial and exercise 1 above to record your personal skills, knowledge and understanding in the development planner table below. You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Notes for ‘Confidence Level’ completion: (1 = Very Unsure, 5 = Very Confident) Effective Communication in Business Action Plan Developing Skill, Confidence Level 1-5 Plans to Improve Understanding and Knowledge To what extent do you understand the benefits of effective communication To what extent do you understand issues of communicating in an organisational setting Page 11 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Title Here To what extent do you understand the difference between, and the roles of, vertical and horizontal communication in business To what extent do you understand barriers to communication and how to overcome them To what extent do you understand the impact of Information Technology on business communication To what extent do you appreciate the importance of acting ethically when communicating in business situations To what extent do you understand the importance of legal compliance then communicating in business situations This activity only has value if you follow up your action plan. Use approximately 5.5 hours of your private study time to begin to develop your understanding and knowledge of one or more of the above areas. Page 12 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Topic 2 Topic 2: Writing Business Messages I 2.1 Learning Objectives This topic provides an overview of the core concepts of Writing Business Messages. This is the first of two lectures on this topic. On completion of the topic, you will be able to: Appreciate the three-step writing process Understand their audience Select the correct media Organise a message Compose a message 2.2 Timings Lectures: 2 hours Private Study: 6 hours Tutorials: 2 hours Page 13 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Title Here 2.3 Tutorial Exercises The time allowance for tutorials in this topic is 2 hours. Exercise 1: Group Exercise Work in groups of about five. Use a flipchart or whiteboard or computer to prepare an advertisement for a local business with which you are familiar – be sure to use the advice and suggestions included in the lecture. Ensure you are sending a clear marketing message to customers Ensure you are honest in your advertisement Ensure you are acting ethically in your advertisement Record your findings. Make notes! 60 minutes Exercise 2: Class Findings Each group take turns to present your findings from Exercise 1. Be prepared to answer questions from the audience. Make notes! 30 minutes Exercise 3: Feedback As a tutor-led whole class group, discuss the results of Exercises1 and 2. What have you learned from these activities? Make notes! 30 minutes Page 14 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Title Here 2.4 Private Study The time allocation for private study in this topic is expected to be 6 hours. Exercise 1: You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Read the “writing skills” article available at: http://www.mindtools.com/CommSkll/WritingSkills.htm Consider how one might use the “AIDA” model (follow the link to this in the article) to prepare a written communication that is an advertisement or marketing promotion for a new business opportunity of your choice. What might be the key “message”? How does using this model help you to promote this message? What might be the pitfalls you need to avoid when using AIDA? What have you learned from this exercise? Exercise 2: Personal Development Use the results from the activities in the lecture, tutorial and exercise 1 above to record your personal skills, knowledge and understanding in the development planner table below. You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Notes for ‘Confidence Level’ completion: (1 = Very Unsure, 5 = Very Confident) Writing Business Messages I Action Plan Developing Skill, Confidence Level 1-5 Plans to Improve Understanding and Knowledge To what extent do you understand the Three-Step writing process? To what extent do you understand the need to develop a profile of the intended audience Page 15 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Title Here To what extent do you understand the advantages and disadvantages of the different media (oral, written, visual, electronic) when preparing a business message To what extent do you understand the difference between direct and indirect approach to message delivery To what extent do you understand how to outline the content of a business message To what extent do you appreciate the importance of establishing your personal credibility when creating a business message To what extent do you understand the importance of message composition This activity only has value if you follow up your action plan. Use approximately 5.5 hours of your private study time to begin to develop your understanding and knowledge of one or more of the above areas. Page 16 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Topic 3 Topic 3: Writing Business Messages II 3.1 Learning Objectives This topic provides an overview of the core concepts of Writing Business Messages. This is the second of two lectures on this topic. The lecture should last for approximately 2 hours. On completion of the topic, you will be able to: Use the three-step writing process Review the content for readability Edit and proofread the content for clarity and readability Use good practice in email production 3.2 Timings Lectures: 2 hours Private Study: 6 hours Tutorials: 2 hours Page 17 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Title Here 3.3 Tutorial Exercises The time allowance for tutorials in this topic is 2 hours. Exercise 1: Group Exercise Work in groups of about two or three. Read the following letter* Fine Foods Ltd. 10 Bridge Street London SW10 5TG Hello Mr. Roger Jones: I got the letter you sent on 1st September, and the stuff about the stock control system you make. It sounds great for us, but I want to check some things before we buy it. You said the system is bang up-to-date, but what happens if you update it again soon? Do we get money off the new one? You said it takes 3 weeks to install the system – that’s too long! Can’t you do it any quicker? Hope you can reply soon, we’re in a bit of a hurry. Thanks, Janet Brown Thinking about what you have learned in the last 2 lectures, how many things can you find “wrong” with this letter? Re-write the letter as a formal business letter using the techniques and tips you have learned in the last 2 lectures 45 minutes Page 18 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Title Here Exercise 2: Class Findings Each group take turns to present your findings from Activity 1. Be prepared to answer questions from the audience. Make notes! 45 minutes Exercise 3: Feedback As a tutor-led whole class group, discuss the results of Exercises 1 and 2. What have you learned from these activities? Make notes! 30 minutes *Source: http://www.teachingenglish.org.uk/sites/teacheng/files/business_ws1.pdf Page 19 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Title Here 3.4 Private Study The time allocation for private study in this topic is expected to be 6 hours. Exercise 1: You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Read the “writing skills” article available at: http://www.mindtools.com/CommSkll/EmailCommunication.htm How does this article agree/disagree with the material presented in the lecture? Read the article on the “Rhetorical Triangle” available at: http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/RhetoricalTriangle.htm How might this tool help you in writing more effective business messages in the future? Do you see any disadvantages with this tool? Justify your answer. Exercise 2: Personal Development Use the results from the activities in the lecture, tutorial and exercise 1 above to record your personal skills, knowledge and understanding in the development planner table below. You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Notes for ‘Confidence Level’ completion: (1 = Very Unsure, 5 = Very Confident) Page 20 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Title Here Writing Business Messages II Action Plan Developing Skill, Confidence Level 1-5 Plans to Improve Understanding and Knowledge To what extent do you understand the importance of revising your business message before sending it To what extent do you understand the need to evaluate the content, style and tone of your business communications To what extent do you understand the need to review your business message for readability To what extent do you understand the need to edit your business message for clarity and readability To what extent do you appreciate the importance of proofreading a business message before sending it To what extent do you appreciate the importance of email etiquette To what extent do you understand the importance of composing business messages devoid of emotions This activity only has value if you follow up your action plan. Use approximately 5.5 hours of your private study time to begin to develop your understanding and knowledge of one or more of the above areas. Page 21 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Topic 4 Topic 4: Reports and Proposals I - Planning 4.1 Learning Objectives This topic provides an overview of the core concepts of planning for a report or a proposal. The lecture should last for approximately 2 hours. On completion of the topic, you will be able to: Define the purpose of a report Prepare and organise the content Appreciate common types of business reports and proposals Understand key factors in planning different types of reports 4.2 Timings Lectures: 2 hours Private Study: 5.5 hours Tutorials: 2 hours Page 22 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Title Here 4.3 Tutorial Exercises The time allowance for tutorials in this topic is 2 hours. Exercise 1: Group Exercise Work in groups of about five. Imagine a scenario where your college has asked you to prepare a report for management that assesses their current health and safety standards and highlights any issues that require attention: Develop an outline plan of what you need to find out Develop a plan of how you will collect the data you need Develop an outline structure for your report (what headings/sections do you need?) Use a word processor to develop your template for the report (the headings and sections of the report) Write the terms of reference for the report 60 minutes Exercise 2: Class Findings Each group take turns to present your findings from Exercise 1. Be prepared to answer questions from the audience. Make notes! 30 minutes Exercise 3: Feedback As a tutor-led whole class group, discuss the results of Exercises 1 and 2. What have you learned from these activities? Make notes! 30 minutes Page 23 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Title Here 4.4 Private Study The time allocation for private study in this topic is expected to be 6 hours. Exercise 1: You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Read the “writing skills” article available at: http://www.learnhigher.ac.uk/writing-for-university/report-writing/structure-of-reports/ Use this article help with your planning for the Health and Safety report you worked on in the tutorial? Make notes! Exercise 2: Personal Development Use the results from the activities in the lecture, tutorial and exercise 1 above to record your personal skills, knowledge and understanding in the development planner table below. You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Notes for ‘Confidence Level’ completion: (1 = Very Unsure, 5 = Very Confident) Report and Proposals I – Planning Action Plan Developing Skill, Confidence Level 1-5 Plans to Improve Understanding and Knowledge To what extent do you understand the importance of planning when considering report writing To what extent do you understand the need to define the purpose of the report before commencing work To what extent do you understand the need to prepare the work plan when planning a report To what extent do you understand the difference between a ‘report’ and a ‘proposal’ Page 24 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Title Here To what extent do you appreciate the different purposes of different types of ‘informational’ reports and ‘analytical’ reports To what extent do you appreciate the importance of planning a proposal This activity only has value if you follow up your action plan. Use approximately 5.5 hours of your private study time to begin to develop your understanding and knowledge of one or more of the above areas. Page 25 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Topic 5 Topic 5: Reports and Proposals II - Writing 5.1 Learning Objectives This topic provides an overview of the core concepts of writing a report or a proposal. The lecture should last for approximately 2 hours. On completion of the topic, you will be able to: Write an introduction to a report Write the body of a report Write the close of a report Write the content for a proposal Help readers to navigate content 5.2 Timings Lectures: 2 hours Private Study: 6 hours Tutorials: 2 hours Page 26 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Unit 7 5.3 Tutorial Exercises The time allowance for tutorials in this topic is 2 hours. Exercise 1: Group Exercise Work in the same group you worked in for Tutorial Four. In the last tutorial (Tutorial Four) you created an outline structure for a management report assessing your College’s health and safety standards. In this tutorial you are going to write the report … Use the plan from last time (what and how) and collect the data you need for the report (I suggest one person does the data collection) Use the data you have collected to fill out the report using the structure you prepared last time in the template you created on your word processor. I suggest you limit this to 2 pages of A4 paper. Remember you need an introduction, main body and close/conclusions 60 minutes Exercise 2: Class Findings Each group take turns to present your findings from Exercise 1. Be prepared to answer questions from the audience. Make notes! 30 minutes Exercise 3: Feedback As a tutor-led whole class group, discuss the results of Exercises 1 and 2. What have you learned from these activities? Make notes! 30 minutes Page 27 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Unit 7 5.4 Private Study The time allocation for private study in this topic is expected to be 6 hours. Exercise 1: You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Read the ‘Topic 5 - Report Writing’ article available in the ‘Supporting Documents Folder’. How does this template compare with the one you used for your report in Tutorials Four and Five? What are the main similarities and differences? Do you think this is a good template? Why or why not? What have you learned from this exercise? Make notes! Exercise 2: Personal Development Use the results from the activities in the lecture, tutorial and exercise 1 above to record your personal skills, knowledge and understanding in the development planner table below. You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Notes for ‘Confidence Level’ completion: (1 = Very Unsure, 5 = Very Confident) Report and Proposals II – Writing Action Plan Developing Skill, Confidence Level 1-5 Plans to Improve Understanding and Knowledge To what extent do you understand the purpose of a business report? To what extent do you understand the role of an introduction section of a report? To what extent do you understand the role of the main body section(s) of a report? To what extent do you understand the role of the conclusions and recommendations section(s) of a report? Page 28 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Unit 7 To what extent do you appreciate the purpose of the different sections of a proposal document? To what extent do you understand the difference between an appendix and an index in a report? To what extent do you understand the purpose and importance of proofreading a report or proposal? This activity only has value if you follow up your action plan. Use approximately 5.5 hours of your private study time to begin to develop your understanding and knowledge of one or more of the above areas. Page 29 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Topic 6 Topic 6: Visual Communication 6.1 Learning Objectives This topic provides an overview of the core concepts of using visuals to communicate a business message. The lecture should last for approximately 2 hours. On completion of the topic, you will be able to: Appreciate the use of visual communication Communicate using discrete data Communicate using continuous data Make appropriate use of charts, graphs and figures 6.2 Timings Lectures: 2 hours Private Study: 6 hours Tutorials: 2 hours Page 30 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3 6.3 Tutorial Exercises The time allowance for tutorials in this topic is 2 hours. Exercise 1: Group Exercise Work in groups of about four or five. In this tutorial you are going to collect some raw data and produce some visual representations of the data you collect. Collect the following data from everyone in your class – including the tutor Age in years Shoe size Favourite music artist Decide which type of visual representation would be best suited for each of these three different data sets Use a white board or flip chart the produce a different chart for each one of the three sets of data. Remember to label your work appropriately. 60 minutes Exercise 2: Class Findings Each group take turns to present your findings from Exercise 1. Be prepared to answer questions from the audience. Make notes! 30 minutes Exercise 3: Feedback As a tutor-led whole class group, discuss the results of Exercises 1 and 2. What have you learned from these activities? Make notes! 30 minutes Page 31 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3 6.4 Private Study The time allocation for private study in this topic is expected to be 6 hours. Exercise 1: You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Read the “charts and diagrams” article available at: http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/Charts_and_Diagrams.htm How does this material compare with the material presented in the lecture? What are the main similarities and differences? We didn’t discuss Venn diagrams in the lecture. In what type of visual business communication do you think Venn diagrams might be useful? Justify your answer. What have you learned from this exercise? Make notes! Exercise 2: Personal Development Use the results from the activities in the lecture, tutorial and exercise 1 above to record your personal skills, knowledge and understanding in the development planner table below. You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Notes for ‘Confidence Level’ completion: (1 = Very Unsure, 5 = Very Confident) Visual Communication Action Plan Developing Skill, Confidence Level 1-5 Plans to Improve Understanding and Knowledge To what extent do you understand the need to interpret data before presenting it? To what extent do you understand the difference between discrete and continuous data? To what extent do you understand the difference between a graph, a histogram and a chart? Page 32 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  To what extent do you understand the need to label a visual representation correctly? To what extent do you appreciate how to create a chart or graph from spreadsheet data? To what extent do you understand how to look for trends on a graph? To what extent do you understand how to extrapolate data on a graph? This activity only has value if you follow up your action plan. Use approximately 5.5 hours of your private study time to begin to develop your understanding and knowledge of one or more of the above areas. Page 33 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Topic 7 Topic 7: Working in Teams 7.1 Learning Objectives This topic provides an overview of the core concepts of team-working. On completion of the topic, you will be able to: Understand different types of groups and teams Understand different team member profiles Appreciate varying team behaviours 7.2 Timings Lectures: 2 hours Private Study: 5.5 hours Tutorials: 2 hours Page 34 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3 7.3 Tutorial Exercises The time allowance for tutorials in this topic is 2 hours. Exercise 1: Work in groups of four or five. Dr Meredith Belbin developed a theory regarding how a persons' personality determines how they perform when working in a team. She argues that teams work most effectively when there is a balance of different roles in the team … Shaper Challenges the team to improve. Action Oriented Roles Implementer Puts ideas into action. Completer Finisher Ensures thorough, timely completion. Coordinator Acts as a chairperson. People Oriented Roles Team Worker Encourages cooperation. Resource Investigator Explores outside opportunities. Plant Presents new ideas and approaches. Thought Oriented Roles Monitor-Evaluator Analyzes the options. Specialist Provides specialized skills. Source: http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newLDR_83.htm Use the table above to determine which one of the “characters” (shaper, implementer, etc.) best describes each of the members of your tutorial group. Use the results to compile a summary of your teams characteristics Do you have a good “mix” of role types in your group? To what extent does the Belbin Model help to explain how your group performs? Produce a summary of this exercise to present to the whole class. 60 minutes Page 35 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3 Exercise 2: Class Findings Each group take turns to present your findings from Exercise 1. Be prepared to answer questions from the audience. Make notes! 30 minutes Exercise 3: Feedback As a tutor-led whole class group, discuss the results of Exercises 1 and 2. What have you learned from these activities? Make notes! 30 minutes Page 36 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3 7.4 Private Study The time allocation for private study in this topic is expected to be 6 hours. Exercise 1: You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Read the “team effectiveness assessment” article available at: http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newTMM_84.htm Thinking about the team(s) you work in for the tutorials in this module, complete the team-working “online test” How did your team score? What have you learned from this exercise? Make notes! Read the “forming, storming, norming, performing” article available at: http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newLDR_86.htm What have you learned from this exercise? Make notes! Exercise 2: Personal Development Use the results from the activities in the lecture, tutorial and exercise 1 above to record your personal skills, knowledge and understanding in the development planner table below. You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Notes for ‘Confidence Level’ completion: (1 = Very Unsure, 5 = Very Confident) Working In Teams Action Plan Developing Skill, Confidence Level 1-5 Plans to Improve Understanding and Knowledge To what extent do you understand what makes a “team”? To what extent do you understand how your learning style affects your performance when working in a team? Page 37 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  To what extent do you understand how your learning style can affect other members of the team? To what extent do you understand the role of the conclusions and recommendations section(s) of a report? To what extent do you appreciate the advantages and disadvantages of team working? To what extent do you understand how conflict may arise and be resolved in a team situation? To what extent do you understand how to handle situations when teams and/or team members fail to deliver? This activity only has value if you follow up your action plan. Use approximately 5.5 hours of your private study time to begin to develop your understanding and knowledge of one or more of the above areas. Page 38 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Topic 8 Topic 8: Business Meetings 8.1 Learning Objectives This topic provides an overview of the core concepts of business meetings. The lecture should last for approximately 2 hours. On completion of the topic, you will be able to: Understand the role and purpose of meetings Appreciate the different roles of members of meetings Understand how to document a meeting Understand the pros and cons of technology enabled meetings 8.2 Timings Lectures: 2 hours Private Study: 6 hours Tutorials: 2 hours Page 39 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3 8.3 Tutorial Exercises The time allowance for tutorials in this topic is 2 hours. Exercise 1: Group Exercise Work in groups of four or five. You are going to hold a meeting to discuss how you will deal with members of your tutorial team who don’t contribute adequately to the work required for each session Allocate a Chair and Secretary for this meeting Prepare an agenda for a 5 minute meeting Hold the meeting following your agenda – remember to keep minutes Produce a summary of this exercise to present to the whole class. 60 minutes Exercise 2: Class Findings Each group take turns to present your findings from Exercise 1. Be prepared to answer questions from the audience. Make notes! 30 minutes Exercise 3: Feedback As a tutor-led whole class group, discuss the results of Exercises 1 and 2. What have you learned from these activities? Make notes! 30 minutes Page 40 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3 8.4 Private Study The time allocation for private study in this topic is expected to be 6 hours. Exercise 1: You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Read the “running effective meetings” article available at: http://www.mindtools.com/CommSkll/RunningMeetings.htm How does this article compare to the material in the lecture. What is similar or different? What have you learned from this exercise? Make notes! Imagine you have been asked to take on the role of Chair for a new group whose terms of reference is to “Improve the learning experience for students at your college” What tasks do you need to undertake before the first meeting? Make a list. What have you learned from this exercise? Make notes! Exercise 2: Personal Development Use the results from the activities in the lecture, tutorial and exercise 1 above to record your personal skills, knowledge and understanding in the development planner table below. You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Notes for ‘Confidence Level’ completion: (1 = Very Unsure, 5 = Very Confident) Business Meetings Action Plan Developing Skill, Confidence Level 1-5 Plans to Improve Understanding and Knowledge To what extent do you understand what makes a “formal meeting”? To what extent do you understand the role of the Chair in a meeting? Page 41 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  To what extent do you understand the role of the Secretary in a meeting? To what extent do you understand the role of an agenda and how to compile one? To what extent do you understand the role of minutes and how to prepare them? To what extent do you appreciate the need to talk AND listen in a meeting? To what extent do you appreciate the advantages and disadvantages of electronic mediated meetings? This activity only has value if you follow up your action plan. Use approximately 5.5 hours of your private study time to begin to develop your understanding and knowledge of one or more of the above areas. Page 42 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Topic 9 Topic 9: Delivering Effective Oral Presentations 9.1 Learning Objectives This topic provides an overview of the core concepts of delivering effective oral presentations. The lecture should last for approximately 2 hours. On completion of the topic, you will be able to: Understand how to prepare and develop materials for an effective oral presentation Appreciate how to give an effective presentation 9.2 Timings Lectures: 2 hours Private Study: 6 hours Tutorials: 2 hours Page 43 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3 9.3 Tutorial Exercises The time allowance for tutorials in this topic is 2 hours. Exercise 1: Work in groups of four or five. You are going to give 5 minute presentation entitled “How to give an effective presentation”. Plan what you want to include in your talk Prepare your introduction Prepare the main body of the talk Prepare the conclusion 60 minutes Exercise 2: Class Findings Each group take turns to present your 5 minute talk entitled “How to give an effective presentation”, which you prepared in Exercise 1. Be prepared to answer questions from the audience. Make notes! 30 minutes Exercise 3: Feedback As a tutor-led whole class group, discuss the results of Exercises 1 and 2. What have you learned from these activities? Make notes! 30 minutes Page 44 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3 9.4 Private Study The time allocation for private study in this topic is expected to be 6 hours. Exercise 1: You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Visit the “Presentation Magazine” web site: http://www.presentationmagazine.com/presentations.htm Follow the links “presentation ideas” and “presentation tips”. How does the material on this web site compare to the material in the lecture? What is similar or different? What have you learned from this exercise? Make notes! Exercise 2: Personal Development Use the results from the activities in the lecture, tutorial and exercise 1 above to record your personal skills, knowledge and understanding in the development planner table below. You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Notes for ‘Confidence Level’ completion: (1 = Very Unsure, 5 = Very Confident) Delivering Effective Oral Presentations Action Plan Developing Skill, Confidence Level 1-5 Plans to Improve Understanding and Knowledge To what extent do you understand what makes a good presentation? To what extent do you understand the importance of analysing the audience when preparing for an oral presentation? To what extent do you understand the importance of planning for an oral presentation? Page 45 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  To what extent do you understand the different approaches required when preparing either a computer-assisted, or no-aid presentation? To what extent do you understand how to control your nerves when giving a presentation? To what extent do you appreciate the need to handle audience questions effectively? To what extent do you appreciate and understand how to ensure an audience remembers your presentation? This activity only has value if you follow up your action plan. Use approximately 5.5 hours of your private study time to begin to develop your understanding and knowledge of one or more of the above areas. Page 46 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Topic 10 Topic 10: Listening 10.1 Learning Objectives This topic provides an overview of the core concepts of effective Listening. The lecture should last for approximately 2 hours. On completion of the topic, you will be able to: Understand the importance of listening Appreciate different types of listening Distinguish between effective and ineffective listening 10.2 Timings Lectures: 2 hours Private Study: 6 hours Tutorials: 2 hours Page 47 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3 10.3 Tutorial Exercises The time allowance for tutorials in this topic is 2 hours. Exercise 1: Group Exercise Work in pairs. You are going to hold a 5 minute face-to-face discussion on the topic of, “Why listening is more important than talking”. One of you is to adopt the role of ‘interviewer’ and the other is to adopt the role of ‘interviewee’. Decide who will be the ‘interviewer’ and ‘interviewee’ Interviewer – prepare a short list of questions you want to ask the interviewee. Make sure you prepare questions relevant the main title of the interview. Don’t let the interviewee know what the questions are at this stage. Interviewee – be thinking about what you think you might want to say, even though you don’t know what the questions are yet! Hold the interview. Focus on LISTENING to the questions and the answers Produce a summary of this exercise to present to the whole class. 60 minutes Exercise 2: Class Findings Each pair take turns to present the summary of your findings from Activity 1. Be prepared to answer questions from the audience. Make notes! 30 minutes Exercise 3: Feedback As a tutor-led whole class group, discuss the results of Activities 1 and 2. What have you learned from these activities? Make notes! 30 minutes Page 48 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3 10.4 Private Study The time allocation for private study in this topic is expected to be 6 hours. Exercise 1: You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Read the “active listening” article available at: http://www.mindtools.com/CommSkll/ActiveListening.htm How does this article compare to the material in the lecture. What is similar or different? What have you learned from this exercise? Make notes! Watch the video available at the link below: it only last about 6 minutes http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PMebCqeiX8o How much of the video did you actually LISTEN to? Could you concentrate for the whole time? In not why not? What prevented you? What are the main points you remember from the presentation? Make a list. What have you learned from this exercise? Make notes! Exercise 2: Personal Development Use the results from the activities in the lecture, tutorial and exercise 1 above to record your personal skills, knowledge and understanding in the development planner table below. You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Notes for ‘Confidence Level’ completion: (1 = Very Unsure, 5 = Very Confident) Page 49 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Listening Action Plan Developing Skill, Confidence Level 1-5 Plans to Improve Understanding and Knowledge To what extent do you understand the difference between ‘hearing’ and ‘listening’? To what extent do you understand the three different types of listening? To what extent are you able to differentiate between an effective and ineffective listener? To what extent do you understand how to listen actively? To what extent do you understand the problems associated with trying to listen? To what extent do you appreciate the positive aspects of effective listening? To what extent do you appreciate the need to listen actively when receiving feedback? This activity only has value if you follow up your action plan. Use approximately 5.5 hours of your private study time to begin to develop your understanding and knowledge of one or more of the above areas. Page 50 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Topic 11 Topic 11: Non-Verbal Communication 11.1 Learning Objectives This topic provides an overview of the core concepts of non-verbal communication. The lecture should last for approximately 2 hours. On completion of the topic, you will be able to: Understand the general principles of non-verbal communication Understand the principles of body language Understand the principles of Neuro-Linguistic Programming 11.2 Timings Lectures: 2 hours Private Study: 6 hours Tutorials: 2 hours Page 51 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3 11.3 Tutorial Exercises The time allowance for tutorials in this topic is 2 hours. Exercise 1: Work in groups of 5. You are going to hold a 5 minute face-to-face interview for a job. One of you is to adopt the role of ‘interviewer’ and the other is to adopt the role of ‘interviewee’, the other three will be “witnesses”. Decide who will be the ‘interviewer’ and ‘interviewee’ and ‘witnesses’ Decide what job the interview will be for Hold the 5 minute interview. Note: interviewer – make up the questions as you go along and interviewee make up the answers – they don’t have to be true! Witnesses focus on non-verbal communication/ body language of the interviewer and interviewee – make notes! After the interview discuss as a group of 5 what the interviewer and interviewee were thinking at different points in the interview – and discuss what the witnesses think their body language was saying – make notes! Produce a summary of this exercise to present to the whole class. 60 minutes Exercise 2: Class Findings Each group take turns to present the summary of your findings from Exercise 1. Be prepared to answer questions from the audience. Make notes! 30 minutes Exercise 3: Feedback As a tutor-led whole class group, discuss the results of Exercises 1 and 2. What have you learned from these activities? Make notes! 30 minutes Page 52 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3 11.4 Private Study The time allocation for private study in this topic is expected to be 6 hours. Exercise 1: You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Read the “body language” article available at: http://www.businessballs.com/body-language.htm How does this article compare to the material in the lecture. What is similar or different? In want ways do you need to change your own “body language” to ensure you send the correct signal to others you meet and work with? What have you learned from this exercise? Make notes! Exercise 2: Personal Development Use the results from the activities in the lecture, tutorial and exercise 1 above to record your personal skills, knowledge and understanding in the development planner table below. You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Notes for ‘Confidence Level’ completion: (1 = Very Unsure, 5 = Very Confident) Non-Verbal Communication Action Plan Developing Skill, Confidence Level 1-5 Plans to Improve Understanding and Knowledge To what extent do you understand the concept of non-verbal communication? To what extent do you understand the importance of non-verbal communication? To what extent are you able to adopt positive non-verbal communication when communicating with others? Page 53 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  To what extent do you understand the principles of Neuro-Linguistic Programming? To what extent do you understand the techniques of Neuro-Linguistic Programming? To what extent can you “read” non-verbal communication messages from others? To what extent do you appreciate how different cultures read non-verbal communication signals differently? This activity only has value if you follow up your action plan. Use approximately 5.5 hours of your private study time to begin to develop your understanding and knowledge of one or more of the above areas. Page 54 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  Topic 12 Topic 12: CV writing and interview techniques 12.1 Learning Objectives This topic provides an overview of the core concepts of CV writing and interview techniques. The lecture should last for approximately 2 hours. On completion of the topic, you will be able to: Appreciate how to construct a winning CV Appreciate how to prepare for an interview Understand how to succeed at an interview 12.2 Timings Lectures: 2 hours Private Study: 6 hours Tutorials: 2 hours Page 55 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3 12.3 Tutorial Exercises The time allowance for tutorials in this topic is 2 hours. Exercise 1: Group Exercise Work in pairs. You are going to hold a 5 minute interview for the job role of “Sales Executive” at an imaginary company One of you is to adopt the role of ‘interviewer’ and the other is to adopt the role of ‘interviewee’. Decide who will be the ‘interviewer’ and ‘interviewee’ Interviewer – prepare a short list of questions you want to ask the interviewee Don’t let the interviewee see the questions at this stage Interviewee – prepare some answers for why you want this job and what skills you can offer. Be imaginative – be honest, but sell to your strengths! Don’t let the interviewer see these answers at this stage Hold the interview Now sit down together and discuss what went well and what didn’t How effective was the interviewer at composing and asking relevant questions? How effective was the interviewee at answering questions? Were you both listening actively? What about issues of body language? Etc. Make notes! Produce a summary of this exercise to present to the whole class 60 minutes Exercise 2: Class Findings Each group take turns to present the summary of your findings from Exercise1. Be prepared to answer questions from the audience. Make notes! 30 minutes Exercise 3: Feedback As a tutor-led whole class group, discuss the results of Exercises 1 and 2. What have you learned from these activities? Make notes! 30 minutes Page 56 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3 12.4 Private Study The time allocation for private study in this topic is expected to be 6 hours. Exercise 1: You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Read the “curriculum vitae writing tips and techniques” article available at: http://www.businessballs.com/curriculum.htm How does this article compare to the material in the lecture. What is similar or different? In what ways do you need to improve your CV to improve your chances of getting an interview in the future? What have you learned from this exercise? Make notes! Read the “interviews” article available at: http://www.businessballs.com/interviews.htm How does this article compare to the material in the lecture. What is similar or different? In what ways do you need to improve your interview techniques to improve your chances of being successful at interviews in the future? What have you learned from this exercise? Make notes! Exercise 2: Personal Development Use the results from the activities in the lecture, tutorial and activity one above to record your personal skills, knowledge and understanding in the development planner table below. You should spend approximately 90 minutes on this activity. Notes for ‘Confidence Level’ completion: (1 = Very Unsure, 5 = Very Confident) Page 57 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3  CV Writing and Interview Techniques Action Plan Developing Skill, Confidence Level 1-5 Plans to Improve Understanding and Knowledge To what extent do you understand the importance of a good CV – and how to write one? To what extent do you understand the importance of personalising a CV for each different job application? To what extent are you able to perform well under interview conditions – and what steps can you take to improve? To what extent do you understand how to give a presentation at an interview? To what extent do you understand the importance of asking questions at an interview – and the types of questions to ask? To what extent do you understand how to dress for an interview? To what extent do you appreciate the importance of doing research before attending an interview? This activity only has value if you follow up your action plan. Use approximately 5.5 hours of your private study time to begin to develop your understanding and knowledge of one or more of the above areas. Page 58 of 58 CFB Student Guide V1.3