vcc.ca
HOSP 1311: Introduction to Business Communications
Effective date
May 2024
Department
Hospitality Management
School
Hospitality, Food Studies and Applied Business
Description
Students develop their oral and written skills and strategies for effective communication in the hospitality industry and subsequent courses in the program. An experiential and self-reflective approach is used to develop self-awareness, confidence and communication skills required in a diverse environment. The course covers practical business communication techniques for presenting information, writing business messages, and delivering oral presentations. Students will be introduced to establishing and writing frequently in their ePortfolio.
Credits
3.0
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
None
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Identify the principles of effective communication (including intercultural communication dynamics, principles of clear communication).
- Determine appropriate style, tone and organization in team-based, formal, and informal written and oral business communication.
- Demonstrate introductory verbal and non-verbal communication skills and strategies.
- Practice communication skills and strategies for effective engagement.
- Practice the importance of self-reflection and self-awareness in the communication process.
- Create an individual ePortfolio introducing key items that represent career-related achievements and skills
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
Complete a portfolio that demonstrates working knowledge of the course learning outcomes and interview with an instructor.
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 45
Total Hours: 45
Total Hours: 45
Instructional Strategies
Instruction involves interactive lectures, presentations, group discussions, demonstrations, role plays, and peer feedback. Learning will be enhanced through a variety of interactive classroom and collaborative activities including guest speakers from the hospitality industry. The interactive and practical exercises gives students the opportunity to take an active role and learn by doing.
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Passing grade
D (50%)
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Participation |
10 |
Preparation for class, active discussion, participation during class |
|
Assignments |
20-30 |
Written assignments - forum posts, feedback, self-reflection, emails etc. |
|
Assignments |
30 - 40 |
Series of short individual/group presentations |
|
Portfolio |
5 - 10 |
Creating an individual ePortfolio through self directed research and exercises. |
|
Other |
15 - 25 |
Final presentation |
Course topics
- Intercultural awareness (culture and communication)/Identifying barriers when communicating
- Business etiquette when communicating
- Key principles of effective oral communication
- Building confidence
- Problem solving/conflict resolution
- Networking e.g. (Small talk, building rapport)
- Active listening
- Introduction to ePortfolio
- Considering audience & purpose
- Planning, drafting and revising a message
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.