English Speaking and Listening

Learning outcomes of the course unit:
After completing the course, the students

- are familiar with various listening and speaking theories
- are fluent in communicating orally in a fully on-line environment
- are more aware of various cultural issues which may arise in multi-cultural work groups
- are able to create a video presentation in groups
- know how to use different on-line communication tools


Level: European Framework of Reference: B2-C1

Course contents


Speaking theory
Listening theory
Pronounciation exercises
Cultural aspects


The course consists of theory material which the students are required to study independently, individual assignments which are submitted to the teacher as well as a small group project. In the group project the students create a short video in small groups.

The course takes place in an on-line learning environment with no actual classroom meetings, and half of the students in the course will be from Masaryk University, Czechia. There will be on-line meetings with the other students and the teacher through various on-line communication tools. The students will also be working on video project together in small groups. Other learning activities include producing audio and video recordings.

Prerequisites and co-requisites
Prerequisites: upper secondary school English or equivalent. This is an advanced course on English.

All the course materials are submitted through the learning environment and the students have no need to buy any materials.

The students will be assessed both individually and in groups. Individual assignment consists of learning diaries and podcasts and the group assessment on the final product of the project the students will be doing in groups. The assessment methods will include assessment by the teacher, self-assessment as well as peer assessment.

The course is divided into 3 sections, which each take approximately 3 weeks to complete, and 1 week at the end for feedback. The students need to plan their schedules individually and with their group members.
Note: There are no weekly classes!

The English course in speaking and listening is aimed at students who wish to improve their pronunciation in English, learn to listen to and comprehend spoken English better and who want to improve their skills in on-line collaboration and the use of contemporary on-line discussion tools.The course is also suitable for all students from all degree programmes. It is also suitable for exchange students as the teaching language of the course is English.

This is a fully on-line course with no classroom meetings. The course consists of both independent work as well as a small final project which will be done in groups. Even though the course has a schedule with set deadlines, the students need to be able to also work independently.

The participants need to have access to a computer with speakers/headphones and a microphone. Laptop quality equipment is sufficient. They also need to have video recording equipment, but smartphone quality is quite enough (the students do not need to own a video camera).