Student guide Faculty of Economics A.Y. 2008/09

Embarking on university life requires a new approach to study and a different level of efficiency and productivity in one's work. These two aspects involve the adoption of a new view of one's role and an increase in responsibility.
It is essential for students to realise that teamwork, the ability to communicate and a more responsible view of learning processes influence educational results. It is also important for them to understand the need to learn the skills and behavioural sensitivity required by the unique profession they intend to enter. This aim will be developed fully in the parallel Skills and Behaviour programme.
The objectives are consequently as follows:
- to facilitate the change from the role of other-directed pupil to "entrepreneurial" researcher;
- to promote learning of some communication and teamwork skills;
- to develop a new and appropriate approach to the new needs of study and the future profession.
The course will be conducted in the context of interfaculty groups of students, and will present the living and studying environment of the LIUC with contributions from some institutional figures.

First module - Teamwork

The aim of the module is to make students aware of the importance of moving on from the individualistic model of learning and developing teamwork skills. This requires direct involvement by students, who will have the opportunity of trying out the basic rules of work in groups.
Subjects:
1. Group and team: definition and characteristics.
2. The multidimensionality of groups.
3. Stages of development of groups.
4. The characteristics of successful groups.
5. The efficacy of the group: contents and relations.
6. Management of group contents: purpose, organisation and working methods.
7. Management of relations: influence and leadership, cohesion, communication, listening and feedback, collaboration and conflict management.


Second module - Communicating in learning and working situations.

The aim of this module is to demonstrate that interpersonal communication plays a key part in every interaction: from teaching to passing exams and the creation of a favourable relationship with the parties involved.
Subjects:
1. The components of communication.
1.1 Digital and analogue communication.
1.2 Verbal, para-verbal and non-verbal language: decoding and informed use of their different elements.
1.3 The concept of circular communication.
2. Effective use of communication as a skill required in every job.
2.1 Representational systems.
2.2 Introduction to public speaking.
2.3 Stress management.
2.4 The written business communication.

Third module - A new view of knowledge.

The purpose of this module is to provide a "philosophy" and an approach to knowledge appropriate to a university and professional context. This ties in with the optional "Skills and Behaviour" programme which students can attend from the second semester of the first year onwards.
Subjects:
1. An approach to knowledge suited to a university environment.
2. Characteristics and contents of the Skills and Behaviour programme.

Attendance at the course is mandatory, and a written exam will be held.