CS2013-final-report

privacy. Students are asked to share their individual opinions supported by facts to agree either for or against their
particular view. They are also required to respond to other student’s threaded discussions and explain why they
either agree or disagree with the other person’s posts.
Group Research Paper and Presentation
A group of students work to select a research topic, write a group research paper and give a group presentation on
the research topic. The group research paper must utilize peer reviewed references as well as follow APA
formatting. The group research paper and presentation include several individual and group milestones to
encourage students to complete their paper in a timely manner. Students use group collaboration tools in the
preparation of their paper.
Student groups give their group research presentation twice during the semester. The first presentation is
videotaped and posted online. Students are asked to view their portion of the presentation and write a short paper
critiquing their portion of the presentation. Student groups then carry out their final class presentation and are
graded on their group presentation.
Professional Interviews Preparation
Students are asked to prepare a professional technical resume and prepare for a mock interview with a “real”
industry employer. Students are instructed regarding how to write a professional resume that highlights their
technical skills and relevant experiences. Three drafts of their resume are developed in progressive stages. During
this process, students receive critiques on their resume from the instructor, the Career Services Office and an
industry professional. Students are also required to write a cover letter and prepare a list of references.
Students are instructed on how to prepare for a technical and situational interview. Students participate in a class
interview with another student. This practice interview with another student heightens their awareness of what
may occur during a “real” interview. Students are also critiqued on their interview skills through a Mock
Interview Day in which “real” industry professionals conduct a face-to-face interview and provide feedback on the
student’s resume and interview skills.
Students are also required to attend a Career Day to meet “real” employers. They are encouraged to set up
interviews for summer internships or to make contacts for future internships or full-time employment. In short,
students are encouraged to network with employers.
Cross Cultural Skills
Undergraduate and graduate international students work together in groups and are exposed different cultural
viewpoints as well as approaches to problem solving.
How are students assessed
Students receive course points for their professional communication through group work participation, their
research paper and presentation and their technical resume development and interview practice and preparation.
Professional Communication Assessment is as follows:
Topic
Percentage of Final Grade
Technical Resume Development 10%
Technical Interview Development 14%
Group Research Paper 16%
Group Research Presentation 16%
Discussion Threads 7%
Class/Group Participation 20%
Other Assignments 17%
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