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University of Kingston - Language Gateways into the Professions: French for students of Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering

Author(s): Teresa Birks
Institution/Organisation: CILT, the National Centre for Languages (UK)

Summary

Four Universities, Bristol, Loughborough, Kingston and Salford, designed and piloted language modules linked to Engineering and Built Environment Degrees.  Within each University, a language expert work closely with a vocational expert to design the modules in consultation with employers and professional bodies such as the Engineering Council UK and RICS, Construction Skills.

 

Kingston University taught two intensive courses in French within an aeronautical context.


The aim was to develop and deliver an accredited language course to students of Aerospace and Aeronautical Engineering, as well as informing and motivating the next generation of engineers about the importance of developing language and intercultural skills for their future careers.


The students, although beginners, were able to deal with texts containing complicated language in the context of their degree subject. 

 

Understanding the technical side gave the students more confidence in their general use of the language.

 

All project partners have contributed to two fact sheets which make the case for languages in the Built Environment and Engineering. These will form part of CILT's Languages Work suite of publications.

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