English for Construction

44B0620

Bachelor

English

5.0

only winterterm

1 double appointment / week

1 semester

The English for Construction module is designed to equip students with the language skills and practical knowledge necessary for successful communication within the global construction industry. Through roleplaying the position of a contractor, students will engage in a comprehensive construction task, interacting with clients and stakeholders in English. The module focuses on the practical application of construction-related language, including design discussions, feasibility assessments, contract negotiations, and preparation of technical documents such as bills of quantities and tender documents. By working in groups, students will gain hands-on experience in the international construction process, enhancing both their technical expertise and their ability to communicate effectively in English within a professional, multicultural context.

Course Content

1. Introduction to Construction Terminology and Concepts
   Basic construction terms and industry-specific vocabulary
   Key construction processes: design, feasibility, tendering, and contracting
   Introduction to construction documentation (e.g., bills of quantities, contracts, tender documents)
2. Roleplay: The Contractor's Position
   Understanding the contractor’s responsibilities and tasks
   Discussing project feasibility with the client
   Reviewing and refining initial design proposals
   Finalizing designs after client feedback
3. Feasibility Studies and Initial Designs
   Conducting feasibility analyses for construction projects
   Preparing initial design proposals
   Analyzing technical and budget constraints
   Communicating design ideas and modifications in English
4. Tender Documents and Bills of Quantities
   Writing detailed bills of quantities
   Preparing and presenting tender documents
   Reviewing project costs, timeframes, and resources
   Negotiating tender proposals with clients and stakeholders
5. Contract Negotiations
   Understanding contract terms and conditions in construction projects
   Roleplaying contract negotiation scenarios
   Writing and reviewing contracts in English
   Legal and ethical considerations in construction contracts
6. Group Work and Collaboration
   Collaborative project work in English, simulating a contractor-client relationship
   Effective communication within a multicultural team
   Problem-solving and decision-making in construction projects
   Peer feedback and constructive discussion of project proposals
7. Final Presentation and Documentation
   Presenting the final design and tender proposal to the client
   Writing a final report with project details and contracts
   Refining professional communication in English for construction purposes

This module emphasizes hands-on experience and practical application of English in construction settings, enabling students to transfer their knowledge into real-world, international contexts.

The total workload for the module is 150 hours (see also "ECTS credit points and grading").

• Project Report, written and oral exam

Grade weighting: Project report 50% + oral exam 50%

The project report contains the compilation of documenation developed during the module, amongst others:

• Company description and mission statement
• letter of enquiry
• minutes of site meeting
• design drawings
• material lists
• tender documentation
• contract negotiation
• legal contract
• official acceptance
• diverse communications accompanying the documentation

Oral exam = 30 minutes

B2 (successfully completed B1 level)

Upon completion of this module, students will be able to analyze construction projects from both a technical and practical perspective, applying quantitative data to assess the feasibility and scale of a construction task. They will learn to create detailed designs and bills of quantities, using English to accurately describe the scope and technical requirements of construction projects. Students will also develop the skills necessary to write comprehensive tender documents, conduct cost analyses, and present quantitative data to clients and colleagues in a clear and professional manner.

This module helps students broaden their understanding of construction processes in an international context by incorporating English as the primary language for all communication. Through roleplay, students simulate the experience of working as contractors, negotiating and collaborating with clients, and preparing documentation in English. The module emphasizes the importance of disseminating knowledge across borders, preparing students to work in global construction projects and interact with diverse, international teams.

Students will critically engage with the construction task, questioning and reflecting on the feasibility and practicality of their proposed solutions. They will develop a deeper understanding of the challenges involved in construction projects, from design to contract negotiation. By discussing these challenges in English and presenting solutions, students will refine their ability to apply theoretical knowledge from other modules to real-world, international construction scenarios.

The module enables students to apply their theoretical knowledge from other fields of study in a practical, real-world context. By roleplaying the contractor’s position, students will transfer their expertise in design, feasibility analysis, and project management into English-language documentation and communication. They will gain experience in preparing final designs, writing bills of quantities, and creating tender documents—skills that can be transferred to the international construction industry.

Throughout this module, students will work collaboratively in groups to design and manage a construction project. They will communicate with one another and with the client in English, engaging in discussions about design feasibility, contract terms, and project execution. These collaborative exercises will build teamwork skills and foster effective communication in English, both of which are essential for working in the international construction industry. By preparing documentation and negotiating contract terms, students will also practice professional communication in a variety of construction-related scenarios.

This module emphasizes professionalism in the construction industry, preparing students to manage projects and communicate effectively with clients in an international setting. Students will develop a scientific understanding of construction practices, from feasibility studies to final design, and apply this knowledge to create high-quality, technically sound documentation. They will also be expected to demonstrate professional conduct in their interactions, ensuring their communication and written materials meet the standards of the global construction industry. Through this process, students will refine their ability to think critically and act professionally in the field.

This module practices the skills that have been learned in other modules.

• Land Use Transformation M.Sc. (01.03.2026)

• Landscape Engineering B.Eng. (01.09.2025)

• Business Administration in Civil Engineering B.Eng. (01.09.2025)

• Landscape Engineering Dual B.Eng. (01.09.2025)

• Business Administration in Civil Engineering Dual B. Eng. (01.09.2025)

• Building – Environment – Management M.Eng. (01.09.2025)

• Fine, Jonathan

• Fine, Jonathan