D Competencies
In this area, students are taught basic technical and individual competencies:
Methodology
Five consecutive courses focus on the theoretical and methodological basics for the interdisciplinary programme. The courses are conducted by lecturers from the following faculties: the Institute for Algebra and Geometry, the Chair of University Research and Professionalisation of Teaching, the Chair of Logistics and Material Handling Systems, and the Chair of Anglophone Cultural and Literary Studies. It is recommended to complete the two compulsory courses Mathematical Methodology I and II in the first two semesters as they form the basis for logistics, economics, computer science and the Introduction to Evaluation Research Methodology (PM 42). Alongside the regular courses, the Faculty of Mathematics also offers “MathsSupport” classes. Moreover, applied cultural studies also makes use of the methodology of empirical sociological research, such as qualitative and quantitative data analysis. Additional cultural studies methods (5 CP), such as semiotics and discourse analysis, are taught in PM 43. PM 44 “Logistic Webs/Qualitative Logistic Analysis” offers theories of networked thinking and analytical models for complex systems. It is recommended to complete the compulsory modules of the methodology branch prior to the semester abroad.
Trainings and Key Competencies
Trainings and classes on the development of individual competencies are central to the course offer, as they will shape students’ proficiencies for either the job market or a career in academia. PM 45 “Academic Identity and Conduct” (5 CP) is concerned with both the teaching of theoretical academic basics of interdisciplinary work as well as the development of research questions and practical projects which can be taken up in students’ project work. The two classes in PM 46 “Communication Training” (5 CP in total) focus on rhetoric and presentation techniques and prepare students for job interviews. Moreover, speech science classes offered by the Language Center (“Speech Rhetoric”, “Conversation Rhetoric”, “Vocal Hygiene”) are open for selection. For your course selection, please note that the communication training module PM 46 can only be completed with two assignments (Studiennachweis) in two different courses. Trainings and key competencies courses are managed by the Chair for University Research and Professionalisation of Teaching. Alongside OVGU offers (e.g. „Development and Promotion of Interpersonal Competencies“), students can also take communication or application trainings offered by the Magdeburg-Stendal University of Applied Sciences (Please note that these course offers may be subject to a fee).
Internship
The internship (PM 47) aims at familiarising students with the implementation and application of the programme’s subject matter in businesses and institutions. It also offers the possibility to gain first insights into their intended work ¬field. Moreover, the practical education intends to foster the understanding of study contents and students’ motivation. The internship (5 CP) is firmly integrated into the programme and lasts at least four weeks. Students can choose whether they want to do the internship during the semester or in the semester break. For further information, see here.