Abstract
This chapter focuses on the new conceptualization of linguistic mediation as presented in the Common European Framework of Reference (CFER) Companion Volume and its role in the development of soft skills as the foundation for intercultural and interlinguistic communication. By the time of graduation, the 21st century student must have acquired a set of skills that were not required in the past, and educators have the responsibility to integrate these skills into their instructional practices. Therefore, these concepts are key elements in today's society characterized by globalization and connection with stakeholders in different environments.
TopBackground
This chapter focuses on the new conceptualization of linguistic mediation as presented in the Common European Framework of Reference (CFER) Companion Volume (2020) and its role in the development of soft skills as the foundation for intercultural and interlinguistic communication. By the time of graduation, the 21st century student must have acquired a set of skills that were not required in the past, and educators have the responsibility to integrate these skills into their instructional practices. Therefore, these concepts are key elements in today's society characterized by globalization and connection with stakeholders in different environments.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Intelligence Quotient (IQ): A total score derived from a set of standardized tests or subtests designed to assess human intelligence.
Linguistic Mediation: A type of interaction that takes place among people that are unable to communicate, when speakers do not speak the same language, or when speakers do speak the same language, but one of them has wider or more specific knowledge of the common language.
English for Specific Purposes (ESP): A subset of English as a Second or Foreign Language. It usually refers to teaching the English language to university students or people already in employment, with reference to the particular vocabulary and skills they need.
Soft Skills: Also known as common skills or core skills, are skills applicable to all professions. These include critical thinking, problem solving, public speaking, professional writing, teamwork, digital literacy, leadership, professional attitude, work ethic, career management and intercultural fluency. This is in contrast to hard skills, which are specific to individual professions.
Interlinguistic Communication: The communicative process between people who cannot make themselves understood by means of their different first languages.
English for Professional and Academic Communication (EPAC): Subject taught in the Degree of Building Engineering at Universidad Politécnica de Madrid with a focus on communicative aspects in the field of construction.