Tandem − Language Learning Partnership

Kursteilnehmer*innen Sprachenzentrum
Photograph: © Simon Haigermoser

 

Important note

The language learning exchange is a voluntary additional offer of the Language Centre. We cannot guarantee that we will find a partner exactly for your language(s). For organizational reasons, the possible languages for the language learning partnership are currently limited to the languages offered at the Language Centre.

 

 

Powered by “On Track!” (Department of Psychology)

 

 

  • What Is a Language Tandem?

    A language learning tandem is a form of language learning partnership between speakers of different native/first languages who want to improve their knowledge of the other’s language, e.g. between a learner of French with German as their first language and a learner of German with French as their first language.  The tandem partners meet each other on a regular basis and communicate in the languages they have learned. The focus is usually on oral interaction.

  • How does the tandem work?

    Shortly after the start of the semester, we send out a link to a survey to the course participants. With the help of your information (first language(s), language(s) learned, levels of language(s) learned, etc.) we try to find a suitable partner for you. If we find a suitable language learning partner for you, we will send you the contact details. The further organization of the tandem is up to the tandem partners. For this purpose, we have prepared a short information brochure with important points that can serve as an orientation for you (see below).

  • When, how often, how and where can/should we meet?

    Ideally, you should meet regularly and agree on topics. It has proven useful to use the first meeting to talk about motivation, goals and expectations. Decide together how you would like to approach errors/mistakes and feedback. After each meeting, take time to reflect on your meeting and your experience. Meetings can take place online or face-to-face – you can discuss this too during your first meeting.

  • Guide

    You can find tips on how to design your language learning partnership in our Tandem Guide.