Institute Language Learning in Tandem

The course “Language Learning in Tandem” is aimed at students at Heidelberg University who would like to improve their language skills with a native-speaking language partner.

In tandem language learning, two learners with different native languages work together to improve their knowledge of their partner’s language and culture. Tandem learning consists of weekly meetings during the semester. It gives you the opportunity to:

• combine language learning with authentic, intensive communication while learning a great deal about your tandem partner’s culture
• benefit from targeted support from a native speaker

Examples of possible tandem situations

• A German tandem partner would like to learn more about everyday and university etiquette in China because she is planning to spend a semester there. Everyday or university situations could be simulated.
• A tandem partner from Spain would like to learn more about writing emails in German in a university context. The student tandem partner can use examples to explain German conventions for email communication and provide opportunities to practise them.

Benefits:

• Flexible scheduling (depending on individual needs and workload)
• Opportunity to adapt learning content and learning goals to individual needs
• Further development of language skills
• Meeting new people
• Earning credits (ECTS) for students (e.g. as transferable skills credits) or receiving a certificate of participation