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Tandem
Do either of these statements apply to you?
- I’d like to do an Erasmus semester abroad, but none of the language courses I need fit my schedule.
- I’d like to improve my knowledge of another language, but I’m not really sure how to go about it.
- I'd like to learn more about foreign languages and students from other cultures and improve my intercultural competence.
If so, then our tandem language program just might be the answer!
Tandem language learning is for people who want to advance their language skills outside a traditional classroom setting. Working hand-in-hand with a native speaker, tandem learning provides the unique opportunity for a learner to offer his or her native language in return. With each partner receiving equal time, communication occurs in both languages. One half of a tandem session is devoted to the language you wish to practice, while the other half is for your partner to practice your native tongue. Tandem learning thus allows two people to learn from, and with, each other.
Facts and Dates
The following criteria must be met in order to be able to participate in a tandem program:
- You are an enrolled student at TU Dortmund University. Unfortunately, participation is not possible for Gasthörende, Zweithörende or external individuals.
- You either possess a minimum A2 skill level in the target language or are currently enrolled in a course at, or above, the A2 level.
- You wish to further your knowledge of other languages and cultures.
To locate a tandem partner, simply sign in to our course platform with your TU Dortmund University e-mail address (firstname.lastname@tu-dortmund.de). Once you have logged in to your personal account (login students), navigate to “tandem” and then go to “registration”. You will then be able to see your current registration details and partnerships under “tandem” and “overview”, respectively.
In principle, tandem learning is possible at any language level, but basic knowledge of the foreign language increases learning success. It is ideal if you have already completed an A1 course or are currently at A2 level. There are several reasons for this:
Basic language skills:
With a completed A1 level, you have acquired basic language skills. You can understand and formulate simple sentences. You have mastered at least one past tense as well as basic knowledge of verb conjugation, prepositions, pronouns and tenses. You will be able to tell your tandem partner about the last weekend or your last vacation, for example.
Independent learning:
At A2 level, you are able to organize your learning more independently. You will be able to ask and understand basic questions, which will lead to a more meaningful exchange with your tandem partner.
Mutual error correction:
From A2 level, you will be able to recognize and correct simple mistakes in each other's language. This contributes to the learning process.
Cultural exchange:
Basic language skills allow you to exchange ideas on simple cultural topics. This promotes cultural competence, i.e. an understanding of the culture associated with the language.
Authentic conversations:
From level A2 onwards, you will already be able to handle more realistic and varied conversational situations, which increases your motivation to learn and contributes to a positive learning experience.
- Flexible. It always fits your schedule because you decide when you’ll have time.
- Focused. It’s tailored to your learning goals because you set your own learning goals.
- Learner-defined. You and your partner decide when, where, how long and what will be learned.
- Cross-cultural. In addition to improving your language skills, you also learn a lot about other cultural habits and traditions by interacting with your tandem partner.
- It’s great fun because you choose the topics yourself!
Counselling sessions are the chance to learn more about how to get the most out of your tandem experience. Sessions can be attended individually or with your tandem partner. Topics include learning how to motivate oneself, developing independent learning skills, reducing inhibitions when speaking, and how to cultivate higher intercultural awareness and greater openness towards other cultures. Most importantly, you will pick up new communication and learning strategies, achieve learning success and have fun while learning/practicing the target language.
Would you like a learning consultation? Individually or together with your tandem partner? Then please contact Laura Tiego by email.
Basic Rules for Tandem Language Learning
| Reciprocity | Both languages should be treated equally; in one session, both tandem partners speak one language, and in the next session, the other language. Whenever possible, you should try not to use a third language. |
| Learning goals | Both tandem partners decide for themselves what they would like to learn or improve. |
| Correction | Both tandem partners decide for themselves how they would like to be corrected (there are several options; ask the learning consultant). |
| Progress Monitoring and Personal Responsibility | Both tandem partners are learning a foreign language without a teacher; check regularly to ensure you are still on track with your learning goals. |
| Feedback | Provide feedback to yourself and your tandem partnership to determine whether you are still satisfied with your self-directed learning. If not, contact the learning advisor; she can offer suggestions and new ideas. |
Suggestions for Tandem Language Learning
Sample Media | Educational Objective |
|---|---|
| Photographs | Help one become visually acquainted with another culture while gaining insight into the mentality of its people |
| News Articles / Internet | Address current events and trends, cultural traditions, and holidays |
| Video / DVD | Better understanding of authentic speech, linking visual action with listening comprehension |
| Books / Lecture notes | Interact with more complex content in order to better understand the lesson materials |
| Audio books | Improve speech and listening comprehension using a written source |
| Materials / ideas | SEAGULL |
Contact
Tandem Registration:
Sign up on our course platform.
Tandem Partner Placement:
If you have any questions about the tandem partner placement or changing partners, please contact E-Mail.
Tandem Learning Consultation:
If you have any questions about the tandem learning consultation please contact Dr. Laura Tiego.
You can find more information in our Leaflet "Tandem" (in German).
How are your language skills
Use our grid to self-assess your language skills.