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Tandem Language Learning

What we Offer

Whether as a complement to a language course or on its own, we offer you the opportunity to participate in an (online) language tandem.

To support your learning partnership, you can take advantage of individual counseling sessions, workshops, and language tandem materials with activity-based tasks.

(Online) Language Tandem - What is it?

Language tandems are learning partnerships that take place either in person or through online communication tools such as email, instant messaging, or video calls.

In a tandem, you learn your partner’s native language while they learn yours. This mutual exchange allows both partners to benefit equally—learning from and with each other, offering support, and deepening their understanding of both the language and culture.

(Online) Language Tandem – Who can Join and Why should they Join?

Students at JLU and its partner universities can participate in this free and optional language learning program that facilitates authentic communication with native speakers. This offers them the opportunity to further develop their language skills in order to:

  • Prepare for a language exam;
  • Use the language in personal, academic, or professional settings;
  • Enhance their intercultural competence;
  • Plan and prepare for a stay abroad.

(Online) Language Tandem – Basic Rules and Key Information

  • Regular (online) meetings, ideally once a week during the lecture period
  • Equal time dedicated to both languages
  • Separate speaking phases for each language
  • Each participant is responsible for their own learning progress
  • The person whose native language is being practiced decides on the activities for that session—these can vary for each language
  • Both participants should have sufficient language skills to communicate without relying on a third language

(Online) Language Tandem – Principles and Potential

Learner Autonomy and Responsibility: Tandem learners take charge of their own learning, making independent decisions about content and progression. They plan their learning process, monitor their progress, and reflect consciously on their approach.

Reciprocity: Both partners support each other in achieving their individually defined learning goals. The effort invested should be mutual—each participant can expect as much commitment as they are willing to contribute.

Authentic Communication: In a tandem, communication is natural and relevant to your interests. You and your partner decide which topics motivate you. As native speakers of your respective languages, you serve as linguistic models, providing examples, clarifications, and corrections as needed.

Cultural Learning: Tandem learning is also a cultural exchange, offering the opportunity to actively experience and engage with another culture.

High Interaction and Speaking Practice: The tandem format creates a highly interactive learning environment, making it particularly effective for improving oral communication skills.