More than language learning: a Tandem success story

Initial uncertainties are part of it

"The first meeting was associated with some uncertainty for me," recalls Isabel. "It wasn't always easy to react spontaneously to new topics and sometimes I was afraid of making mistakes." A worry familiar to many language learners. But this is precisely one of the great strengths of the tandem concept: in the protected atmosphere of equal learning partners, mistakes are allowed to be made - they are part of the learning process.

Isabel and Pallavi were supported from the outset by the Language Centre's tandem coordinator, Claudia Ruiz Vega. In preparatory meetings, they jointly defined individual learning goals that matched their personal needs. This clear structure helped them to work in a targeted manner from the outset.

Structure creates security - openness creates trust

Over the course of ten two-hour meetings, the two developed a routine that has proven its worth: Small warm-ups at the beginning of each meeting helped to get the conversation going quickly. Role plays made it possible to act out specific situations from everyday study and work life and thus gain more confidence for real-life situations. At the end of each session, there was a joint reflection that provided valuable impetus for further learning progress.

"After just a few meetings, I felt comfortable and was able to contribute authentically without fear of judgement," report both students. This atmosphere of trust made it possible to tackle difficult topics and really engage with the foreign language.

In parallel to the meetings, both students kept a tandem diary in which they documented their progress. This reflection helped them to consciously recognise their own successes - an important motivational factor in language learning.

Aha moments and personal growth

The progress was not long in coming. "I remember moments when I was able to formulate long technical passages spontaneously and fluently," says Isabel. "It was important for me to be able to communicate in German at all," adds Pallavi.

As part of the programme, Isabel and Pallavi also worked on two target-relevant sub-projects, which they presented in a final meeting. These projects made it possible to apply what they had learnt in practice and deepen their own areas of interest.

More than just vocabulary and grammar

What makes a tandem particularly valuable is the intercultural exchange. "In addition to the language, we also learnt a lot about cultural differences and similarities," emphasise both partners. The exchange about personal experiences and everyday situations broadened their view of other ways of life and sharpened their intercultural understanding - skills that are indispensable in our globalised world.

And then there is something else that Isabel and Pallavi particularly appreciate: "Our meetings took place so regularly that it became more than just a learning partnership - a real friendship developed."

Tip: Just get started!

What advice would the two students give to others who are thinking about taking part in a tandem programme? "Be open and curious and don't be afraid to make mistakes," is their most important tip. "It helps to set realistic goals together and establish a regular structure for the meetings. But above all, it's important to be relaxed and respectful with each other."

The tandem programme has enriched the study time of both partners incredibly - not only through better language skills, but also through personal growth and a new friendship that has lasted beyond the programme.