Tandem language learning is suitable for anyone wishing to learn a new language or refresh dormant language skills, or for anyone interested in finding out more about another country and a different culture.

The Akademisches Auslandsamt offers its “Sprachtandem” programme at interdisciplinary level to all past and present students and other members of the University of Duisburg-Essen.

Participation in the programme is free of charge and voluntary. For a successful tandem learning exchange, you must be enthusiastic about self-regulated learning and willing to take charge of your own learning experience.

Tandem learning partners must be able to communicate with each other, so you should at least have a rudimentary knowledge of the foreign language you wish to learn. The best time to embark on tandem language learning is when you are at the level one, or preferably level two, stage of learning the foreign language. The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is a useful guide to assessing your proficiency in a language. By its standards, you should at least have reached Level A2 (elementary language use). If so, you can use tandem learning to complement your regular studies and - in addition to conventional language lessons in a group - organise your own language learning partnership with your co-learner. These sessions are ideal for a whole range of activities, including practising conversation or simulating job interviews to help you prepare for working abroad.