Tandem learning – Leibniz Language Centre – Leibniz University Hannover

In language learning in tandem, two students with different mother tongues learn together. For example, if you want to improve your Spanish or English, you can work with someone whose mother tongue is Spanish or English and who wants to learn your mother tongue.

Our tandem programme in the current semester

How does tandem learning work?

For example, you meet for two hours a week and work for one hour in each language. You can also lead the tandem by e-mail or communicate with your tandem partner via videotool (video conference). We offer various (course) options for this. You will receive support in your learning in the language learning consultation from the tandem team.

Basic principles of tandem learning

1. Reciprocity principle

Half of the time is for one language, the other half of the time for the other language, because both tandem learners should benefit equally from the tandem. The tandem pair helps each other to achieve their own learning goals.

2. Autonomy principle

Everyone is responsible for his or her own learning. This principle is also called "self-directed learning". In tandem learning, the tandem pair decides on the learning content, the learning location and how much should be learned.

What are the advantages of tandem learning at the LLC?

Study-relevant advantages
- Individual interests and university and subject-specific topics/texts can be brought into focus.
- Topics from seminars and lectures can be studied in greater depth with the tandem partner.
- Targeted preparation for examinations/presentations/exams with the help of the tandem partner.
- The time flexibility often enables students to learn a language at all.
- Promotion of independent learning organisation/autonomous self-learning.
- Promoting learning through digitalisation.
Linguistic advantages
- All languages at all levels can be learned. This is particularly relevant if no language course is offered at the LLC for the language of learning.
- Authentic communication skills can be practised with a native speaker.
- Acquired foreign language skills can be specifically deepened with the help of the tandem partner.
- The opportunity to learn other varieties of the language (e.g. Brazilian Portuguese).
- Learning in partnership.
Internationalisation strategy
- Integration of incoming students through tandem learning with German students.
- Integration of international academic staff.
- Promotion of international mobility of students and academic staff.
- Promoting interculturality and tolerance.
- Increasing the attractiveness of the LUH through the integration of international students and academic staff.
- Cooperation with many of LUH's cooperation partners and the DAAD.

What are the differences between the offers?

E-Tandem

You communicate for four to six weeks on specific topics via e-mail and twice via videotool.
You correct each other.

The topics of the e-mails are prepared in your language course if it is a course-integrated tandem course.

Video-Tandem

You will communicate three to eight times during the semester (depending on the course) via videotool.
The video conferences are prepared in the Spanish course.

The tandem partnership with the USA is course-independent.