TANDEM language exchanges
A brief overview
TANDEM language exchanges enable students to practice a foreign language with a native speaker. It is an commitment that students make with respect to other students – who have a different mother tongue – to meet regularly to teach each other their mutual languages. These meetings are done remotely via Skype, Zoom or Teams.
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These linguistic exchanges offer a great autonomy to both students, who can organize the rhythm of their meetings. The goal is at the same time linguistic and cultural thanks to the content of the exchanges and the method of correction of the two partners.
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It is worth adding that these language exchanges are possible in English, German and Spanish at the University of Lorraine.
Advantages of the exchange
Anyone interested in improving their skills in a foreign language can take part in these exchanges and establish a work program that meets their needs. Students can thus improve their language skills while developing their ability to communicate.
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Unlike during a course, both students have a long speaking time. Students discover each other’s culture and deepen their linguistic knowledge in the target language. In addition, by teaching their own mother tongue, students rediscover and deepen their own language skills. Students wishing to become teachers of a foreign language then have the opportunity to experiment pedagogy.
Laura's personal opinion on this exchange
I chose to participate in an e-tandem to practice oral expression and comprehension which, I think, are my two weaknesses in English. Indeed, having not worked enough on oral comprehension in secondary school, it penalised me in high school and then at the university, where my weaknesses only increased. This exchange helped me improve my comprehension and oral skills. I had to overcome my shyness and French accent.
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In addition, discussion on selected topics stimulates interest in the target language and promotes learning. This exchange enabled me to learn more about the country, the culture, the language and the habits of my partner. I revised my own mother tongue from an educational perspective, and this educational experience cannot but be beneficial for my professional project.