Language Tandem

The Language Tandem is a social engagement programme in which two SRH students with a common desire to improve their language skills get together and meet on various occasions (online or in person, cooking together, etc.). The programme promotes intercultural understanding: you get to know a fellow student with a different cultural background, and you improve your language proficiency at the same time.

In this programme you have the opportunity to be matched with a student with a different cultural background or a different mother tongue. You will meet at least 10 weeks.

During the ten weeks you and your matched partner will meet to improve each other’s language. At the end of the programme you will create a joint portfolio explaining what you did and learned together. A portfolio guide will be sent to you at the start of your tandem.

Upon successul completion of the programme, you will have the opportunity to receive an official certificate from SRH University Heidelberg.

In order to make the most out of this programme, you have to meet with your partner on a weekly basis, for at least 2 hours a week. Of course, you can do it by meeting on an online platform such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Whatsapp etc. However, we also suggest meeting somewhere outside, maybe take a walk at the Neckar River, in the old town of Heidelberg or meet for a coffee. It is also always a good idea to cook together and discover recipes from all over the world!

There are many topics that can be discussed during your tandem sessions. Here are some topics suggested by the International Office:

• Food culture
• Student life
• Hobbies
• Other cultures, abroad experiences, etc.
• Useful phrases that are commonly used in daily language
• Cultural differences, nonverbal expressions, do’s and don’ts
• General topics such as family, education, sports, movies, art, songs, etc.
• Working life and work ethics in a specific country

You will not only be practicing your target language with somebody who can help and teach you useful things about their language; you will also get a chance to learn about their culture and their way of seeing the world. This also gives you the possibility to meet new friends and broaden your own horizon.

Upon successul completion of the programme and submitting a well-done portfolio, you will be granted a certificate from SRH University Heidelberg.

These situations can happen and they should not be taken personally. Please reach out to the International Office and we will find a solution together. Very often, cultural and language differencies can lead to unintentional misunderstandings which can be easliy resolved!

The registration is open all the time, however you might need to wait some time for the International Office to find the best tandem for you. As soon as a suitable partner has been found, you will receive an introduction email and you can start the programme.