Tandem language learning: Difference between revisions

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'''Tandem language learning''' is a method of [[language learning]] based on mutual [[language exchange]] between tandem partners, where ideally each learner is a native speaker in the language the other partyperson wants to learn. Many [[language school]]s in the world, organised as TANDEM International,<ref name="tandem-schools1">{{cite web|url=http://www.tandem-schools.com|title=Tandem International e.V., the Tandem schools group|last=|first=|date=|website=tandem-schools.com|accessdate=2016-01-20}}</ref> as well as many universities, implement this approach.

==Background==

In Tandem Languagelanguage Learninglearning both partners can meet in person (face-to-face Tandemtandem) or learn by e-mail, phone or other media (eTandem, also called Distance Tandem), placing emphasis on cultural integration as part of the language-learning process. Within tandem exchanges, language learning takes place in the context of a “reciprocated autonomous” exchange,{{sfn|Cappellini|2016}} this meansmeaning participants each take part in learning each others’ languages using an electronic tool in their own time. Time is equally divided so that the exchange of language learning is equallyfairly distributed.{{sfn|Cappellini|2016}} Learning is supported in different ways, for instance, via worksheets, textbooks or simply informal conversation. There are distinct uses of the Tandem method which promote independent learning e.g. Tandem Partnerships (two people, supported by counsellors), and Binational Tandem Courses (for groups, organised by moderators). The classic style is that where partners equally share the available time during the exchange. For example, a Portuguese speaker and a German speaker can talk for half an hour in German and then for half an hour in Portuguese. In this way, through language exchange partnerships with native speakers, and extra social and cultural experiences, participants become fully immersed in the target language culture. Learning is supported in different ways, for instance, via worksheets, textbooks or simply informal conversation. There are distinct uses of the Tandem method which promote independent learning e.g. Tandem partnerships (two people, supported by counsellors), and Binational Tandem Courses (for groups, organised by moderators). The only condition for participation in self-directed Tandem is to be at a lower intermediate level of language proficiency (Lowerlower B1 Thresholdthreshold). The Common European Framework of References for Languages' ( CEFR<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.coe.int/t/dg4/linguistic/cadre1_en.asp |title=Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, teaching, assessment (CEFR) |website=Coe.int |date=2014-03-29 |accessdate=2016-01-20}}</ref>) Can-Do statements provide a clear description of language ability at the Thresholdthreshold level (B1)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.eur.nl/english/ltc/alumni/cefr/b1/ |title=CEFR level B1 (Intermediate) |website=Eur.nl |date= |accessdate=2016-01-20}}</ref> in several European languages.

==History==

"Language learning by exchange" or the "Tandem Approach" is based on various systems of teaching exchange students abroad, such as: partner learning, "peer teaching", tutoring models and "Zweierschaften" (Steinig) or 'one-on-one discipleship'.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.linguee.com/german-english/translation/zweierschaft.html |title=zweierschaft - English translation – Linguee |website=Linguee.com |date= |accessdate=2016-01-20}}</ref>

The following are some of the most important highlights:<ref>{{cite web|title = TANDEM Fundazioa: history|url = http://tandemcity.info/general/en_history.htm|website = tandemcity.info|accessdate = 2015-10-10}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|url = https://books.google.com/?id=1CpgcAZWT5UC&pg=PA136&dq=history+tandem+schmelter#v=onepage&q&f=true|title = Schmelter, Selbstgesteuertes oder potenziell expansives Fremdsprachenlernen im Tandem, Gunter Narr Verlag Tübingen|date=2004|pages=134–149|accessdate =2016-01-20 |website =Books.google.es|isbn = 9783823361039|last1 = Schmelter|first1 = Lars}}</ref>