1. I’m interested in a language tandem. Who is allowed to participate?
Our tandem program is open to all students at the University of Potsdam.
2. I’m not a student at the University of Potsdam. Can I still use the database to search for a tandem partner?
You will need a moodle account to search the tandem database. If you are not a student at the Uni Potsdam, you can ask ZIM about guest access.
You can also post your request on our bulletin boards, which are located in the Zessko Media Centers at the Neues Palais and Griebnitzsee campuses.
3. I haven’t found a suitable partner in the database. How can I keep looking?
It’s best if you look regularly for new entries, both online and on our bulletin boards, because people from outside the university also post their searches there.
The tandem tutor can also help you with your search. Just write us an email!
4. I just started learning a foreign language a couple of months ago. Should I start a tandem now?
We would advise against starting a tandem as a newcomer to the language. It’s best if you attain B1 level language skills before entering a tandem.
It is also important that your tandem partner’s language level is not too different from your own. That can make learning in a tandem difficult.
5. I’ve found a tandem partner. What happens next?
Please look at our moodle page, "Introducing to learning in tandems". There you’ll find important tips for getting started.
1. Which language combinations does the course cover?
The course is for all languages; multiple language combinations are possible.
2. How can I register for the course?
Registration is done viaPULS. You will be admitted to the course once you have found a tandem partner.
3. By what time do I have to have found a tandem partner to guarantee admission to the course?
By the first workshop at the latest, every participants must have found a tandem partner; otherwise, it is not possible to participate in the course.
4. Does my tandem partner have to be a student at the Uni Potsdam?
No. You can also do a language tandem with someone who is studying at another university or is not even enrolled at a university.
5. How much time should I plan on spending for a supervised tandem?
To take part in the course, you need to have found a tandem partner who agrees to study at least 75 hours in a tandem.
Also, you have to participate in the mandatory course dates and schedule three supervision appointments.
Where can I find materials and exercise ideas for my tandem?
You can find a few links on our website to topics and proposals for your tandem.
In addition, our tandem tutor can advise you, whether in the Media Center or per email.
University of Potsdam
Zessko - Independent Study - Tandem
Am Neuen Palais 10
14469 Potsdam
Tel.: +49 331 977-4024
Fax: +49 331 977-1340
E-Mail: sprachentandemuni-potsdamde