The language tandem programme is an informal friendly way to practise different languages. And that's not all! As well as getting a partner to improve your language skills, the programme encourages you to interact with people from different cultures. It's a win-win for everyone.

For international students at the UIB, your language partner will help you to learn the native culture and language of the Balearic Islands and the UIB, Catalan.

For local students, a language partner will help you to improve your foreign language skills.

Taking part in the programme is straightforward: just register online and commit to spending at least one hour a week on it (or as many as you wish). The coordination team will assign you a partner and you can get chatting.

No language partner yet? Then...

Find your match!

Report on language partners in 'Brisas' magazine (28^th March 2018) - Spanish

What is the language partner programme?

Description

• A language exchange is a fun way to practise languages. It involves two people who speak different languages getting together for a set number of sessions, so that each of them can practise the other’s language
• Language exchange sessions can be face-to-face, online or a combination of both
• Language exchanges complement formal language learning and are mainly used to practise oral language skills
• Additionally, language exchanges are a great opportunity to experience and gain an insight into aspects of other cultures.

Practical tips

• Set a regular time and date for sessions, based on both partners’ availability
• Set the length of each session and how long each language will be spoken (a 50/50 split for each language is recommended)
• Look for common interests that you can use to spark language practice. These may include everyday activities (e.g. going shopping), cultural activities (e.g. visiting a museum) and asking for information (e.g. different services)
• Make a list of possible places to hold sessions (a bar, a library, a park, a cultural or sporting event, etc). Bear in mind that using different venues can make sessions more fun
• Consider contacting other language exchange partners with a view to organising joint activities
• If you and your partner are unable to meet up face-to-face for a given session, why not try social media (Skype, Facebook, Twitter, chat, e-mail, WhatsApp, etc.) to stick to your agreed schedule.