Tandem language learning
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 person wants to learn. The tandem language learning experience steps away from the traditional learning pedagogy, removing the teacher-student model. Many language schools in the world, organized as TANDEM International, as well as many universities, implement this approach. Background. Tandem language learning is available in multiple deliverable teaching practices. The most common type of tandem learning is for both participants to meet in-person, face-to -face (face-to-face tandem). With the emergence of communicative technology in the 1990s, etandem (also called distance tandem) provided a communication bridge via e-mail, allowing partners to practice writing a foreign language. Tele-collaboration places emphasis on cultural integration and intercultural understandings as part of the language-learning process. Within tandem exchanges, language learning takes place in the context of a “reciprocated autonomous” exchange, meaning participants each take part in learning each others’ languages. Time is equally divided so that the exchange of language learning is fairly distributed. 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 (lower B1 threshold). The Common European Framework of References for Languages' ( CEFR) Can-Do statements provide a clear description of language ability at the threshold level (B1) 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'. The following are some of the most important highlights: Benefits. Improvement in language skill. At first, professional discussion primarily centred on the question of the effectiveness of tandem in comparison  with traditional language teaching methodologies. This initiated an investigation carried out in 1983 at the Madrid Goethe-Institute, in which tandem pairs, a tandem course and teacher-steered phases were connected with each other and the linguistic progress was compared to a control group, who were also preparing for the 'Zertifikat DaF'. Results showed that the Tandem participants got better results in listening comprehension and speaking skills while they were less successful in reading and writing, even if their performance in the certificate as a whole was just as good as the control group. Another advantage was mutual mistake correction , which was fostered by increased language intake. Development of intercultural competence. Not only is Tandem concerned with language comprehension and learning, but equally with cultural understanding and knowledge. Accordingly, a critical analysis of the competence component must also examine this second ‘leg’. In fact, it turns out that Tandem aids a change of perspective, with the comparison of one’s own and foreign points of view. Tandem learning exposes the participant to the native speaker's culture naturally providing an inviting informal environment for relaxed engagement. The autonomous nature of language exchange provides the participant to experience different perspectives of  world views, which helps shape attitudes of respect, openness, curiosity, and discovery. This is also very helpful during translator training. Moreover, native speakers report an increase of awareness about their own language in the course of the Tandem. Therefore, it seems to be suitable as a ‘confidence booster’ in learning contexts. Cormier Method. Devised by Helene Cormier, a language teacher at Club d'échange linguistique de Montréal language school (CELM), the Cormier method is based on instructions in which small groups of learners with different mother tongues interact for in-tandem learning to occur. The participants develop conversations that are aimed  to consolidate developed skills in the areas of listening, comprehension, vocabulary and pronunciation. Participants of this language exchange can experience how native speakers interact through text, voice and video chat. The sessions take about roughly one hour, in which the participants speak in one language for thirty minutes and then switch to the other language for the following thirty minutes. Additionally, through this experience the learners have the chance to learn something from their peers’ culture by using the target language accordingly. There are five recommendations that should be taken into account in order to develop sessions with the Cormier  method. These include: Advantages: Disadvantages: As this method is primarily for practising, it should not be the main source of language learning and should be seen as a review or a tool that helps learners improve their language learning skills. Cormier’s method is a simple approach to e-tandem learning that has clearly had success, particularly with the use of Skype. Implementing such a method is possible with relative ease, but there are drawbacks as previously discussed. However, with an abundance of new technologies emerging, different and improved approaches to that of Cormier may have even greater success in  the future. These tools could be utilised to incorporate language-learning beginners, as well as improve upon the accessibility to learners in countries where Skype may not be available. Alternative digital tools such as Google Hangouts, Viber, ooVoo, WeChat and many more means that e-tandem learning and telecollaboration will be an area of language learning that continues to grow and prosper. Drawbacks to tandem language learning. Tandem language learning is in theory a great idea that reaps various linguistic and cultural benefits. Students of different nationalities can learn from each other for free. However, there are various reasons that  may not allow this to work.