Elective course: Language tandem 3224-PRZEDF106TANDEM

The course is conducted within the “Integrated Teaching & Learning Development Programme - ZIP 2.0”, which is co-financed by the European Social Fund - the European Funds for Social Development Programme 2021-2027 (FERS) (contract no.: FERS.01.05-IP.08-0365/23-00)

"Language Tandem" is a course that combines practical foreign language with the development of intercultural, communication, and pedagogical competencies. The classes are based on a partnership-based model of mutual learning, in which participants alternate between the roles of language learner and language learning facilitator. The course is aimed at students of various nationalities. The inaugural edition focuses on participants from Poland and Uzbekistan interested in developing language skills, learning about each other's cultures, and gaining practical experience in education and mentoring. The course consists of two components: an organizational and workshop component conducted in person, and a practical component involving individual work in Polish-Uzbek language tandems via online meetings. In both the first and second parts, students may consult with their instructors regarding organizational and substantive matters. Halfway through the individual work component, each pair is required to schedule an online meeting with their instructor to discuss their progress and collaboration thus far.

I. Organizational and workshop component The course begins with an in-person organizational and workshop meeting, during which students are introduced to the principles of the language tandem method, the rules of mutual learning, and the logistics of organizing meetings and documenting progress. Key topics will include techniques for supporting foreign language learning, planning educational activities, providing feedback, and adapting communication methods to the partner's needs and language proficiency level. During this phase, special emphasis will be placed on the partnership nature of the tandem relationship, mutual responsibility for the learning process, the development of active listening skills, and the creation of an open, supportive atmosphere of cooperation.

II. Practical component - language tandem The core of the course consists of 12 online meetings (teaching units) conducted in Polish-Uzbek language pairs. Participants—either independently or with the support of the instructors—schedule the meetings, plan the topics, and select materials and working methods based on their individual educational needs, interests, and language proficiency levels. Instruction covers Polish and Russian at proficiency levels determined by the specific pair's skills—ranging from A1 (basic) to B1 (intermediate) - in accordance with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). English (at level B1) serves as an auxiliary language of communication, facilitating the explanation of linguistic concepts, the formulation of instructions, and the resolution of any communication difficulties. Language training follows a dual track, incorporating both general and cultural topics. These two areas complement each other, enabling the development of practical language skills while simultaneously exploring the language's social and cultural context. General topics focus primarily on developing communication skills for everyday situations, such as introducing oneself and others, and describing family, living arrangements, interests, studies, leisure time, and daily activities. Participants practice asking and answering questions, engaging in simple conversations, formulating oral and written statements, and comprehending their partner's speech. The scope and difficulty level of the topics covered are tailored to the language proficiency and needs of the tandem partners. Cultural topics encompass selected aspects of Polish and Uzbek culture - specifically traditions, customs, holidays, daily life, social relations, academic culture, and chosen phenomena of contemporary culture. Participants explore cultural similarities and differences, learn to interpret communicative behaviors within their socio-cultural context, and develop an awareness of linguistic and cultural diversity. Developing basic teaching and mentoring skills is also a key element of the sessions. Participants gain experience in sharing knowledge about their own language and culture, explaining linguistic concepts, preparing simple educational materials, and helping their partner overcome communication challenges. By alternating between the roles of learner and learning facilitator, they develop skills in cooperation, empathy, providing constructive feedback, and reflecting on their own learning strategies.

Documenting work and summarizing the sessions Throughout the semester, participants are required to maintain a regular log of their tandem meetings, documenting the dates and course of the sessions, the topics covered, the materials and exercises used, and learning progress. The log also serves as a tool for self-reflection, enabling participants to identify difficulties, evaluate the effectiveness of the methods used, and plan the further development of their linguistic and teaching competencies. The course concludes with a wrap-up meeting with the instructors, during which participants present the results of their collaborative work, share experiences, and reflect on the development of their language skills.

Student workload includes: Participation in on-site classes - 6 hours Participation in 12 online tandem meetings - 24 hours Preparation for meetings, independent language learning development of teaching materials and contact with instructor - 20 hours Keeping a tandem learning journal and evaluating on progress - 10 hours Total: 60 hours (2 ECTS)