There are two important principles that facilitate the language learning partnership.

The reciprocity principle (principle of learning in partnership) states that both language partners benefit equally from the cooperation. Both contribute skills that the other wants to acquire and both language partners support each other's learning process. The autonomy principle (principle of self-determined learning) states that everyone is responsible for their own learning process. In other words, everyone decides for themselves on learning goals and methods, what is to be learned, how and when, and what support they would like to receive from their language partner.

In order to avoid any feeling of being disadvantaged, make sure that the time is divided as equally as possible.

A language tandem is suitable for all those who want to learn a new language or refresh slumbering language skills, as well as for those who would like to learn something about a different country and culture.

For a conversation to be possible at all, you should have at least a rudimentary knowledge of the foreign language. The best time to start a language tandem is when you have reached at least the first and preferably the second learning level of a foreign language. For self-assessment, you can use the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) as a guide. Accordingly, you should have at least A2 level (elementary language use). Now you can take part in the language tandem and (in addition to the conventional language lessons in a group) build up an individual language learning partnership with your language partner.