A Linguistic and Cultural Journey to Germany: Promoting Diversity through Tandem
Nine students from the German LLCER degree and the Franco-German course at the University of Reunion recently had the enriching opportunity to spend ten days in Germany, from March 8 to 16.
Accompanied by eleven students from Ruhr-Universität Bochum (RUB), this experience was much more than a simple linguistic immersion: it was a deep exploration of diversity, both linguistic and cultural.
The trip began with a weekend in Monschau (Monschau), nestled in the Eifel Mountains. This picturesque setting provided the ideal environment for students to get to know and become familiar with the Tandem methodology. In this relaxed environment, language barriers fell naturally, allowing participants to fully engage in intercultural exchange.
The following week was spent in Bochum, in the Ruhr, and focused around joint artistic work on a triptych focused on the theme of diversity. Guided by their common goals of strengthening their language skills and exploring diversity from different perspectives, the students formed pairs to collaborate on topics related to Reunion and the Ruhr.
Goals
The primary objective of this project was to improve the language skills of students in
working in tandem.
By working hand in hand with their German partners, Reunion students were able to perfect their mastery of the German language, while German students improved their French. This interactive approach allowed for mutual learning and an in-depth understanding of the linguistic and cultural nuances of each country.
However, beyond the linguistic aspect, the project also aimed to address the crucial theme of diversity.
By exploring the social, cultural and historical contexts of Réunion and the Ruhr, students were confronted with a variety of perspectives and realities. This immersion in diversity encouraged critical thinking and questioning biases, paving the way for greater understanding and tolerance.
More than a simple linguistic experience, the trip to Germany for students from the German LLCER and the Franco-German course, in partnership with the RUB, represents an adventure rich in discoveries, exchanges and learning, highlighting the importance diversity and Franco-German collaboration.
This project was made possible thanks to the financial support of the OFAJ* and the DAAD**, keen to promote intercultural dialogue and Franco-German meetings.
*Franco-German Youth Office
** German Academic Exchange Office