Deepening Our Partnership with the University of Potsdam – Real-Life Language Practice in 1:1 Conversations

We’re excited to announce a new chapter in our cooperation with the University of Potsdam! Under the leadership of Dr. Torsten Andreas (Department of Didactics for German as a Foreign and Second Language), students from the University connected digitally with learners at GISA for the first time – in 1:1 video conversations that offered valuable and authentic learning moments for all participants.

The main goal? To create challenging but encouraging speaking situations where our students could apply vocabulary and grammar skills in meaningful conversations. The one-on-one setting gave each learner the opportunity to express themselves more freely and receive individual feedback and support – with conversation topics ranging from hobbies and family life to school experiences and future dreams.

For the Potsdam student teachers, this was a unique chance to put their theoretical knowledge into practice by teaching online in a one-on-one format – while also sharpening their intercultural competence in a global context.

Preparation was key: In the days before the Zoom calls, our students read the Potsdam students’ personal profiles, drafted their own questions, and tested them in peer interviews. Then, on Friday, it was time – for the first time, our learners independently held German-language conversations with their assigned partners from Potsdam. A wonderful, enriching experience that they thoroughly enjoyed!

Our special thanks go to Benjamin Akrong and Bernard Adjei Boateng, who have been guiding the group with dedication and expertise since March. The students have already made impressive progress in German – and this project marks an exciting step forward in their learning journey.

This promising collaboration shows how international partnerships can enrich language education – and we look forward to many more inspiring encounters!