In the countries of EU there are increasingly popular programs and projects in the framework of “Training of a lifetime” (within the meaning of Bologna process) to all comers. These programs are based on autonomy in obtaining competencies. On November 26 was held the first meeting in the framework of an innovative method of “Tandem” language learning organized by Department of Russian Language. “Tandem” method first appeared in Europe in 60-es of the twentieth century and was actively developed in 70-80-s. Now it is also widely used in foreign universities. This method of language learning is based on forming pairs of speakers of different languages and the subsequent linguistic exchange between them.

The aim of the language tandem is learning the language of your partner by exploring his or her personality, culture and traditions of his or her country, as well as communication on different conversational topics. Directions of communication in the real “Tandem” are not spontaneous, determined by work sheets. “Tandem” is a great support in adoption of Russian language by the students of the foreign department. At the same time, it is a good speech practice for English language learners.

During the first “Tandem”, the students spoke on the topic “My family”. Then each of the participants told the companion about their family. This meeting helped not only to deepen the knowledge of language, but also to learn a lot about the culture and family traditions.

- I am grateful to the teachers of Russian language that they invited us to this meeting. “Tandem” is a very exciting and interesting way of learning a language. I would like to visit “Tandem” regularly, says Chorion Sharma, 1-year student of foreign department of “General medicine” specialty.

 Starting from this moment “Tandem” will work on a regular basis. Everyone will be able to come to the meeting on Saturday to the Dormitory No. 7, Auditorium No. 101 at 12:00 o'clock. “Tandem” invites students of KSMU, who are native Chinese speakers, as well as the students who speak Russian and study Chinese language.