Need for Action

Functional multilingualism arises through active participation. Different languages are used in different situations. Perfect command of the languages is not required. What matters is the willingness to use languages in everyday life and to learn from one another, so that communication works well for everyone involved.

What can I do?
  • I take advantage of the language learning opportunities offered by the Language Center and continue to develop my language skills.
  • I make use of the opportunities offered by the European university alliance EUNICE for linguistic and cross-cultural development (including job shadowing, online language courses, and staff weeks).
  • I support, initiate, and/or participate in informal multilingual activities, such as tandem programs or language exchange initiatives.
  • I make documents and websites available in two languages (German/English) whenever possible.
  • Communications to larger groups are automatically translated and sent in two languages.
  • I indicate (e.g., in my email signature or on my office door) the languages in which I am able to communicate effectively.
  • I am willing to switch between languages if it helps ensure understanding and do not expect a perfect level of proficiency from myself or my conversation partners.
  • I encourage students and staff to support each other linguistically, e.g., through study groups with mixed language backgrounds.
  • I use digital tools such as DeepL.com or other apps for written and oral communication.
  • I share multilingual posts on my department’s social media channels (e.g., Instagram, LinkedIn).
What is being implemented at institutional level?
  • Language learning opportunities (e.g., through ZE Sprachen and EUNICE) are supported and expanded to promote multilingualism.
  • Key documents and information are increasingly made available in two languages (German/English).
  • Employees’ intercultural competence is promoted, e.g., through international mobility programs (Staff Weeks), continuing education via Erasmus+, or certificate programs in international competence.
  • Evaluation of digital solutions for committees (automatic provision of subtitles in German/English) to ensure opportunities for participation for all.
  • Development of a glossary for consistent terminology.
  • The campus will be fully bilingual in its signage.

We plan to further develop these options and expand them based on concrete experience. Please let us know where you see positive examples and where there is still room for improvement.

If you have any questions or suggestions, please contact: mehrsprachigkeit(at)b-tu.de