Best Practices

For a practical exercise to succeed, students must first acquire the necessary background knowledge of the speciality subject before language is introduced. Once the language component is added, it simultaneously challenges and develops professional competence. The sequencing matters: teach the speciality-related task first, then incorporate the foreign-language element, so that students are not forced to process two (or more) new things at once. Otherwise both speciality-related skills and language skills may suffer.
Scenario-based applied exercises in which participants meet people who speak a foreign language are an effective way to build professional competence. These simulations mirror real-world situations. Role-player involvement is essential, and the aim is not to confine the interaction to a prescribed word list, but to let the situation unfold authentically.
Use language teachers as role players or observers—they add a linguistic and interactional dimension. Their pedagogical expertise can complement your speciality-related know-how.
Differentiate exercises when needed: some can focus more on the speciality-related aspect, others on language, the most effective combine both.
Exercises can include language as part of the assessment (e.g., an oral proficiency demonstration in English).
In professional interactions, the priority is to give the people involved accurate information, so they are aware of their rights and understand what is happening. Communication in a foreign language does not have to be flawless; what matters is mutual comprehension and that the people involved receive the necessary information—through an interpreter if required—in a form they can understand.
Document and share good practices—successful exercises, vocabulary lists, and models of collaboration—so new teachers can benefit from them.

What if Things Don't Go as Expected?

Don’t be discouraged: setbacks and challenges are part of the process and often lead to better results next time. Learn from them and move on.
Open communication: If problems arise, discuss them openly with language teachers and students. Work together to find solutions and test them in the next session.
Set smaller goals: Break down complex objectives into manageable steps. This helps students feel successful and stay motivated. Consider two-phase exercises: (1) operational activity in the native language; (2) the same in the foreign language focusing on key parts (e.g., greeting, a simple explanation of what the issue is about, along with the key questions and explanations related to it etc). This way, the student gains a sense of achievement and feels confident to move on to more challenging tasks.
Provide extra practice: If students struggle with language use in operational tasks, coordinate additional instruction or revision with language teachers before joint exercises.
Adapt to learning styles: Work with language teachers to identify students’ learning styles and adjust your teaching accordingly.
Seek peer support: Discuss and share experiences with colleagues and exchange best practices regularly.

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