Conversation Cafe (ConCaf)

What is “Conversation Cafe”?
Conversation Cafe is an arrangement for learners who want additional language practice and aims to provide a means of contact between native and non-native speakers of any particular language. This is an environment where people can enjoy tea and snacks from around the world and chat with their conversation partners. Meetings can be held at the International Center or any location of your choice.

How can I find a Language Partner?
Learners wanting to take part in this scheme can direct questions or concerns to the Coordinator: Loutfi Jirari, loutfijirari@depauw.edu or call 765.658.6697. In addition, you will need to go to the Durham House and meet with Loutfi Jirari and register by filling up a request form. Next, students will be paired with partners that are suitable to them. Making the initial contact is up to you. When, where and how often you meet is negotiated between you.

What do we do in the meeting?
The idea is that you offer one half hour conversation in your own language (your mother tongue) in return for half hour of conversation in the foreign language.
To make the most of your meeting, it’s important to set yourself a task or language focus before the meeting.

Report Disruptive Behavior
The goal is to achieve a positive and relaxed environment for language learning. Abusive behavior will not be tolerated. If anyone is being inconsiderate, gently (politely) remind him or her of these language exchange guidelines. If the person repeatedly disrupts your practice, or doesn't respect everyone's practice time, please inform me about it.

Conversation Cafe Meetings Guidelines

Be Prepared - Respect everyone's practice time
• Think of a topic for each meeting and prepare it in advance.
• Make sure everyone gets equal practice time.
• If you don't know how to say something in your second language, feel free to say it in your first language!

Suggested topics:
1. Slang and everyday language
2. Customs and festival
3. Famous Landmarks
4. Telephone Manner, etc

Take Charge of Your Own Learning
• Ask for explanations immediately when something is not clear - it's your responsibility to say so.
• Feel free to ask your partners to repeat, explain or translate when you don't understand something - this is the whole reason behind Conversation Cafe: for you to be able to follow the conversation and participate!
• Ask your partners to slow down if they speak too fast.

Be Sensitive to Your Partners' Needs
• When speaking in your own language, please keep in mind that you're doing this so your partners can practice - encourage him/her to participate, and make sure he/she can follow the conversation.
• Explain, repeat, write down or translate when necessary, and slow down if your partners ask you to.
• If someone says a word that you don't understand (because of poor pronunciation, for example), just ask them to write it down, then say it for them. Pronunciation is important!

Be Considerate
• Speak loudly and clearly - think of when you give an address over the phone.
• Make sure everyone has a chance to speak - don't monopolize the conversation.
• Develop a listening attitude.

Practice Regularly, and Have Fun!
• Practice regularly. You need regular, quality practice to see results. It's also easier to organize if you practice regularly with the same partners.
• Relax and enjoy!

Conversation Cafe Documents
Conversation Cafe Request Form

Loutfi Jirari
Center for International & Experiential Education
Durham House
309 E. Seminary Street
Greencastle, IN 46135 USA
Tel: (765) 658-6697
Fax: (765) 658-4045
Email: loutfijirari@depauw.edu