The International Master´s Team of the University of Applied Sciences and Arts (FH Dortmund) has launched the Blended Language Learning pilot project, an initiative funded by the university to support students in developing their German language skills through a new, innovative, and flexible learning model. The project is coordinated at the Institute for the Digital Transformation of Application and Living Domains (IDiAL) at FH Dortmund and focuses on combining blended language learning with on-site support to enhance the learning experience of international master´s students.
The project is implemented in cooperation with Berlitz Deutschland GmbH, which provides a highly professional and established blended learning platform. Through Berlitz On Demand, students gain access to structured digital learning content, interactive exercises, and standardized language assessments aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
The Blended Language Learning project combines digital self-paced learning with coaching sessions offered by FH Dortmund in cooperation with Berlitz Deutschland GmbH. This blended approach is designed to support students not only in independent language acquisition but also through personal guidance, motivation, and structured learning support.
As part of this pilot phase, the project aims to evaluate whether students can significantly improve their German language skills within a period of 12 months using this blended learning format. A central objective of the project is to measure students’ learning progress and to assess the effectiveness of combining digital learning with targeted coaching sessions.
With this pilot project, the University of Applied Sciences and Arts (FH Dortmund) initially targets students enrolled in the international master’s programmes European Master in Project Management (EuroMPM), Embedded Systems Engineering (ESE) andMaster Digital Transformation (MDT). These programmes serve as the first testing group for evaluating the effectiveness of the blended language learning approach. In the long term, the project aims to make the blended learning programme available to all students and exchange students at FH Dortmund. The ultimate goal is to establish the programme as a cross-departmental offering, accessible university-wide and integrated into existing student support structures.
The team of the International Master’s Programmes emphasises that learning German is an essential part of the student journey when studying in Germany. Language competence plays a crucial role in academic success, social integration, and future career opportunities.
The Blended Language Learning pilot project represents an important step toward establishing German language learning as an integral and sustainable part of the international student experience at FH Dortmund.
Project Name: Blended Language Learning
Project Responsible: Hermina Motruk, hermina.motruk@fh-dortmund.de
Project period: Jan.-Dec. 2026
