About FADAF
FADAF (Fachverband Deutsch als Fremd- und Zweitsprache e.V.) is the professional association for German as a Foreign and Second Language. It serves as an interest representation for learners, teachers, and institutions in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF) and German as a Second Language (DaZ).
Established to promote the learning of the German language and intercultural encounters, FADAF places special emphasis on understanding foreign cultures. The association aims to linguistically support international students studying in Germany, advocate for the interests of the DaF and DaZ disciplines and those working in this field, and promote the training and continuing education of teachers and academic professionals in German as a Foreign and Second Language.
As a forum for professional exchange, FADAF represents the interests of all those working in research and teaching in the fields of German as a Foreign Language and German as a Second Language. The association organizes the world's largest annual conference in DaF and DaZ, the "FaDaF-Jahrestagung," engages in European projects, and maintains cooperation and regular exchange with DaF/DaZ institutions at national and international levels.
Membership Requirements
While the specific requirements for institutional membership are not explicitly detailed on the website, FADAF membership is open to both natural persons (individuals) and legal entities (institutions) that are interested in the field and the work of the professional association. Member institutions would be expected to:
- Support the goals and objectives of FADAF
- Promote the learning of German language and intercultural understanding
- Maintain high standards in teaching German as a Foreign or Second Language
- Participate in professional development and exchange
- Adhere to the association's principles and guidelines
- Contribute to the advancement of the field of German language teaching
- Support the association's activities and initiatives
Complaint & Arbitration Procedure
The website does not provide specific information about formal complaint or arbitration procedures. However, as a professional association representing the interests of its members, FADAF likely has mechanisms in place to address concerns and mediate disputes related to its field of expertise. Members with issues would presumably contact the association's office (Geschäftsstelle) for guidance and support.
General Information
Year of Foundation: Not explicitly stated, but the association has been active for several decades
Total Number of Members: Approximately 850 members
Geographic Focus: Germany, with international connections
Organisation Type: Professional Association (registered association - e.V.)
Governance Structure:
- General Assembly (Mitgliederversammlung)
- Executive Board (Vorstand) - consisting of nine members who work in DaF at universities, Studienkollegs, or non-university institutions
- Advisory Board (Beirat) - advises the Executive Board on scientific and institutional matters
Key Activities:
- Representing DaF/DaZ teaching areas and Studienkollegs in higher education policy matters
- Supporting the interests of lecturers and students
- Improving the framework conditions for international students
- Developing professional and career-related foreign language training and education
- Promoting German language instruction in non-university settings
- Supporting the interests of teachers and institutions in non-university settings
- Supporting German scientists, lecturers, and other teachers of DaF at universities domestically and abroad
- Intensifying the exchange of opinions between DaF/DaZ institutions at the regional level
- Collaborating on projects within the European framework
- Organizing the annual FaDaF conference
- Publishing information and research in the field
Member Benefits:
- Association newsletters "fadaf-aktuell" and "fadaf aktuell online"
- Reduced conference fees
- Central information service at the association office
- Free shipping of FaDaF publications (Materials for German as a Foreign Language, DSH handbook, etc.)
Contact Information
Fachverband Deutsch als Fremd- und Zweitsprache e.V.
Geschäftsstelle
Georg-August-Universität Göttingen
(Address details not fully visible in the provided screenshots)
Website: https://www.fadaf.de/
Social Media:
- YouTube
Key Features:
- Represents approximately 850 members in the field of German as a Foreign and Second Language
- Organizes the world's largest annual conference in DaF and DaZ
- Provides professional development and networking opportunities
- Advocates for the interests of the field at policy level
- Supports research initiatives in German language teaching
- Promotes intercultural understanding through language learning
- Connects institutions and professionals across national and international networks