Language matters...
The German language in Austria
Standard German (Hochdeutsch) is the language of instruction in Austria, on all levels of education. All educated Austrians speek standard German.
As in all German-speaking nations (and most other countries), regional varieties of the language exist, especially of intonation and some syntactical patterns, used mainly between first language speakers (often as a token of 'belonging'). On the lexical level there are a handful terms denoting food, drink or the produce that some of us claim very 'Austrian'. Examples range from Semmel for 'Brötchen', Topfen for 'Quark' (a type of curds), Jägertee/Jagertee for a tea with Schnaps... to
some administrative terms, and gems such as Marillen for 'Aprikosen'. Not a problem, really...
Foreign language learning and teaching in Austria
As a former multicultural/multinational country (the heartland of the Austrian Empire), and with five neighbouring countries where German is not the first language, Austria is one of Europe's most advanced countries as regards awareness of the need for effective MFL acquisition, and the development and implementation of sophisticated methodology.
Graz has two key agencies promoting MFL learning
The city of Graz is fortunate to have two prestigious institutions in this sector: the Council of Europe's European Centre for Modern Languages (ECML, http://www.ecml.at), an international agency responsible for European concept and policy development, conferences etc. for all member countries; and Sprachen-Kompetenz-Zentrum (http://www.oesz.at), the Austrian (national) agency that develops and coordinates language learning in Austria, following and adapting European Union and Council of Europe legislation and guidelines.
English language learning in Austria: from kindergarten to adult education
Most Austrians of student age will have started English in Early Learning or in kindergarten; all in primary school. This makes for easy communication with other speakers of English - at least in basic or intermediate language use.
English spoken? or German?
Being able to listen to spoken English and using it are very welcome to many Austrian students, as they can practice their English: however, speaking English most of the time may not be the best choice for exchange students (for obvious reasons).
Among students on EU programmes, German is often the one language they share, and/or are aiming to learn or improve - hence it is usually best to use German for everyday communication.
In nearly all lectures and seminars, German is the language of choice. A grounding in the language is indispensable, if you wish to reap the maximum educational and social benefit of your stay. Lecturers are aware, of course, that German is some of our international students' second language, and will act in the best interest of all participants.
Students' previous German language skills
Intending students should have some basic knowledge of German; and/or a strong motivation to invest time and effort in their language acquisition.
German as a foreign or second language at CUCE Graz
German as a foreign or as a second language is taught to small groups of foreign students, to facilitate their language acquisition, particularly with classroom language; knotty points of grammar; and social purposes.