Frequently Asked Questions

No, our group was created during the pandemic and most of us were looking how to reconnect with other people and / or maintain language proficiency. Thanks to the Meetup app / website, we have placed ourselves under the "Honolulu Language Club" and have been able to keep our meetings free of charge.

We usually begin with general announcements, if any, followed by introductions, especially if there are new people. Introductions will obviously include your name and usually one or two additional bits of information about yourself. These additional bits are sometimes predetermined -- and when they are predetermined, we notify you through the Meetup app -- and sometimes these bits are just answers to improv questions that we determine the day of our meeting. After introductions, we have an open forum of general language-related questions. Many members have questions that they have amassed during the week. After that, we do a grammar exercise to "warm you up." Lastly, for the remainder of the meeting, we break up into 1-to-1 groups to have a private language exchange with a designated partner. These smaller sessions usually last for about 30 minutes. If time permits, we may have a second small session. We conclude with a final opportunity for questions, announcements, etc.

Up until now, we haven't had to establish any firm rules because the people who attend our meetings so far have been thoughtful, humble and kind. We are individuals who share a common purpose of language exchange and social connection. The same tact you use at "family gatherings," should be applied here as well. We are not looking to censor anyone. After all, this is a language exchange. If you do want to bring up topics like politics, religion, and / or cultural nuances, please do so in a respectful manner knowing that others may have a different opinion than yours.

Some of us bring a pen and pad to write notes, some of us use the memo apps on our smartphones, and some of us don't bring anything. It's completely up to you.

Being "intermediate" is a very subjective term. The most important thing for a language exchange group is to be just that, a language exchange group. You must have a certain level of proficiency to participate in our exercises. If you are an absolute beginner, you are urged to self-study so that you can introduce yourselves, understand the basics of a conversation, and initiate some form of rudimentary reply. You will be expected to reply in your target language to the best of your ability. That being said, if you have the will, you are more than welcome to try. Feel free to email us at korengx.com@gmail.com.

We have had interest in the past for a beginner level group. We began an online pilot program which lasted for a few months via Skype. If there is adequate interest, we may be able to start it up again. Please email us if you are interested at korengx.com@gmail.com.

Some of us in the group have children and we are constantly thinking about how we can incorporate a children's language exchange. Why not have a "playdate" and language exchange at the same time? If there is adequate interest, we may be able to begin such an initiative. Please email us if you are interested at korengx.com@gmail.com.