Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I skill up on Chinese in Chesterfield and what are the possibilities in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using special programs, you have four primary options for learning Chinese interactively in Chesterfield. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, check centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are cheaper.) Your 2nd option can be local for-profit language academies that charge less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, international learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Finally, you can choose a private Chinese tutor in Chesterfield. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Chesterfield and online Chinese tutors.
How expensive is it to learn Chinese and how much should Chinese tutors ask?
大学和大学课程可以estimate Chinese course cost as 1/10th of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the price of 45-48 course hours each semester. Language schools and individual Chinese tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the better priced Chinese tutors can be found online, with prices on Preply averaging 15 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, availability and specialization. Real student rating average for Chinese lessons on Preply is 4.92 out of 5 stars.
How much Chinese do I need to know to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared prove your profeciency level. Planned classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework load and tests, so research those in advance. With personal Chinese tutors you can read reviews and get a good idea for whom the tutor is effective with and which other extras they make available (like instruction for beginners, etc.) For better flexibility, choose a tutor from many teaching online.
Why is Chinese not easy and are there ways to learn it in a better way?
Standardized language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Chinese. Realistically, you can gain basic Chinese fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback 5 hours a week you will be able to understand many expressions, have simple conversations, socialize in about a year. Relocating is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a fast and enjoyable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Chinese. After acquiring basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Chinese tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced students.
How long does it take to get better at speaking Chinese?
Some people just have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Chinese will take at least 600 hours of practice. The actual range of time can differ significantly depending on your existing level of Chinese or proficiency in other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is a good idea to use the language as often as possible: watch news and movies, start a journal or write posts and comments using your new language skills, seek native speakers to speak with, try additional ways to think and speak in Chinese out loud. If it's more difficult than you had imagined you can also take conversational Chinese classes online.
What are my options when choosing the Chinese tutor?
In colleges and universities, there's a chance you can choose your own tutor (from select few). Online, always! The largest selection of tested Chinese tutors with detailed profiles and real student reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
What's the best time to schedule classes?
Colleges typically schedule classes twice a week over a semester (15-week period). Language schools give shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, you can choose your own lesson frequency and time, on weekdays and/or weekends.