Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I skill up on Chinese in Fremont, CA and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using mobile applications, you have a few main possibilities for learning Chinese interactively in Fremont, CA. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, ask about the centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are less pricey.) Your other option can be local specialized language academies that are better priced and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, not-for-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. 4th and last, you can opt for a private Chinese tutor in Fremont, CA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Fremont, CA and online Chinese tutors.
Is it affordable to learn Chinese and how much should Chinese tutors ask?
For university and college courses you can estimate Chinese course cost by dividing annual tuition by ten (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the overall charge for 1/2 of a hundred course hours each semester. Language centers and independent Chinese tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Chinese tutors can be found online, with costs on Preply averaging 13 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor hometown, experience and specialization. Average student satisfaction for Chinese lessons on Preply is 4.92 out of 5 stars.
What are the requirements for Chinese language skill level to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared to show a language test profeciency score or take an entrance test to determine your level. Planned classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework commitment and testing, so research those in advance. With personal Chinese tutors you can find out in advance for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like classes for students of A, B, or C leves, etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from those teaching online.
Why is Chinese so difficult and are there ways to learn it faster?
One-size-fits-all language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Chinese. According to experts, you can gain basic Chinese fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback a few hours a week you will be able to understand most phrases, express yourself, socialize in about a year. Finding native speakers is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a rapid and fun way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Chinese. After attaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Chinese tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced speakers.
How long does it take to learn Chinese?
Some people have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Chinese will require at least 600 hours of study. The amount of time can differ significantly depending on your already acquired level of Chinese or proficiency in other languages in the same group. As soon as you've learned the basics it is a good idea to use the language as often as possible: watch television, start a journal or write posts and comments using your new language skills, look for native speakers to speak with, try other ways to think and speak in Chinese out loud. If you're struggling when starting a discusssion you can also take conversational Chinese classes online.
How many possibilities do I choose among when I select the right Chinese instructor?
In learning centers, there's a likelyhood you could choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, certainly! The largest selection of pre-screened Chinese tutors with extensive profiles and true reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
What's the best time to schedule classes?
Colleges usually offer classes two times weekly over a semester (75-day period). Language schools offer shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, the number of lessons is really up to you, with early morning, day, evening and night classes available, on weekdays and/or weekends.