Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I improve my Korean in Petaluma, CA and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with apps, you have four key opportunities for learning Korean interactively in Petaluma, CA. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, read about centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are better priced.) Your other resource can be local private language academies that cost less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, government-supported learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Fourth, you can find a private Korean tutor in Petaluma, CA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Petaluma, CA and online Korean tutors.
Is it affordable to learn Korean and what are the ballpark lesson costs for Korean tutors?
For university and college courses you can estimate Korean course cost by dividing annual tuition by ten (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the cost of fifty or so class hours each semester. Language centers and independent Korean tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with private classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the better priced Korean tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 23 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor geography, experience and student demand. Customer review average for Korean lessons on Preply is 4.95 out of 5 stars.
How much Korean do I need to know to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared demonstrate proof of your current level. Planned classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework level and tests, so research those in advance. With personal Korean tutors you can read reviews and get a good idea for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like intermediate level practice, advanced students etc.) For better flexibility, choose a tutor from those teaching online.
Why is Korean so challenging and are there ways to learn it in a better way?
One-size-fits-all language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Korean. As proven by others before, you can gain basic Korean fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback a few hours a week you will be able to understand everyday phrases, have simple conversations, get proficient in daily routines in about a year. Offline interaction is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a rapid and enjoyable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Korean. After attaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Korean tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced learners.
How long does it take to get better at speaking Korean?
Some people seem to have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Korean will demand at least 600 hours of practice. The actual range of time can differ quite a bit depending on your available level of Korean or proficiency in other languages in the same group. As soon as you've learned the basics it is advised to use the language as often as possible: watch news and movies, write by hand and online using your new language skills, find native speakers to speak with, try other ways to think and speak in Korean out loud. If this is a greater challenge than you had anticipated you can also take conversational Korean classes online.
Can I choose my own Korean teacher?
In language centers, there's a likelyhood you could choose your own tutor (from the ones who already work there). Online, of course! The largest selection of verified Korean tutors with video profiles and true reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
What time of day and on which days are classes available?
Colleges usually run classes twice a week over a semester (75-day period). Language schools typically make available shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, allows the flexibility to schedule lessons around your commitments, on weekdays and/or weekends.