Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I improve my Dutch in Albany, NY and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with mobile applications, you have several key possibilities for learning Dutch interactively in Albany, NY. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, research centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are less pricey.) Your 2nd option can be local for-profit language academies that are cheaper and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, international learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Last, you can choose a private Dutch tutor in Albany, NY. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Albany, NY and online Dutch tutors.
🎟 How expensive is it to learn Dutch and how much should Dutch tutors ask?
For university and college courses you can estimate Dutch course cost by dividing annual tuition by 10 (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for 1/2 of a hundred course hours each semester. Language centers and independent Dutch tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the most budget-friendly Dutch tutors can be found online, with rates on Preply averaging 36 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, availability and languages the tutor can teach in. Average reviews for Dutch lessons on Preply is 4.93 out of 5 stars.
📚 What level of Dutch do I need 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. 'Canned' classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework load and testing, so research the details in advance. With personal Dutch tutors you can find out in advance for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like classes for adults, etc.) For maximum flexibility, choose a tutor from those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Dutch so challenging and are there ways to learn it the easy way?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Dutch. In reality, you can gain basic Dutch fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback five hours a week you will be able to understand many words, be understood when you talk, shop and place orders in about a year. Offline interaction is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a fast and affordable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Dutch. After mastering basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Dutch tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced speakers.
🤷 How long does it take to get better at speaking Dutch?
Some people brag about their natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Dutch will demand at least 600 hours of practice. The required duration of time can differ significantly depending on your available level of Dutch or familiarity with other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is recommended to use the language as often as possible: watch news and movies, write by hand and online using your new language skills, try to communicate with native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in Dutch out loud. If you're struggling when starting a discusssion you can also take conversational Dutch classes online.
🤳 Can I pick my own Dutch tutor?
In language learning academies, you can possibly choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, of course! The largest selection of pre-screened Dutch tutors with extensive profiles and customer reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 What time of day and on which days are classes available?
Colleges structure classes two times weekly over a semester (15-week period). Language schools usually 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.