Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I improve my Thai in Anchorage, AK and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using mobile applications, you have 4 main options for learning Thai interactively in Anchorage, AK. 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 cheaper.) Your other resource can be local for-profit language academies that cost less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, not-for-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Fourth, you can find a private Thai tutor in Anchorage, AK. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Anchorage, AK and online Thai tutors.
🎟 Is it expensive to learn Thai and what does a lesson with a tutor of Thai cost?
For university and college courses you can estimate Thai course cost by dividing annual tuition by 10 (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the price of 45-48 lesson hours each semester. Language academies and private Thai tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the less pricey Thai tutors can be found online, with prices on Preply averaging 18 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, experience and languages the tutor can teach in. Real student rating average for Thai lessons on Preply is 4.97 out of 5 stars.
📚 How much Thai do I need to know 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. All classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework commitment and tests, so research each program in advance. With personal Thai tutors you can find out in advance for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like teaching children or teens, etc.) For more flexibility, choose a tutor from those who are teaching online.
🔥 Why is Thai so difficult and are there ways to learn it more effectively?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Thai. As proven by others before, you can gain basic Thai fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback five hours a week you will be able to understand common expressions, 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 Thai. After acquiring basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Thai tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced speakers.
🤷 How long does it take to learn Thai?
Some people brag about their natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Thai will necessitate at least 600 hours of study. The amount of time can differ a lot depending on your existing level of Thai 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 television, start a journal or write posts and comments using your new language skills, try to communicate with native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in Thai out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational Thai classes online.
🤳 Can I pick my own Thai teacher?
In learning centers, there's a chance you can choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, certainly! The largest selection of approved Thai tutors with video profiles and true reviews is available on online language learning platforms like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges usually structure classes twice a week over a semester (75-day period). Language schools make available shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, you can take as few as one lesson a year, as many as several a day - and as many (or as few) as you want during any time of day, on weekdays and/or weekends.