Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn Chinese in Arcata, CA and what are the possibilities in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using mobile applications, you have four main options for learning Chinese interactively in Arcata, 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 less pricey.) Your second resource can be local specialized language academies that charge 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 opt for a private Chinese tutor in Arcata, CA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Arcata, 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 as 1/10th of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for 45-48 instruction hours each semester. Language academies and individual Chinese tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the less pricey Chinese tutors can be found online, with rates on Preply averaging 14 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor geography, ratings and languages the tutor can teach in. Customer review average for Chinese lessons on Preply is 4.95 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. Predetermined curriculum classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework load and graded tasks, so research all such requirements in advance. With personal Chinese tutors you can read real feedback for whom the tutor is effective with and which other extras they make available (like classes for students of A, B, or C leves, etc.) For more flexibility, choose a tutor from many teaching online.
🔥 Why is Chinese so difficult and are there ways to learn it faster?
Standardized 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 5 hours a week you will be able to understand common words, have simple conversations, do most everyday tasks in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready 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 achieve a good level of Chinese?
Some people brag about their natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Chinese will necessitate at least 600 hours of dedication. The actual range of time can differ significantly depending on your available level of Chinese or proficiency in other languages in the same group. As soon as you've learned the basics it is best to use the language as often as possible: watch videos, try typing using your new language skills, look for native speakers to speak with, try as many as possible ways to think and speak in Chinese out loud. If this is a greater challenge than you had anticipated you can also take conversational Chinese classes online.
🤳 Can I choose my own Chinese instructor?
In learning centers, you can possibly choose your own tutor (from select few). Online, certainly! The largest selection of approved 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 as a rule offer classes twice a week over a semester (15-week period). Language schools give 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.