Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I improve my Thai in Auckland and what are the possibilities in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using recorded courses, you have four principal options for learning Thai interactively in Auckland. 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 better priced.) Your 2nd possibility can be local commercial language academies that are better priced and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, non-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Fourth, you can look for a private Thai tutor in Auckland. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Auckland and online Thai tutors.
🎟 Is it cheap to learn Thai and what are the ballpark lesson costs for Thai tutors?
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 instruction hours each semester. Language schools and private Thai tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the better priced Thai tutors can be found online, with costs on Preply averaging 18 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor country of residence, experience and specialization. Real student rating average for Thai lessons on Preply is 4.97 out of 5 stars.
📚 What are the requirements for Thai language skill level to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared prove your profeciency level. All classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework load and exams, so research all such requirements in advance. With personal Thai tutors you can read real feedback for whom the tutor is effective with and which other add-ons they make available (like teaching children or teens, etc.) For maximum flexibility, choose a tutor from many teaching online.
🔥 Why is Thai not easy and are there ways to learn it more effectively?
One-size-fits-all 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 most phrases, express yourself, do most everyday tasks 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 Thai. After mastering basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Thai tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced students.
🤷 How long does it take to learn Thai?
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 Thai will take at least 600 hours of dedication. The length of time can differ significantly depending on your already acquired level of Thai or proficiency in other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is advised to use the language as often as possible: watch videos, 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 Thai out loud. If you're struggling when starting a discusssion you can also take conversational Thai classes online.
🤳 What are my options when choosing the Thai teacher?
In language learning academies, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from the ones who already work there). Online, always! The largest selection of verified Thai tutors with extensive profiles and true reviews is available on online language learning marketplaces like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges offer classes twice a week over a semester (75-day period). Language schools typically 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.