Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I skill up on Chinese in Augusta, GA and is possible to go light in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with recorded courses, you have several main possibilities for learning Chinese interactively in Augusta, GA. 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 better priced.) Your 2nd possibility can be local commercial language academies that are better priced and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, not-for-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Last, you can choose a private Chinese tutor in Augusta, GA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Augusta, GA and online Chinese tutors.
🎟 Is it cheap to learn Chinese and what are the ballpark lesson costs for Chinese tutors?
For university and college courses you can estimate Chinese course cost by dividing annual tuition by ten (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the overall charge for 45-48 lesson hours each semester. Language centers and independent Chinese tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the better priced Chinese tutors can be found online, with rates on Preply averaging 13 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor hometown, positive reviews and popularity. Average reviews for Chinese lessons on Preply is 4.94 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 demonstrate proof of your current level. 'Canned' classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework load and graded tasks, so research each program in advance. With personal Chinese tutors you can find reviews for whom the tutor is effective with and which other expertise they make available (like teaching children or teens, etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Chinese so difficult and are there ways to learn it in a better way?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Chinese. As proven by others before, you can gain basic Chinese fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback five hours a week you will be able to understand everyday 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 ready and affordable 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 level practitioners.
🤷 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 demand at least 600 hours of practice. The actual range of time can differ a lot depending on your already acquired level of Chinese or familiarity with other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is advised to use the language as often as possible: watch television, start a journal or write posts and comments using your new language skills, seek native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in Chinese out loud. If you're struggling when starting a discusssion you can also take conversational Chinese classes online.
🤳 Can I choose my own Chinese teacher?
In learning centers, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, always! The largest selection of pre-screened Chinese tutors with video profiles and customer reviews is available on online language learning platforms like Preply.
🗓 What's the lesson schedule like?
Colleges usually offer classes two times weekly over a semester (75-day period). Language schools typically 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.