Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How can I master Chinese in Austin, TX and is possible to go light in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with mobile applications, you have several principal choices for learning Chinese interactively in Austin, TX. 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 less pricey.) Your 2nd option can be local private 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 Chinese tutor in Austin, TX. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Austin, TX and online Chinese tutors.
🎟 Is it cheap to learn Chinese and what do Chinese tutors charge?
For university and college courses you can estimate Chinese course cost by dividing annual tuition by 10 (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the cost of 1/2 of a hundred class hours each semester. Language schools and private Chinese tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the most budget-friendly Chinese tutors can be found online, with rates on Preply averaging 14 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor country of residence, positive reviews and specialization. Customer review average for Chinese lessons on Preply is 4.95 out of 5 stars.
📚 What are the requirements for Chinese language skill level to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared prove your profeciency level. 'Canned' classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework commitment and exams, so research each program in advance. With personal Chinese tutors you can read reviews and get a good idea for whom the tutor is effective with and which other expertise they make available (like classes for adults, etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from a wide selection of those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Chinese not easy and are there ways to learn it more effectively?
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 five hours a week you will be able to understand everyday expressions, have simple conversations, get proficient in daily routines in about a year. Finding native speakers is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a fast and enjoyable 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 require at least 600 hours of practice. The amount of time can differ significantly depending on your available level of Chinese or knowledge of other languages in the same group. As soon as you've learned the basics it is recommended to use the language as often as possible: watch videos, 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 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 instructor?
In colleges and universities, there's a chance you can choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, of course! The largest selection of approved Chinese tutors with full 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 typically schedule classes twice a week over a semester (15-week period). Language schools as a rule give shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, you can choose your own lesson frequency and time, on weekdays and/or weekends.