Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How can I master Chinese in Baltimore, MD and is possible to go light in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using special programs, you have several primary choices for learning Chinese interactively in Baltimore, MD. 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 other possibility can be local specialized 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 find a private Chinese tutor in Baltimore, MD. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Baltimore, MD and online Chinese tutors.
🎟 Is it cheap to learn Chinese and how much should Chinese tutors ask?
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 class hours each semester. Language academies and individual Chinese tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Chinese tutors can be found online, with rates on Preply averaging 13 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor hometown, experience and student demand. Average student satisfaction 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 demonstrate proof of your current level. 'Canned' classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework level and exams, so research the details in advance. With personal Chinese tutors you can find out in advance for whom the tutor is effective with and which other expertise 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 challenging and are there ways to learn it the easy way?
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 several hours a week you will be able to understand most sentences, be understood when you talk, socialize in about a year. Finding native speakers is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a quick 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 get better at speaking 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 dedication. The amount of time can differ a lot depending on your existing level of Chinese or proficiency in other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is recommended to use the language as often as possible: watch television, try typing using your new language skills, try to communicate with native speakers to speak with, try as many as possible ways to think and speak in Chinese out loud. If it's more difficult than you had imagined you can also take conversational Chinese classes online.
🤳 Can I pick my own Chinese coach?
In language centers, there's a likelyhood you could choose your own tutor (from the ones who already work there). Online, always! The largest selection of approved Chinese tutors with video profiles and customer reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 What's the lesson schedule like?
Colleges as a rule schedule classes two times weekly over a semester (15-week period). Language schools give shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, allows the flexibility to schedule lessons around your commitments, on weekdays and/or weekends.