Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I improve my Chinese in Birmingham and what are the possibilities in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with apps, you have four main options for learning Chinese interactively in Birmingham. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, check centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are less pricey.) Your 2nd spource can be local specialized language academies that are cheaper and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, non-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. 4th and last, you can choose a private Chinese tutor in Birmingham. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Birmingham 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 10 (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for about 50 course hours each semester. Language schools and independent Chinese tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with private classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the better priced Chinese tutors can be found online, with prices on Preply averaging 14 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor geography, ratings and popularity. Average reviews 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 demonstrate proof of your current level. Predetermined curriculum 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 reviews for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like intermediate level practice, advanced students etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from many teaching online.
🔥 Why is Chinese so hard and are there ways to learn it faster?
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, be understood when you talk, 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 enjoyable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Chinese. After acquiring 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 have a 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 length of time can differ significantly depending on your existing level of Chinese or proficiency in 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 other ways to think and speak in Chinese out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational Chinese classes online.
🤳 Can I pick my own Chinese coach?
In colleges and universities, there's a chance you can choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, always! The largest selection of approved Chinese tutors with detailed profiles and comprehensive reviews is available on online language learning marketplaces like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges as a rule offer classes two times weekly over a semester (75-day period). Language schools typically give shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, you can take as few as one lesson a year, as many as several a day - and as many (or as few) as you want during any time of day, on weekdays and/or weekends.