Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I skill up on Thai in Cambridge and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using special programs, you have several main opportunities for learning Thai interactively in Cambridge. 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 cheaper.) Your 2nd spource can be local specialized language academies that are cheaper and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, international learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Last, you can find a private Thai tutor in Cambridge. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Cambridge and online Thai tutors.
🎟 How expensive is it to learn Thai and how much should Thai tutors ask?
For university and college courses you can estimate Thai course cost as one-tenth of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the overall charge for 1/2 of a hundred course hours each semester. Language schools and individual Thai tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Thai tutors can be found online, with rates on Preply averaging 18 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor hometown, availability and languages the tutor can teach in. 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 demonstrate proof of your current level. Predetermined curriculum classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework load and graded tasks, so research each program in advance. With personal Thai tutors you can read reviews and get a good idea for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like intermediate level practice, advanced students etc.) For better flexibility, choose a tutor from those who are teaching online.
🔥 Why is Thai so challenging and are there ways to learn it more effectively?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Thai. In reality, 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 many expressions, express yourself, get proficient in daily routines in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and enjoyable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Thai. After attaining 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 get better at speaking Thai?
Some people just have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Thai will require at least 600 hours of dedication. The length of time can differ significantly depending on your existing level of Thai or familiarity with other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is a good idea to use the language as often as possible: watch television, write using your new language skills, look for native speakers to speak with, try other ways to think and speak in Thai out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational Thai classes online.
🤳 Can I pick my own Thai instructor?
In language learning academies, there's a likelyhood you could choose your own tutor (from the ones who already work there). Online, certainly! The largest selection of approved Thai tutors with detailed profiles and real student reviews is available on online language learning marketplaces like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges usually run classes twice a week over a semester (75-day period). Language schools usually offer 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.