Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I improve my Thai in Canberra and is possible to go light in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with apps, you have several main possibilities for learning Thai interactively in Canberra. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, read about centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are better priced.) Your 2nd resource can be local for-profit language academies that charge less 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 Thai tutor in Canberra. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Canberra and online Thai tutors.
🎟 Is it cheap to learn Thai and how much should Thai tutors ask?
For university and college courses you can estimate Thai course cost as 1/10th 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 instruction hours each semester. Language academies and independent Thai tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with private classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the less pricey Thai tutors can be found online, with prices on Preply averaging 18 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor geography, experience and student demand. Average reviews for Thai lessons on Preply is 4.97 out of 5 stars.
📚 What level of Thai do I need to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared demonstrate proof of your current level. Planned classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework commitment and graded tasks, so research the details in advance. With personal Thai tutors you can read real feedback for whom the tutor is effective with and which other add-ons they make available (like instruction for beginners, etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from those who are teaching online.
🔥 Why is Thai so challenging and are there ways to learn it faster?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Thai. Realistically, you can gain basic Thai fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback 5 hours a week you will be able to understand most words, have simple conversations, 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 learners.
🤷 How long does it take to get better at speaking Thai?
Some people brag about their 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 practice. The length of time can differ by a lot depending on your existing level of Thai or knowledge of 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 TV, start a journal or write posts and comments using your new language skills, look for native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in Thai out loud. If you're struggling when starting a discusssion you can also take conversational Thai classes online.
🤳 What are my options when choosing the Thai instructor?
In learning centers, there's a likelyhood you could choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, always! The largest selection of verified Thai tutors with detailed profiles and customer reviews is available on online language learning platforms like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges usually structure classes two times weekly over a semester (75-day period). Language schools typically have 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.