Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn Thai in Canterbury and is possible to go light in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with apps, you have 4 key choices for learning Thai interactively in Canterbury. 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 better priced.) Your other resource can be local commercial language academies that are cheaper 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 look for a private Thai tutor in Canterbury. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Canterbury and online Thai tutors.
🎟 Is it expensive to learn Thai and what do Thai tutors charge?
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 cost of 45-48 lesson hours each semester. Language schools and independent Thai tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the better priced Thai tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 18 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, availability and specialization. Average reviews for Thai lessons on Preply is 4.97 out of 5 stars.
📚 How much Thai do I need to know to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared prove your profeciency level. Planned classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework load and tests, 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 teaching children or teens, etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from a wide selection of those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Thai so difficult and are there ways to learn it the easy way?
One-size-fits-all 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 5 hours a week you will be able to understand common words, express yourself, do most everyday tasks in about a year. Finding native speakers is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and enjoyable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Thai. After gaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Thai tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced level practitioners.
🤷 How long does it take to learn 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 amount of time can differ significantly depending on your already acquired level of Thai or knowledge of 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 additional ways to think and speak in Thai out loud. If it's more difficult than you had imagined you can also take conversational Thai classes online.
🤳 Can I choose my own Thai coach?
In language learning academies, there's a likelyhood you could choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, absolutely! The largest selection of pre-screened Thai tutors with extensive profiles and customer reviews is available on online language learning marketplaces like Preply.
🗓 What's the lesson schedule like?
Colleges run classes twice a week over a semester (75-day period). Language schools have 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.