Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I improve my Chinese in Champaign, IL and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using apps, you have a few key possibilities for learning Chinese interactively in Champaign, IL. 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 cheaper.) Your 2nd resource 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. Finally, you can look for a private Chinese tutor in Champaign, IL. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Champaign, IL and online Chinese tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn Chinese and what does a lesson with a tutor of Chinese cost?
For university and college courses you can estimate Chinese course cost as 1/10th of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the cost of about 50 lesson hours each semester. Language centers and private Chinese tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the most budget-friendly Chinese tutors can be found online, with rates on Preply averaging 14 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor geography, experience and languages the tutor can teach in. Average reviews 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 to show a language test profeciency score or take an entrance test to determine your level. 'Canned' classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework commitment and testing, 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 adults, etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Chinese so difficult and are there ways to learn it more effectively?
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 five hours a week you will be able to understand most expressions, speak on some level, 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 mastering basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Chinese tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced students.
🤷 How long does it take to achieve a good level of Chinese?
Some people just have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Chinese will take at least 600 hours of practice. The length of time can differ significantly depending on your available level of Chinese or familiarity with other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is advised to use the language as often as possible: watch television, start a journal or write posts and comments using your new language skills, seek native speakers to speak with, try as many as possible ways to think and speak in Chinese out loud. If this is a greater challenge than you had anticipated you can also take conversational Chinese classes online.
🤳 What are my options when choosing the Chinese teacher?
In colleges and universities, you can possibly choose your own tutor (from the ones who already work there). Online, always! The largest selection of approved Chinese tutors with video profiles and real student reviews is available on online language learning resources like Preply.
🗓 What's the best time to schedule classes?
Colleges typically offer classes twice a week over a semester (75-day period). Language schools make available 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.