Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How can I master Thai in Christchurch and what are the possibilities in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with recorded courses, you have four primary options for learning Thai interactively in Christchurch. 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 less pricey.) Your second option can be local private language academies that charge less 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 opt for a private Thai tutor in Christchurch. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Christchurch and online Thai tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable 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 fifty or so instruction hours each semester. Language academies and individual Thai tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Thai tutors can be found online, with costs on Preply averaging 18 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, experience and specialization. Average student satisfaction 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 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 level and testing, so research each program 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 better flexibility, choose a tutor from those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Thai 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 Thai. Realistically, 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 common words, speak on some level, socialize in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and easy way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Thai. After acquiring 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 seem to 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 actual range of time can differ by a lot depending on your already acquired level of Thai or familiarity with other languages in the same group. As soon as you've learned the basics it is best 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 Thai out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational Thai classes online.
🤳 Can I pick my own Thai tutor?
In language centers, you can possibly choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, absolutely! The largest selection of verified Thai tutors with full profiles and real student reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 What's the lesson schedule like?
Colleges structure classes twice a week over a semester (15-week period). Language schools usually give 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.