Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How can I master Chinese in Coquitlam and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using special programs, you have several principal possibilities for learning Chinese interactively in Coquitlam. 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 a little more affordable.) Your other option can be local for-profit language academies that cost less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, government-supported learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Finally, you can look for a private Chinese tutor in Coquitlam. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Coquitlam 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 by dividing annual tuition by 10 (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the cost of 45-48 instruction hours each semester. Language academies and private Chinese tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Chinese tutors can be found online, with prices on Preply averaging 13 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor country of residence, ratings and languages the tutor can teach in. Real student rating average for Chinese lessons on Preply is 4.94 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 volume and tests, 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 teaching children or teens, etc.) For maximum flexibility, choose a tutor from those who are teaching online.
🔥 Why is Chinese 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 Chinese. In reality, you can gain basic Chinese fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback a few hours a week you will be able to understand most sentences, speak on some level, shop and place orders in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a rapid and enjoyable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Chinese. After gaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Chinese tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced level practitioners.
🤷 How long does it take to learn 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 require at least 600 hours of dedication. The actual range of time can differ quite a bit depending on your available level of Chinese or familiarity with other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is best to use the language as often as possible: watch television, try typing using your new language skills, seek native speakers to speak with, try more 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 coach?
In language learning academies, you can possibly choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, always! The largest selection of approved Chinese tutors with detailed profiles and customer 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 two times weekly over a semester (75-day period). Language schools as a rule 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.