Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I improve my Thai in Fort Lauderdale, FL and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using special programs, you have 4 principal choices for learning Thai interactively in Fort Lauderdale, FL. 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 better priced.) Your second resource can be local private 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. 4th and last, you can find a private Thai tutor in Fort Lauderdale, FL. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Fort Lauderdale, FL and online Thai tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn Thai and what do Thai tutors charge?
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 45-48 course hours each semester. Language academies and private Thai tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Thai tutors can be found online, with rates on Preply averaging 18 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor hometown, ratings and languages the tutor can teach in. 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. All classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework level and graded tasks, so research the details in advance. With personal Thai tutors you can find reviews for whom the tutor is effective with and which other expertise they make available (like intermediate level practice, advanced students etc.) For more flexibility, choose a tutor from those who are teaching online.
🔥 Why is Thai not easy and are there ways to learn it faster?
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 5 hours a week you will be able to understand everyday phrases, express yourself, socialize in about a year. Offline interaction is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a fast 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 just have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Thai will take at least 600 hours of study. The length of time can differ a lot depending on your current level of Thai or knowledge of other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading 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, look for native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in Thai out loud. If this is a greater challenge than you had anticipated you can also take conversational Thai classes online.
🤳 What are my options when choosing the Thai coach?
In language learning academies, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from the ones who already work there). Online, of course! The largest selection of approved Thai tutors with video profiles and comprehensive reviews is available on online language learning marketplaces like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges schedule classes two times weekly over a semester (75-day period). Language schools as a rule 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.