Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I skill up on Chinese in Miami, FL and is possible to go light in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with recorded courses, you have a few principal choices for learning Chinese interactively in Miami, 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 other option can be local for-profit language academies that are better priced and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, non-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Finally, you can look for a private Chinese tutor in Miami, FL. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Miami, FL and online Chinese tutors.
🎟 Is it expensive to learn Chinese and what do Chinese tutors charge?
For university and college courses you can estimate Chinese 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 about 50 course hours each semester. Language schools and independent Chinese tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Chinese tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 14 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor country of residence, ratings and student demand. Real student rating average 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. Planned classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework volume and exams, so research those in advance. With personal Chinese tutors you can find out in advance for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like intermediate level practice, advanced students etc.) For more flexibility, choose a tutor from those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Chinese so difficult 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 many expressions, have simple conversations, do most everyday tasks in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a quick and enjoyable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Chinese. After acquiring 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 master 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 demand at least 600 hours of active use. The actual range of time can differ a lot depending on your already acquired level of Chinese or proficiency in 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 more ways to think and speak in Chinese out loud. If it's more difficult than you had imagined you can also take conversational Chinese classes online.
🤳 Can I pick my own Chinese coach?
In colleges and universities, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from the ones who already work there). Online, always! The largest selection of tested Chinese tutors with detailed profiles and customer reviews is available on online language learning platforms like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges typically schedule classes two times weekly over a semester (75-day period). Language schools typically give shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, allows the flexibility to schedule lessons around your commitments, on weekdays and/or weekends.