Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I improve my Dutch in North Charleston, SC and what are the possibilities in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with special programs, you have 4 key options for learning Dutch interactively in North Charleston, SC. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, check centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are less pricey.) Your other option can be local commercial language academies that are cheaper 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 opt for a private Dutch tutor in North Charleston, SC. If flexibility is key, you can compare local North Charleston, SC and online Dutch tutors.
🎟 Is it expensive to learn Dutch and what are the ballpark lesson costs for Dutch tutors?
For university and college courses you can estimate Dutch 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 centers and private Dutch tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with private classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Dutch tutors can be found online, with costs on Preply averaging 36 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, positive reviews and specialization. Real student rating average for Dutch lessons on Preply is 4.93 out of 5 stars.
📚 What level of Dutch do I need to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared pass a few pre-requisites. 'Canned' classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework volume and tests, so research those in advance. With personal Dutch tutors you can find out in advance for whom the tutor is effective with and which other add-ons they make available (like intermediate level practice, advanced students etc.) For maximum flexibility, choose a tutor from a wide selection of those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Dutch not easy and are there ways to learn it the easy way?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Dutch. As proven by others before, you can gain basic Dutch fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback a few hours a week you will be able to understand everyday expressions, have simple conversations, get proficient in daily routines in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a quick and fun way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Dutch. After acquiring basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Dutch tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced learners.
🤷 How long does it take to master Dutch?
Some people just have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Dutch will require at least 600 hours of active use. The amount of time can differ quite a bit depending on your available level of Dutch 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 videos, try typing using your new language skills, look for native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in Dutch out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational Dutch classes online.
🤳 Can I choose my own Dutch teacher?
In language centers, there's a likelyhood you could choose your own tutor (from select few). Online, certainly! The largest selection of tested Dutch tutors with extensive profiles and true reviews is available on online language learning marketplaces like Preply.
🗓 What's the best time to schedule classes?
Colleges run classes two times weekly over a semester (75-day period). Language schools usually make available shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, you can take as few as one lesson a year, as many as several a day - and as many (or as few) as you want during any time of day, on weekdays and/or weekends.