Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How can I master Thai in North Charleston, SC and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using special programs, you have four key possibilities for learning Thai interactively in North Charleston, SC. 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 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. Last, you can find a private Thai tutor in North Charleston, SC. If flexibility is key, you can compare local North Charleston, SC and online Thai tutors.
🎟 Is it cheap to learn Thai and what do Thai tutors charge?
For university and college courses you can estimate Thai course cost by dividing annual tuition by ten (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the overall charge for about 50 course hours each semester. Language centers and individual Thai tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the better priced Thai tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 18 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor geography, availability and languages the tutor can teach in. Average reviews for Thai lessons on Preply is 4.97 out of 5 stars.
📚 What level of Thai do I need 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 testing, so research each program in advance. With personal Thai tutors you can read reviews and get a good idea for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like instruction for beginners, etc.) For maximum flexibility, choose a tutor from those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Thai not easy and are there ways to learn it more effectively?
One-size-fits-all language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Thai. According to experts, 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 everyday phrases, 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 affordable 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 speakers.
🤷 How long does it take to achieve a good level of 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 length of time can differ a lot depending on your current level of Thai or familiarity with other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is a good idea to use the language as often as possible: watch news and movies, try typing using your new language skills, look for native speakers to speak with, try as many as possible ways to think and speak in Thai out loud. If you're struggling when starting a discusssion you can also take conversational Thai classes online.
🤳 How many possibilities do I choose among when I select the right Thai tutor?
In colleges and universities, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from the ones who already work there). Online, certainly! The largest selection of pre-screened Thai tutors with extensive profiles and comprehensive reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 What's the best time to schedule classes?
Colleges typically structure 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, 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.