Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How can I master Dutch in Oakland, CA and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using recorded courses, you have 4 main choices for learning Dutch interactively in Oakland, CA. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, research centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are better priced.) Your other possibility can be local commercial language academies that charge less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, government-supported learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Last, you can choose a private Dutch tutor in Oakland, CA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Oakland, CA and online Dutch tutors.
🎟 Is it expensive to learn Dutch and how much should Dutch tutors ask?
For university and college courses you can estimate Dutch course cost as one-tenth of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the cost of fifty or so instruction hours each semester. Language centers and individual Dutch tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with private classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the better priced Dutch tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 36 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, ratings and student demand. Customer review average for Dutch lessons on Preply is 4.92 out of 5 stars.
📚 How much Dutch do I need to know 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 testing, so research the details in advance. With personal Dutch tutors you can find reviews for whom the tutor is effective with and which other extras they make available (like instruction for beginners, etc.) For maximum flexibility, choose a tutor from those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Dutch so challenging and are there ways to learn it faster?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Dutch. According to experts, you can gain basic Dutch fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback five hours a week you will be able to understand many words, speak on some level, 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 affordable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Dutch. After gaining 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 achieve a good level of Dutch?
Some people have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Dutch will demand at least 600 hours of study. The length of time can differ a lot depending on your already acquired 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 news and movies, write by hand and online using your new language skills, try to communicate with 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 pick my own Dutch instructor?
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 verified Dutch tutors with extensive profiles and true reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges usually schedule classes twice a week 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.