Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn Chinese in Providence, RI and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using apps, you have a few main options for learning Chinese interactively in Providence, RI. 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 cheaper.) Your second possibility can be local specialized 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. Fourth, you can find a private Chinese tutor in Providence, RI. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Providence, RI and online Chinese tutors.
🎟 Is it expensive to learn Chinese and what are the ballpark lesson costs for Chinese tutors?
For university and college courses you can estimate Chinese 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 instruction hours each semester. Language academies and independent Chinese tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Chinese tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 13 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor hometown, ratings and specialization. Average student satisfaction for Chinese lessons on Preply is 4.94 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 demonstrate proof of your current level. Predetermined curriculum classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework commitment and testing, so research the details in advance. With personal Chinese tutors you can read real feedback for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations 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 Chinese so difficult and are there ways to learn it the easy way?
Standardized language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Chinese. Realistically, you can gain basic Chinese fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback five hours a week you will be able to understand many expressions, be understood when you talk, shop and place orders in about a year. Finding native speakers is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a fast and easy way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Chinese. After mastering basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Chinese tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced students.
🤷 How long does it take to learn Chinese?
Some people brag about their natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Chinese will necessitate at least 600 hours of dedication. The required duration of time can differ significantly depending on your existing level of Chinese or familiarity with other languages in the same group. As soon as you've learned the basics 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, try to communicate with native speakers to speak with, try as many as possible ways to think and speak in Chinese out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational Chinese classes online.
🤳 Can I choose my own Chinese coach?
In colleges and universities, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, absolutely! The largest selection of pre-screened Chinese tutors with extensive profiles and comprehensive reviews is available on online language learning marketplaces like Preply.
🗓 What time of day and on which days are classes available?
Colleges typically schedule classes twice a week over a semester (75-day period). Language schools 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.