Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I skill up on Thai in Saint Paul, MN and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using mobile applications, you have 4 main opportunities for learning Thai interactively in Saint Paul, MN. 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 other option can be local private 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. Last, you can find a private Thai tutor in Saint Paul, MN. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Saint Paul, MN and online Thai tutors.
🎟 Is it expensive to learn Thai and what are the ballpark lesson costs for Thai tutors?
For university and college courses you can estimate Thai 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 class hours each semester. Language centers and independent Thai tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the most budget-friendly Thai tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 18 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor hometown, availability and languages the tutor can teach in. Customer review average for Thai lessons on Preply is 4.97 out of 5 stars.
📚 What are the requirements for Thai language skill level to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared demonstrate proof of your current level. Planned classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework volume and tests, so research each program in advance. With personal Thai tutors you can read real feedback for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like classes for adults, etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from many teaching online.
🔥 Why is Thai so difficult and are there ways to learn it the easy way?
Formal 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 5 hours a week you will be able to understand most phrases, have simple conversations, do most everyday tasks in about a year. Offline interaction is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a rapid 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 level practitioners.
🤷 How long does it take to master Thai?
Some people brag about their natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Thai will necessitate at least 600 hours of study. The actual range of time can differ significantly depending on your already acquired level of Thai 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 videos, write using your new language skills, look for native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in Thai out loud. If it's more difficult than you had imagined you can also take conversational Thai classes online.
🤳 What are my options when choosing the Thai tutor?
In colleges and universities, there's a likelyhood you could choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, certainly! The largest selection of pre-screened Thai tutors with video profiles and customer reviews is available on online language learning platforms 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 usually 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.