Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How can I master Chinese in Solihull and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using special programs, you have several main opportunities for learning Chinese interactively in Solihull. 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 cheaper.) Your 2nd option can be local for-profit 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. Fourth, you can choose a private Chinese tutor in Solihull. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Solihull and online Chinese tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn Chinese and what do Chinese tutors charge?
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 cost of about 50 class hours each semester. Language centers and independent Chinese tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the most budget-friendly Chinese tutors can be found online, with prices on Preply averaging 13 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor geography, availability and languages the tutor can teach in. Real student rating average for Chinese lessons on Preply is 4.94 out of 5 stars.
📚 What level of Chinese do I need to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared demonstrate proof of your current level. All classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework commitment and exams, so research each program in advance. With personal Chinese tutors you can find reviews for whom the tutor is effective with and which other expertise they make available (like classes for adults, etc.) For more flexibility, choose a tutor from a wide selection of those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Chinese not easy and are there ways to learn it in a better way?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Chinese. As proven by others before, 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 common words, have simple conversations, shop and place orders in about a year. Relocating is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a rapid and fun way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Chinese. After gaining 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 have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Chinese will take at least 600 hours of practice. The required duration of time can differ by a lot depending on your already acquired level of Chinese 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 TV, write using your new language skills, try to communicate with native speakers to speak with, try other ways to think and speak in Chinese out loud. If this is a greater challenge than you had anticipated you can also take conversational Chinese classes online.
🤳 Can I choose my own Chinese instructor?
In language centers, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, of course! The largest selection of pre-screened Chinese tutors with detailed profiles and true reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 What's the best time to schedule classes?
Colleges usually offer classes twice a week over a semester (75-day period). Language schools usually make available shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, you can choose your own lesson frequency and time, on weekdays and/or weekends.