Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn Chinese in South Bend, IN and is possible to go light in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with recorded courses, you have several key options for learning Chinese interactively in South Bend, IN. 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 less pricey.) Your other spource can be local for-profit language academies that are cheaper and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, international learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Last, you can choose a private Chinese tutor in South Bend, IN. If flexibility is key, you can compare local South Bend, IN and online Chinese tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn Chinese and what are the ballpark lesson costs for Chinese tutors?
For university and college courses you can estimate Chinese 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 45-48 instruction hours each semester. Language centers and individual Chinese tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with private 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, positive reviews and languages the tutor can teach in. Customer review average for Chinese lessons on Preply is 4.95 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 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 level and testing, so research those 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 intermediate level practice, advanced students etc.) For better flexibility, choose a tutor from those who are 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. In reality, you can gain basic Chinese fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback a few hours a week you will be able to understand everyday words, speak on some level, shop and place orders in about a year. Finding native speakers is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a quick and enjoyable 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 speakers.
🤷 How long does it take to achieve a good level of 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 take at least 600 hours of active use. The amount of time can differ by a lot 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 best to use the language as often as possible: watch news and movies, write using your new language skills, find native speakers to speak with, try additional ways to think and speak in Chinese out loud. If you're struggling when starting a discusssion you can also take conversational Chinese classes online.
🤳 How many possibilities do I choose among when I select the right Chinese instructor?
In language centers, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from the ones who already work there). Online, of course! The largest selection of pre-screened Chinese tutors with full profiles and true reviews is available on online language learning resources like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges offer classes two times weekly over a semester (15-week 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.