Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn Chinese in Taupo and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using special programs, you have 4 principal possibilities for learning Chinese interactively in Taupo. 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 better priced.) Your 2nd possibility can be local for-profit language academies that charge less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, non-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Fourth, you can find a private Chinese tutor in Taupo. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Taupo 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 one-tenth of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for 45-48 instruction hours each semester. Language schools and independent 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 rates on Preply averaging 13 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, experience and languages the tutor can teach in. Real student rating average for Chinese lessons on Preply is 4.95 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 to show a language test profeciency score or take an entrance test to determine your level. All classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework volume and tests, so research each program in advance. With personal Chinese tutors you can read reviews and get a good idea for whom the tutor is effective with and which other add-ons they make available (like teaching children or teens, etc.) For better flexibility, choose a tutor from those who are teaching online.
🔥 Why is Chinese so hard and are there ways to learn it more effectively?
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 5 hours a week you will be able to understand everyday phrases, have simple conversations, get proficient in daily routines 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 Chinese. After attaining 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 require at least 600 hours of practice. The length of time can differ by a lot depending on your existing level of Chinese or proficiency in other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is a good idea to use the language as often as possible: watch television, start a journal or write posts and comments using your new language skills, seek native speakers to speak with, try as many as possible 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.
🤳 How many possibilities do I choose among when I select the right Chinese tutor?
In colleges and universities, there's a likelyhood you could choose your own tutor (from select few). Online, absolutely! The largest selection of verified Chinese tutors with extensive profiles and true reviews is available on online language learning resources like Preply.
🗓 What's the lesson schedule like?
Colleges offer classes twice a week over a semester (15-week 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.