Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I improve my Chinese in Vancouver and is possible to go light in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with mobile applications, you have 4 key options for learning Chinese interactively in Vancouver. 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 commercial language academies that charge less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, international learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. 4th and last, you can find a private Chinese tutor in Vancouver. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Vancouver and online Chinese tutors.
🎟 Is it cheap to learn Chinese and what does a lesson with a tutor of Chinese cost?
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 price of about 50 lesson hours each semester. Language academies and independent Chinese tutors charge $30-55 an hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the most budget-friendly Chinese tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 14 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor country of residence, availability and student demand. Average student satisfaction 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 demonstrate proof of your current level. 'Canned' classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework commitment and tests, so research those in advance. With personal Chinese tutors you can read real feedback for whom the tutor is effective with and which other add-ons they make available (like classes for students of A, B, or C leves, etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from many teaching online.
🔥 Why is Chinese not easy and are there ways to learn it faster?
Formal 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 5 hours a week you will be able to understand many phrases, speak on some level, do most everyday tasks in about a year. Relocating is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready 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 level practitioners.
🤷 How long does it take to get better at speaking Chinese?
Some people seem to 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 active use. The length of time can differ significantly depending on your available level of Chinese or proficiency in other languages in the same group. As soon as you've learned the basics it is recommended to use the language as often as possible: watch videos, write by hand and online using your new language skills, seek 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.
🤳 What are my options when choosing the Chinese instructor?
In learning centers, there's a chance you can choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, always! The largest selection of tested Chinese tutors with video profiles and comprehensive reviews is available on online language learning platforms like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges usually structure classes two times weekly 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.