Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn Thai in Washington, DC and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using mobile applications, you have four key options for learning Thai interactively in Washington, DC. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, check centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are a little more affordable.) Your second spource can be local private language academies that are better priced 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 opt for a private Thai tutor in Washington, DC. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Washington, DC and online Thai tutors.
🎟 How expensive is it to learn Thai and how much should Thai tutors ask?
For university and college courses you can estimate Thai course cost as 1/10th of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for fifty or so lesson hours each semester. Language schools and individual Thai tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with private classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Thai tutors can be found online, with prices on Preply averaging 18 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, availability and languages the tutor can teach in. Average reviews 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 pass a few pre-requisites. Predetermined curriculum classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework level and graded tasks, so research the details in advance. With personal Thai tutors you can find out in advance for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like classes for students of A, B, or C leves, etc.) For maximum flexibility, choose a tutor from those who are teaching online.
🔥 Why is Thai so difficult and are there ways to learn it more effectively?
Standardized 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 several hours a week you will be able to understand common phrases, be understood when you talk, do most everyday tasks in about a year. Relocating is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a quick and enjoyable 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 learners.
🤷 How long does it take to learn Thai?
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 Thai will require at least 600 hours of study. The actual range of time can differ significantly depending on your available level of Thai or familiarity with 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 TV, start a journal or write posts and comments using your new language skills, find native speakers to speak with, try other 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.
🤳 How many possibilities do I choose among when I select the right Thai instructor?
In colleges and universities, you can possibly choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, of course! The largest selection of pre-screened Thai tutors with video profiles and real student reviews is available on online language learning 'supermarkets' like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges usually schedule classes twice a week over a semester (15-week period). Language schools typically have 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.