Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I improve my Chinese in Saratoga Springs, NY and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using special programs, you have several main choices for learning Chinese interactively in Saratoga Springs, NY. 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 less pricey.) Your 2nd option can be local commercial language academies that cost less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, government-supported learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Last, you can opt for a private Chinese tutor in Saratoga Springs, NY. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Saratoga Springs, NY 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 as 1/10th of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the price of about 50 instruction hours each semester. Language schools and private Chinese tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the better priced Chinese tutors can be found online, with costs on Preply averaging 13 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor country of residence, ratings and student demand. Average student satisfaction for Chinese lessons on Preply is 4.96 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 prove your profeciency level. Predetermined curriculum classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework level and exams, so research each program in advance. With personal Chinese tutors you can read real feedback 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 many teaching online.
🔥 Why is Chinese not easy and are there ways to learn it the easy 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 a few hours a week you will be able to understand common words, be understood when you talk, shop and place orders in about a year. Finding native speakers is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and easy way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Chinese. After acquiring basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Chinese tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced learners.
🤷 How long does it take to achieve a good level of 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 study. The required duration of time can differ significantly depending on your current level of Chinese or familiarity with other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is recommended to use the language as often as possible: watch TV, write using your new language skills, look for 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 teacher?
In learning centers, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from select few). Online, absolutely! The largest selection of tested Chinese tutors with video profiles and real student reviews is available on online language learning platforms like Preply.
🗓 What's the best time to schedule classes?
Colleges typically schedule 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.