Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I skill up on Chinese in Davis, CA and what are the possibilities in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using special programs, you have 4 principal opportunities for learning Chinese interactively in Davis, CA. 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 cheaper.) Your other spource can be local for-profit language academies that charge less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, not-for-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Last, you can opt for a private Chinese tutor in Davis, CA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Davis, CA 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 1/10th of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for 45-48 lesson hours each semester. Language centers and individual Chinese tutors charge $30-55 per 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, availability and popularity. Customer review average for Chinese lessons on Preply is 4.96 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. All classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework volume and exams, so research those 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 intermediate level practice, advanced students etc.) For maximum flexibility, choose a tutor from those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Chinese not easy 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. As proven by others before, you can gain basic Chinese fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback five hours a week you will be able to understand most expressions, be understood when you talk, do most everyday tasks in about a year. Offline interaction 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 level practitioners.
🤷 How long does it take to learn Chinese?
Some people just 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 study. The amount of time can differ quite a bit depending on your available 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 videos, write using your new language skills, find native speakers to speak with, try additional ways to think and speak in Chinese out loud. If it's more difficult than you had imagined you can also take conversational Chinese classes online.
🤳 Can I choose my own Chinese coach?
In colleges and universities, there's a chance you can choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, absolutely! The largest selection of pre-screened Chinese tutors with full profiles and comprehensive reviews is available on online language learning platforms like Preply.
🗓 What's the lesson schedule like?
Colleges run classes twice a week over a semester (15-week period). Language schools as a rule offer 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.