Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I skill up on Chinese in Chicago, IL and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using mobile applications, you have a few primary options for learning Chinese interactively in Chicago, IL. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, read about centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are a little more affordable.) Your second option can be local specialized 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 choose a private Chinese tutor in Chicago, IL. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Chicago, IL and online Chinese tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn Chinese and what do Chinese tutors charge?
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 overall charge for 1/2 of a hundred instruction hours each semester. Language centers and independent Chinese tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with private classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Chinese tutors can be found online, with costs on Preply averaging 13 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor geography, experience and student demand. Real student rating average for Chinese lessons on Preply is 4.91 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 prove your profeciency level. 'Canned' classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework load and exams, so research all such requirements in advance. With personal Chinese tutors you can find reviews for whom the tutor is effective with and which other extras they make available (like intermediate level practice, advanced students etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Chinese not easy and are there ways to learn it in a better way?
One-size-fits-all language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Chinese. According to experts, 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 expressions, be understood when you talk, get proficient in daily routines in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and affordable 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 level practitioners.
🤷 How long does it take to get better at speaking 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 necessitate at least 600 hours of study. The actual range 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 TV, write by hand and online using your new language skills, look for native speakers to speak with, try other 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.
🤳 Can I pick my own Chinese instructor?
In language centers, there's a chance you can choose your own tutor (from select few). Online, always! The largest selection of approved Chinese tutors with detailed profiles and customer reviews is available on online language learning resources like Preply.
🗓 What time of day and on which days are classes available?
Colleges usually structure classes twice a week over a semester (15-week period). Language schools 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.