Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I skill up on Chinese in Geneva, IL and what are the possibilities in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using apps, you have four key possibilities for learning Chinese interactively in Geneva, 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 better priced.) Your other option can be local private 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. Last, you can look for a private Chinese tutor in Geneva, IL. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Geneva, IL and online Chinese tutors.
🎟 How expensive is it 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 1/10th of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the price of fifty or so course hours each semester. Language academies and individual Chinese tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with private classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the less pricey Chinese tutors can be found online, with prices on Preply averaging 12 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, ratings and student demand. Real student rating average for Chinese lessons on Preply is 4.94 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 to show a language test profeciency score or take an entrance test to determine your level. 'Canned' classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework commitment and testing, 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 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 faster?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Chinese. In reality, 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 most words, speak on some level, socialize in about a year. Offline interaction 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 level practitioners.
🤷 How long does it take to get better at speaking Chinese?
Some people brag about their 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 dedication. The length of time can differ quite a bit depending on your current 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 television, start a journal or write posts and comments using your new language skills, find native speakers to speak with, try as many as possible ways to think and speak in Chinese out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational Chinese classes online.
🤳 Can I choose my own Chinese tutor?
In colleges and universities, it's possible that you can choose your own tutor (from the ones who already work there). Online, always! The largest selection of verified Chinese tutors with full profiles and customer reviews is available on online language learning resources like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges usually offer classes twice a week over a semester (15-week period). Language schools have shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, the number of lessons is really up to you, with early morning, day, evening and night classes available, on weekdays and/or weekends.