Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How to learn Thai in Pasadena, CA and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with special programs, you have 4 main opportunities for learning Thai interactively in Pasadena, CA. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, research centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are a little more affordable.) Your 2nd option can be local specialized language academies that are cheaper and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, not-for-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. Fourth, you can opt for a private Thai tutor in Pasadena, CA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Pasadena, CA and online Thai tutors.
🎟 Is it expensive to learn Thai and how much should Thai tutors ask?
For university and college courses you can estimate Thai course cost as one-tenth of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the overall charge for about 50 class hours each semester. Language centers and private Thai tutors charge $30-55 for hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the less pricey Thai tutors can be found online, with prices on LearnZone averaging 21 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor hometown, availability and popularity. Real student rating average for Thai lessons on LearnZone is 4.97 out of 5 stars.
📚 What level of Thai 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 commitment and testing, so research the details in advance. With personal Thai tutors you can read real feedback for whom the tutor is effective with and which other expertise they make available (like instruction for beginners, etc.) For maximum flexibility, choose a tutor from many teaching online.
🔥 Why is Thai so challenging and are there ways to learn it faster?
One-size-fits-all language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Thai. Realistically, you can gain basic Thai fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback 5 hours a week you will be able to understand many words, be understood when you talk, socialize in about a year. Finding native speakers is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a ready and fun way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Thai. After acquiring basic skills, online marketplaces like LearnZone have Thai tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced speakers.
🤷 How long does it take to master Thai?
Some people just have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Thai will necessitate at least 600 hours of active use. The actual range of time can differ quite a bit depending on your available level of Thai or proficiency in other languages in the same group. As soon as you've learned the basics it is a good idea to use the language as often as possible: watch videos, try typing using your new language skills, seek native speakers to speak with, try other ways to think and speak in Thai out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational Thai classes online.
🤳 Can I choose my own Thai instructor?
In language centers, there's a chance you can choose your own tutor (from a limited pool). Online, always! The largest selection of approved Thai tutors with video profiles and comprehensive reviews is available on online language learning resources like LearnZone.
🗓 What's the lesson schedule like?
Colleges usually offer classes two times weekly over a semester (15-week period). Language schools as a rule make available shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, you can take as few as one lesson a year, as many as several a day - and as many (or as few) as you want during any time of day, on weekdays and/or weekends.