Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How can I master Dutch in Durham, NC and what are the possibilities in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study using recorded courses, you have four main options for learning Dutch interactively in Durham, NC. 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 a little more affordable.) Your second option can be local commercial language academies that cost less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, non-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. 4th and last, you can find a private Dutch tutor in Durham, NC. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Durham, NC and online Dutch tutors.
🎟 Is it cheap to learn Dutch and what does a lesson with a tutor of Dutch cost?
For university and college courses you can estimate Dutch course cost as 1/10th of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the cost of fifty or so course hours each semester. Language schools and independent Dutch tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with individual classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the less pricey Dutch tutors can be found online, with costs on Preply averaging 37 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor geography, ratings and student demand. Average student satisfaction for Dutch lessons on Preply is 4.95 out of 5 stars.
📚 How much Dutch 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. Predetermined curriculum classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework volume and exams, so research the details in advance. With personal Dutch tutors you can read real feedback for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like teaching children or teens, etc.) For maximum flexibility, choose a tutor from those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Dutch so hard and are there ways to learn it faster?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Dutch. According to experts, you can gain basic Dutch fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback several hours a week you will be able to understand common phrases, express yourself, socialize in about a year. Physical language immersion is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a fast and easy way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Dutch. After gaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Dutch tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced level practitioners.
🤷 How long does it take to get better at speaking Dutch?
Some people just have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Dutch will require at least 600 hours of practice. The actual range of time can differ significantly depending on your already acquired level of Dutch or familiarity with other languages in the same group. As soon as you've learned the basics it is advised to use the language as often as possible: watch news and movies, write using your new language skills, find native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in Dutch out loud. If this is not easy you can also take conversational Dutch classes online.
🤳 What are my options when choosing the Dutch instructor?
In learning centers, you can possibly choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, of course! The largest selection of verified Dutch tutors with extensive profiles and true reviews is available on online language learning resources like Preply.
🗓 What time of day and on which days are classes available?
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.