Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I improve my Dutch in Santa Fe, NM and what are my options in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with special programs, you have several key opportunities for learning Dutch interactively in Santa Fe, NM. 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 cheaper.) Your 2nd resource can be local specialized 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 look for a private Dutch tutor in Santa Fe, NM. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Santa Fe, NM and online Dutch tutors.
🎟 How expensive is it 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 one-tenth of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the rate for fifty or so instruction hours each semester. Language schools and private Dutch tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with private classes starting from $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Dutch tutors can be found online, with rates on Preply averaging 37 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor country of residence, positive reviews and popularity. Customer review average for Dutch lessons on Preply is 4.95 out of 5 stars.
📚 What level of Dutch 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 exams, so research each program in advance. With personal Dutch tutors you can find out in advance 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 those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Dutch so difficult and are there ways to learn it more effectively?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Dutch. As proven by others before, you can gain basic Dutch fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback a few hours a week you will be able to understand common phrases, have simple conversations, get proficient in daily routines in about a year. Relocating is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a rapid and affordable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Dutch. After attaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Dutch tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced speakers.
🤷 How long does it take to achieve a good level of Dutch?
Some people brag about their 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 active use. The required duration of time can differ significantly depending on your current level of Dutch or knowledge of 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 TV, try typing using your new language skills, look for native speakers to speak with, try other ways to think and speak in Dutch out loud. If it's more difficult than you had imagined you can also take conversational Dutch classes online.
🤳 Can I pick my own Dutch teacher?
In language centers, there's a likelyhood you could choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, always! The largest selection of pre-screened Dutch tutors with detailed profiles and true reviews is available on online language learning platforms like Preply.
🗓 Will I be able to fit lessons in my busy schedule?
Colleges typically structure classes twice a week over a semester (75-day period). Language schools usually make available 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.