Three Ways to Learn Chinese in China

If you’re headed for China and you’re not studying the language at university, the chances are that you’ll still be keen to brush up on some basic Mandarin Chinese: speaking a few words can be invaluable in terms of helping you to settle in and get around, and many people find that once they’ve started to learn Chinese in China, they’re very keen to continue to a greater level of proficiency. There’s something addictive about getting to grips with such a beautiful and different language.

So what’s the best way to learn, and how should you go about finding a teacher?

Language Partners

Some people choose to learn Chinese in China by looking for a language partner – a bilingual speaker who will teach Chinese in return for the same amount of conversation in English. If you’re already proficient in Chinese this can be a great way to practice, as well as an excellent method of meeting new friends, but for beginners or those looking to learn Chinese quickly/intensively, language partners are unlikely to cut the mustard.

Freelance Private Teachers

If Beijing, Shanghai or any other major Chinese city, you’ll find a plethora of English speaking students who are offering their services as a private teacher. They can be great for flexibility and low prices, and some of them will be studying for a teaching qualification, but many are not actually teachers. If you’re on a tight budget or you’re looking for the absolute basics a freelance teacher may be the option for you, but the best way to learn Chinese in China is to seek out a more professional option.

Chinese Language Schools

In most cases, the best way to make rapid progress and, more importantly, enjoy learning Chinese, is to seek out a reputable, professional Chinese Language School. If you choose to learn Chinese in Beijing or Shanghai you’ll find dozens of schools, some of which can offer high-quality teaching, experienced staff and a great learning environment that rivals any local university.
In fact, some private Chinese Language schools, such as the Beijing-based That’s Mandarin, even offer semester-style intensive courses that their students prefer to university programs, due to the additional flexibility and interactivity.

Another great benefit of going to a language school is that, if you don’t like your teacher or you feel their teaching style is not right for you, you can request to change without going through the hassle of starting your search from scratch. Many schools offer the flexibility to fit your classes around a busy working, travelling or sightseeing schedule, so whatever your goals while you’re in the Middle Kingdom, learning Chinese can be one of them.

Learn Chinese in Beijing and communicate effectively with one-fourth of the worlds population. Headover to That's Mandarin and see the many resources that they offer for language students like you.