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bcup
Newbie
Joined: Feb 07, 2005
Posts: 5
Status: Offline
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 Posted:
Feb 08, 2005 - 12:15 AM |
 
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| Post subject: mandarin - where to study? |
i am considring to put some time a side to study mandarin, however having discussed this with few fellows i was indeed frightened!
where do u study? whats the class size? when will the class start? (term time)
what are the class times? where is it located? whats the average age of students? whats their professional / national background?
which text books are used? is it more grammar based or rather more conversational or abit of both?
how much is it? |
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peining
Reacher
Joined: July 24, 2004
Posts: 223
Location: Shanghai
Status: Offline
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Feb 08, 2005 - 01:01 AM |
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are you currently in shanghai?
i spent a semester at BLCU, Beijing Language and Culture University, and had a remarkable time there. the HSK (chinese equivalent to the english TOEFL) is designed by the teachers of that institution, the teachers are incredibly experienced in teaching foreigners. it was well worth every penny... and well worth the stay in beijing.
they have a selection of classes based on skill level from A-E. I took the accelerated course, only ranging from A-C level, which meets for six hours each weekday. this was the only school that offered accelerated classes, i.e. two semesters work in one, which was the big factor on why i decided to go there.
tuition for last year's semester was 2300USD (accelerated class is twice as much as the normal, but well worth it if you're serious about learning). it covers all textbooks (also published by the university), but not room and board.
average class size varies, though does not exceed 20 per class, usually less, and average age varies too (my class ranging from high school graduates to professionals in the mid 30's). demographics vary as well. my class was half japanese and a third korean... a fun mix, but if you attend the A-level classes, there are only students from western countries.
as with everything, you get what you want with the level of work you put in. the teachers are still a big part of the equation. if you can choose between shanghai and beijing, definitely go up north for the better mandarin experience, i think at least. |
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peecee
Lurker
Joined: Feb 06, 2005
Posts: 22
Status: Offline
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Feb 08, 2005 - 02:28 AM |
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http://www.shanghaiexpat.com/Article66.phtml
the above link gives some Shanghai options. All the courses seem to be around USD 1,000 per semester. I've decided to go with the Mandarin Center, 10 Song Yuan Road (see link).
A lot of the university courses have large classes, but this place has small classes and its also very modern and professional. Costs Y5,000 - 8,000 depending on course, see www.mandarin-center.com |
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