language lessons through skype - does it work?

[mei]

So, for the past five years I've been uhming and ahing about learning (mandarin) Chinese. I've never started - if only.

I think I should start learning after all. However, I don't want a regular beginners class which meets once a week and starts with only conversation and nothing about the written side of learning mandarin. That's where I want to start as I already know the basics (well, probably a bit more) of the characters. I just don't know how to pronounce them.

Private classes would be easiest, but not sure how. Until Twitter sent along a tweet by someone teaching Chinese through Skype. This sounds like it could actually be what I need. Personal, tailor-made (she doesn't use a set course, but discusses what your best way of learning is), and working through skype saves travel time etc and would probably mean I can fit it in my week more easily.

But, taking language classes through Skype - does it work? HAs anyone done this before?

[Deleted]

Not me but my sister in law does it with a couple of languages. Works really well because it's taylor made, flexible as in you don't have to hurry somewhere inconvenient and you can do it with natives (which might be hard to find for some langauges).

She's an addict to this method now so if I can pass on any questions let me know.

[mei]

yeah, exactly - you mention all the things that make it sound like the thing for me too. i may just request a trial lesson which they offer....

[tzarine]

definitely do a trial
there are plenty of mandarin speakers who are lousy teachers.
have fun
i studied mandarin at uni

[lillielangtry]

I have a friend who teaches English online - I think not through Skype, but it's a similar idea. It seems to work - she's not a freelancer, she works for a company which has large corporate clients.

[mei]

well, will let you know how it goes. lillie reminded me to sign up for a trial so I've just done that...

[sprite]

i've taught through the phone and it was good--video skype can only be better.
definitely go with a trial session to make sure this isn't someone trying to work on their english.