Why Learn Chinese?
With globalization, Chinese has become one of the most important languages in the world. Whether for career advancement, academic studies, or cultural interest, learning Chinese offers numerous benefits. Many companies worldwide value Chinese proficiency as a key skill. Moreover, being able to communicate in Chinese enhances travel experiences and cross-cultural interactions.
If you want to learn Chinese from home, there are many convenient options available:
✔ Online Chinese Learning Websites – Ideal for learners who want flexible study schedules.
✔ Chinese Learning Apps – Great for beginners who prefer learning through mobile devices anytime, anywhere.
✔ Online Chinese Tutors – Suitable for learners who want personalized guidance to improve their speaking skills.
Among these options, online Chinese learning websites are an excellent choice as they provide structured courses, often with quizzes to track progress. Choosing the right course based on your proficiency level is crucial. Below are some recommended websites that cater to different learning needs.
Recommended Online Chinese Learning Websites
Chinese Learning Website 1 – Taiwan Mandarin Education Resource Center
✧Features: Free learning resources from Taiwan’s top universities, suitable for beginners to advanced learners. Covers listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills with downloadable study materials.
✧Best for: Self-learners
Chinese Learning Website 2 – Chinese-Learning.cn
✧Features: Offers one-on-one online Chinese courses. Provides HSK preparation, daily conversation, and business Chinese courses.
✧Best for: HSK exam takers and business Chinese learners
Chinese Learning Website 3 – Coursera – Learning Chinese: Start From Scratch
✧Features: Designed by National Taiwan University. Comprehensive beginner-level course with a certification option (paid feature).
✧Best for: Absolute beginners
Chinese Learning Website 4 – Yoyo Chinese
✧Features: Tailored for English speakers with video lessons and quizzes. Focuses on pronunciation and speaking skills.
✧Best for: Learners aiming to improve pronunciation and speaking skills
Chinese Learning Website 5 – Loecsen – Free Chinese Learning Website
✧Features: Provides free basic Chinese courses with interactive exercises. Learn commonly used vocabulary and phrases with visual and audio learning tools.
✧Best for: Beginners and short-term learners
Comparison of Online Chinese Learning Websites
|
Website Name |
Best For |
Features |
Paid/Free |
|
Taiwan Mandarin Education Resource Center |
Self-learners |
Free learning resources from Taiwan’s top universities, suitable for beginners to advanced learners. Covers listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills with downloadable study materials. |
Free |
|
Chinese-Learning.cn |
HSK exam takers and business Chinese learners |
Offers one-on-one online Chinese courses. Provides HSK preparation, daily conversation, and business Chinese courses. |
Paid |
|
Coursera – Learning Chinese: Start From Scratch |
Absolute beginners |
Designed by National Taiwan University. Comprehensive beginner-level course with a certification option (paid feature). |
Free/Paid certificate |
|
Yoyo Chinese |
Learners aiming to improve pronunciation and speaking skills |
Tailored for English speakers. Focuses on pronunciation and speaking skills with video lessons and quizzes. |
Free/Paid |
|
Loecsen – Free Chinese Learning Website |
Beginners and short-term learners |
Provides free basic Chinese courses with interactive exercises. Learn commonly used vocabulary and phrases with visual and audio learning tools. |
Free |
Pros and Cons of Learning Chinese Online
Advantages of Online Learning:
✔Flexible schedule, ideal for busy students and office workers.
✔Wide variety of courses for different learning needs.
✔Allows revisiting lessons anytime for better learning efficiency.
Disadvantages of Online Learning:
✘Lack of real-time conversation practice.
✘Requires strong self-discipline and motivation.
✘No immediate pronunciation correction or grammar feedback.
FAQs
1. How Do I Choose the Right Online Chinese Course?
When selecting an online Chinese course, consider the following factors:
● Learning Goal – Are you learning for daily conversation, business Chinese, or HSK preparation?
● Teaching Style – Do you prefer interactive courses (like Yoyo Chinese) or structured learning (like Coursera)?
● Budget – Some courses are free, while others require payment for full access.
2. How Can I Determine My Chinese Proficiency Level?
Knowing your level helps in selecting the right course, and here are some methods:
● HSK (Chinese Proficiency Test) Guidelines:
○ HSK 1-2 (Beginner): Be able to recognize common words, and engage in basic daily conversations.
○ HSK 3-4 (Intermediate): Be able to communicate smoothly and read simple texts.
○ HSK 5-6 (Advanced): Be able to handle complex communication and understand detailed content.
● Online Free Tests: Some platforms, like Coursera, provide placement tests.
● Professional Assessment: Many language schools including Oh Young Language Center, offer free proficiency evaluations to help you determine your current Chinese level and choose the right course.
3. How Long Does It Take to Learn Chinese Online and In-Person?
The time required depends on your learning method, frequency, and background.
Online Learning Duration:
● Studying 1-2 hours per day typically takes 6 months to 1 year to reach HSK 3-4.
● Learning at a slower pace may require 1-2 years for conversational fluency.
● Progress varies based on self-discipline and practice opportunities.
In-Person Learning Duration:
● Immersive environments such as language schools, accelerate learning.
● Reach HSK 3-4 within 3-6 months via the Intensive English Program (10-15 hrs/week).
● Small-group classes ensure each student has sufficient time to practice.
Join Oh Young Language Center in Taichung and experience immersive Chinese learning!
At Oh Young Language Center, we offer:
✔ Courses for all levels, from beginner to advanced.
✔ Small class sizes to ensure every student receives ample guidance.
✔ An immersive learning environment to help you quickly improve your listening and speaking skills.
✔ Cultural experience courses that allow you to explore Chinese culture while learning the language, enhancing your learning experience.
Taichung is a very foreigner-friendly city, where you can comfortably use Chinese in daily life. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to further enhance your Chinese skills, Oh Young Language Center offers the perfect course for you.
We adopt a small-class teaching approach, allowing you to interact with classmates in Chinese and improve your language skills in an immersive environment. Our teachers provide real-time guidance to ensure you have the most effective learning experience.
Additionally, we offer cultural experience courses on weekdays, guiding you through the history and development of Taiwan. This allows you to not only learn the language but also deeply experience the richness and diversity of Chinese culture.
If you want to learn Chinese in a real-life language environment, come to Oh Young Language Center—we’ll help you improve your Chinese skills with ease!
