One of the first places you should consider looking when trying to learn a new language is your local college or community center. Classes with an experienced teacher are a proven, efficient method of learning a new language, and Chinese is a commonly taught language in most colleges. Your local community center might also offer classes that are inexpensive or free. If you are serious about learning Chinese quickly, you might want to consider investing in a private tutor who can help you progress as fast as possible.
Another excellent resource for learning Chinese is your local library. Books such as "Pimsleur's Mandarin Chinese" and "Learning Chinese the Easy Way" are specifically designed for beginners interested in learning Chinese, and you can find more advanced books as you progress in the language. For efficacy, you should plan to devote at least 30 minutes per day of independent study to master a new language. Many books are also accompanied by language CDs that can supplement your learning process and get you speaking correctly and quickly.
The Internet is a vast resource for people interested in learning Chinese. Websites such as Learning Chinese Online and Livemocha are designed for beginners to start with the basics and progress along in a series of lessons, aided by native speakers and experienced teachers. Other websites, such as Omniglot and Chinese Tools, can provide vocabulary word lists, tips for pronunciation, lessons on conjugation and other helpful hints to make learning Chinese easier.
There are numerous programs that can be purchased that are specifically designed to help non-native speakers master a new language. Rosetta Stone is one of the most popular, and they offer programs in Mandarin Chinese as well as Basic Chinese. Transparent Language is another computer program that offers a Chinese course. As with books and CDs, you should plan to devote a minimum of 30 minutes per day of study in order to progress with learning Chinese.
