How to Study Chinese while in School

For many students, including myself, summer is coming to an end. Indeed, parents reading this know this well, and their students might already be back to school. Schedules are becoming busier, and it may seem like a great idea to entirely focus on school. However, I believe it is possible to study Chinese and school classes at the same time. In this blog, I will detail just how I plan to balance a full-time college schedule while studying Chinese.

1. Scheduling Is Key

When studying, it is important to be mindful of your study times. We each know when and how we study; therefore, it is important to schedule that time effectively. KellynKai’s flashcard app synchronizes seamlessly with lessons; thus, studying requires no preparation to start. Scheduling allows you to keep a balance between school and Chinese learning.

2. Study Efficiently

Studying efficiently will save time and result in less time studying. Additionally, you will pick up Chinese faster if using effective study tactics. For example, using flashcards, reading, and even watching TV. These tactics could also be used to study for school classes.

3. Study in the Real World

Another effective study method that will not intrude on other study time is to use Chinese lessons in the real world. Since it is a language, speaking is a key aspect of Chinese; practicing with advanced or other intermediate speakers. They can correct tones and pronunciation when speaking and will help you study passively.

4. Supplement Reading

Reading is a very effective way to build fluency and learn to recognize characters. It is important to schedule this time as well, since reading can be slow if you are not an intermediate or advanced student.

5. Supplement Entertainment

Instead of watching your usual entertainment shows, you can supplement them with Chinese movies, music, and TV. This study method can be done during your leisure time so you can learn Chinese passively and in a calm way.

Using these study methods will allow you to learn Chinese passively while in school. I hope you find these tactics useful as you start school. Furthermore, it's not impossible to adapt these study tactics to other school topics.