CET Harbin vs Regular Harbin Mandarin Language Program

[uk kid]

Hi Everyone.

I am just wondering about the difference between the CET Harbin program and how it differs from the regular Harbin Institute of Technology Language Program.

From what i have read, the CET program is rated very highly, but of course this is reflected in the tuition fees.

Is the regular Harbin program considered to be as effective? What about class sizes?

How easy would it be to get a good 1 - 1 tutor in Harbin to increase the personalized help that I would be missing out on not being in the CET program?

I am currently studying at Peking / Beida but find i get too little Mandarin exposure outside of class.

thank you very much

[sangbhs008]

I've looked into it, and I'm 95% committed to enrolling in the regular HIT program starting next March. For me, its simply a matter of money.

Basically, CET kids are pretty much secluded from everyone else, as they take their own classes and live with each other. Was visiting the city a few weekends ago to see check the scene out, and ran into a few at a bar, and they said they haven't hung out with, or even met, any other Americans or foreign students.

As for finding a tutor, I'm sure its pretty easy to find a Chinese student. As long as you pay them, most take it seriously and will help you a lot.

I was told class sizes of regular HIT classes are no more than 15. Something I'm a bit concerned about is the language barrier between me (I'm American) and the other students, particularly Russians and Koreans. Sure, I don't want to be speaking much English, but I'm sure I will occasionally need some English explanations for weird grammar and such. Also, I have no idea if the textbooks they use have English translations for vocab and such. Could pose a problem...

Anyway, I am 95% committed to enrolling starting in March, so I too would appreciate any further information (particularly regarding the language barrier issue I raised)

[kdavid]

I've only heard great things about the CET program. I had a colleague who did their program and he highly recommends it for those who can afford it.

I've only heard poor reviews about the HIT program. Though you're sure to get top-notch Chinese instructions (the Chinese style of teaching is very different than the western style), if you're taking beginner classes, you'll be in classes with other students of varying motivation. Some students are also (initially) serious about learning Mandarin, while others are just doing a semester abroad, with no intention of learning Mandarin to a fluent level. Motivation plays a huge level later on in the semester. If students aren't showing the right amount of energy, it rubs off on the teacher and the teacher can easily become discouraged with the class, leading to boring and noneducational classes.

With the HIT program, you'll be thrown into all four skill sets--listening, speaking, reading and writing. This can be a negative for those who want to jump start their speaking skills and later work on characters; though starting character work early is a good idea for those interested in learning Mandarin to a fluent level.

My advice (I've been in Harbin going on four years): enroll in the Bincai school. It's a private language school near HIT. You'll pay 700 RMB/month for 2 hours of group classes and 2 hours of private one-to-one Monday - Friday. As a private school, you're more likely to be in classes with other students who are intrinsically motivated, and therefore passionate about learning Mandarin. This is the best bang for your buck probably in the whole country. When you're not at Bincai, find a private tutor to study with for another 2 hours a day. Mandarin tutors vary from 15 - 30 RMB/hour based on experience.

This type of arrangement will allow you to fully be in the driver's seat of your own education. Expensive CET classes or classes at HIT with a mixed bunch of (de)motivated students can be discouraging. At Bincai, and with a private tutor, you'll be able to study whatever you want at your own pace.

[uk kid]

Thanks for the replies guys,

K David - with the Bincai school being private, how does that work with student visas etc? And what is the official Bincai school website?

And just how cold are we taking during a Harbin winter?? I have lived in Ontario, Canada during a winter where it gets cold. Would just like to hear your thoughts.

Thanks a lot guys, really appreciate it

[laowang]

We are wroking with HIT and Bincai. Here is the link of Bincai School http://www.bincai.com/chinese/

Regarding the weather, it is cold in Harbin. -18 on a average. You need warm clothes with you. On the campus, it not a problem, only 10 minutes outsite, so it is OK.

[vkim67]

I am looking into applying to HArbin Institute of Technology (LANGUAGE program only, not undergraduate) and I couldn't find any application for that. Do you know where I can find the application and could you describe the application process please (LANGUAGE STUDENTS)

Did anyone have this problem with any other universities? I'm also considering applying to Jilin Normal and Jilin U (but I haven't researched them thoroughly yet).

Thanks!

[laowang]

Hi vkim67,

HIT website closed about 2 weeks ago for some reason. Sometimes, the universities do not pay attention to their email boxes and not so efficiency. We have some information for your reference at http://www.hyccchina.com/Univercity.aspx.

Ready to help any friends to study in Northeast China.

[vkim67]

Really?

These websites have been working for me the past week:

Chinese: http://www.hit.edu.cn/index-2009winter2.htm

English: http://219.217.227.137/students/undergraduate.htm

Thanks, I will check out that website for more information though.

[bobbadeer]

@sangbhs008 - could you provide an update on your experience in the regular Harbin program? Thanks!