Speaking Chinese?

[AceHBK]

I have no idea where to put this so I apologize if this is in the wrong section and please move to where it is appropriate if necessary.

Due to the fact that I take Kung Fu I have an interest in learning Chinese (also busines wise it would be a good idea as well) Before I get with a teacher to learn (schedule doesnt have time for a tutor right now) , does anyone know of any software that they would recommend to start the learning process?

Many thanks!

 

[OnlyAnEgg]

Looking through my bookmarks, I find this: http://www.uni.edu/becker/chinese2.html#grammar
Hope it helps. Learning Chinese is, at best, the most difficult thing in the world.

Have fun!

 

[HKphooey]

Not sure what the name of the company is, but they have partnered with Barnes & Noble to produce a language series. I am learning Japanese and the system is very easy to pick up and it is not very expensive. I will check the brand name tonight.

 

[AceHBK]

Thanks you guys!

There is so much stuff out there it is hard to know where to start.
From Rosetta Stone to Instant Immersion to Pimsleur I have no idea where to begin b/c I dont know which is good at teaching.

 

[dmax999]

I thought this site looked promising, but I haven't subscribed yet so can't offer an opinion.
http://www.chineseon.net/main.php

Rosetta stone appears to be the "industry leader", but it is a bit frustrating to start cold with. I by no means am fluent with Chinese, but I have gotten a basic start without any real problems, Mandrin that is apparently Cantonese is a different story. Give it a try, it will probably be easier then most people tell you.

Once you can start reading, try stuff like this:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/chinese/simp/hi/default.stm
BBC Chinese

 

[chessman71]

Learning Chinese through software may not be the way to go. I can only think of one program that would help, but it's designed to help people who are already studying with their ability to read. I would suggest you get a book and tape set first. If you like it, then try the Pimsaleur (sp?). I never used them but they get good reviews, for what that's worth. Then work your way up to a teacher.

Learning Chinese is the most difficult thing I've ever done in my life and I'm a long way from speaking or reading fluently despite living in Taiwan for years, studying for years, and having a Taiwanese wife.

Good luck.

 

[Jade Tigress]

Here's one to get started on Mandarin:
http://www.chinawestexchange.com/Mandarin/

And Cantonese:
http://www.chinawestexchange.com/Cantonese/index.htm\

Good Luck. I have had an interest in learning Chinese too but time has prohibited much studying. Since I study a southern style I have been interested in Cantonese, but I understand Mandarin is easier for English speaking people to learn, so that's the route I'll probably go when I actually get some serious study time for it.

 

[AceHBK]

Thank you everyone for the advice and links.
I am nervous but kind of anxious to learn at the same time.
I will definately come back to this thread and keep you all posted on how things go.

 

[mantis]

date a chinese fob

 

[AceHBK]

I thought this site looked promising, but I haven't subscribed yet so can't offer an opinion.
http://www.chineseon.net/main.php

Rosetta stone appears to be the "industry leader", but it is a bit frustrating to start cold with. I by no means am fluent with Chinese, but I have gotten a basic start without any real problems, Mandrin that is apparently Cantonese is a different story. Give it a try, it will probably be easier then most people tell you.

Once you can start reading, try stuff like this:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/chinese/simp/hi/default.stm
BBC Chinese

Very true about rosetta stone and I am finding this out now and I am at my wits end with it. Talk about crash course.

 

[HKphooey]

Just shot you a PM.

http://www.simonsays.com/content/index.cfm?sid=128

Not saying it is the best, just the best for me and I learned the more useful information from it.