7 Things to Know about Teaching in China
Posted on October 5th, 2011 in Certification Map | No Comments »
Teaching in China is becoming a very popular choice for educators. Whether you are a native English or Chinese speaker, there are many opportunities to teach in China. But not only is China geographically distant from the United States, it is culturally, politically and economically far from what Americans are typically accustomed to.
Teaching in China can be one of the most rewarding experiences of an educator’s life, but traveling to such a unique country requires a degree of initial research. To help you prepare for your adventure overseas, here is our list of seven things you should look into before departing to teaching in China:
1. Your Employer
Opportunities for teaching in China will include many different levels and subjects of instruction in various types of schools. Much like in the United States, every school in China is different. You will be able to teach in schools that can range from the U.S. equivalent of grades K-12. Make sure you communicate with the administration of your host school early and often to know exactly what is expected you. Ask if the school is affiliated with the government, can supply a letter of intent to take to the Chinese Consulate, will provide you with a work permit / visa, has medical coverage and will allow you adequate time off.
2. The Culture
Teaching in China of course means living in China, which will undoubtedly be a drastic change from what you have experienced in the United States or during vacations abroad. You will be immersed in Chinese culture, amongst Chinese students, parents and professionals. Although you may not have mastered the language, make sure you study Chinese culture before teaching in China. Start with the U.S. Department of State’s travel information on the country, and research as many travel blogs and guides as you can before depart.
3. The Experience of Veteran Teachers in China
The best way to learn what you should expect when teaching ESL in China is to discuss it with teachers who have already been there. Ideally, it’s best to communicate with teachers who have instructed at the type of school you plan on working at and within the same subject, but having as many meaningful conversations as possible is important. There are many websites that provide discussion forums and information about teaching in China, so make sure you reach out.
4. Your Students
Know whom you will be teaching and what you will be teaching them. This includes the number of students, the classroom type, the subject, their level of English comprehension, and also the cultural requirements and expectations of students in China. Doing so will ensure that you have accurate expectations of your teaching experience, but will also allow you to better prepare, and thus better educate your new students.
5. The Curriculum
It is key to know whether you will be working with a set curriculum or whether there will be flexibility within the subject matter you will be instructing in China. If you are a certified teacher (ESL or otherwise) you will likely have experience with flexible curriculums and inventive teaching methods, but your host school may require you to adhere to their curriculum. Again, knowledge of this requirement and of the curriculum itself will ease not only your teaching experience in China but ensure that you’re well versed in the material you’ll be expected to instruct on.
6. The Region
Much like if you were heading to China for vacation, it is important to know a lot about the region where you will be living and working. Will it be hot and humid or cold and snowy during your stay? China is a massive country, thus conditions differ greatly from region to region. A major factor to also consider is whether you will be staying in a vast metropolis, such as Beijing, or small town in the country. Research the climate and environment of your destination and plan accordingly.
7. Your School
Teaching in China can be a vastly different experience according to the facilities you’ll be working in. Will there be technology available in the classroom? Will you have your own office? Will there be air conditioning? In China, the quality of school facilities can be disparate from town to town. Though being in a state of the art building may not be what you want or need, knowing what to expect from your school important to planning your lesson plans and, ultimately, your trip.
