Middle Kingdom LifePerspectives on Living & Teaching in China
Friendships in China
For the most part, and there are exceptions, the doctrine of quid pro quo does not apply in regard to foreign teachers who are seen as “just passing through.” You were simply an “iron” that was “struck” while the opportunity was hot, i.e., you were simply exploited.
Teaching Subjects Other Than English in China
Foreigners who are certified as primary and secondary school teachers in their countries of origin, especially in math and the natural sciences, may want to consider applying to international schools in Beijing, Shanghai or Guangzhou. Salaries at these schools are often comparable to or even better than what one could earn in his or her native country.
What Do Foreign English Teachers in China Actually Teach?
Chinese students are typically overworked as well as both physically and mentally exhausted and about the last thing they want to do is spend what little free time they have learning how to speak English: In about 90% of all cases, primary and secondary school students are attending private English language schools because their parents told them that they have no choice in the matter.
Everything You Need to Know About Teaching Contracts in China
Whereas contracts are viewed as static and binding agreements in the West, in China, they are typically treated as a starting point for ongoing, often impromptu, negotiations and amendments. This should not be interpreted to mean that one’s contract is unimportant or inconsequential…
Do I Have to be a White Native-speaker to get a job teaching English in China?
Highly experienced and qualified non-native English teachers need to appreciate that they will not be teaching English, per se, in China. Why would you want to waste your education and experience working in a country that does not truly want or need you to teach English?
What Qualifications Do I Need to Teach English in China?
The requirements state that a “foreign educational expert,” or teacher, should hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree and more than two years of experience.” The work experience does not necessarily have to be in the field of education, but can be in any area deemed appropriate or relevant by the prospective employer.
Teaching English in China
Overall, those who report the greatest degree of personal satisfaction with their decision to teach English in China are those who are either recent college graduates—that is, ones who are looking for some cultural diversity and travel experience before returning home to pursue their “real” careers—or retirees
What You Should Know About Contract Renewal
Unfortunately, when all one was really hired to do is converse in English from 12 to 20 hours per week (as the schools see it), there truly isn’t much room to bargain with, realistically speaking—certainly not when there are dozens upon dozens of other English-speaking people willing to take your place.
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