Foreign Teachers in a Concord College of Sino-Canada

Stephanie Liang， Ph.D.Acting Canadian VP

July 2016

Canada vs. China

Contents I. BackgroundII. Foreign Teachers in Hunan Concord College of Sino-CanadaIII. Some Interview Responses from Foreign TeachersIV. Recommendations

I Background1. This is me

1999-2003

2016

Hunan Concord College of Sino-Canada

2. Foreign Teachers in Concord Colleges of Sino-CanadaWhere do they come fromWhat do they teachHow long do they work in ChinaWhat is their experience in China

II. Foreign Teachers in Hunan Concord College of Sino-Canada 1. Definitions Foreign teachers Hunan CCSC

2. Reasons to teach in ChinaChinese history/culture/people/a mission of interacting with students to improve their English

3. ChallengesIdeological, psychological, educational, cultural and sometimes physical

4. ManagementTo help foreign teachers to adapt to the new social and academic environmentTo maximize the value of their teaching and living experience in China

III. Some Interview Responses from Foreign Teachers1. What attracted you to come to China to teach?The opportunity to learn about a new culture in the fastest growing economic region of the world.  It allows me the chance to learn about one of the oldest civilizations, and to explore other areas of Southeast Asia.

2. How is the experience different from your previous international teaching experience?  A lack of fear for my personal safety as when I lived and taught in southern Turkey.  Ease of travel on a daily basis outside of the school, and ease of socializing with the locals.

3. What do you think about the cultural differences/educational differences that have influenced you during your stay in China?  The whole process of “saving face” has altered how I go about correcting someone or pointing out something was not done as agreed upon.

4. What would you personally like to do in order to increase the value of your life in China?Learn more conversational/survival Chinese.  Explore more areas of the country, and visit more public/private schools or universities.

5. What would you say to a new teacher who will join the same school that you are teaching at right now? Keep a sense of humor and an open mind, as you will need it to cope.  Plus, show a lot of patience and enjoy the wonders of China.

IV. Recommendations1. Be psychologically prepared2. Acknowledge the differences3. Be open, positive and flexible to

adapt

4. Grow with students while helping them succeed5. Learn the culture and language6. A work-life balance7. Survive and thrive

Then, in spite of all the ups and downs, why still come to China to teach?

Work with Chinese students and help them succeed

Real Chinese Food

Acknowledgments

Welcome to visit ChinaStephanie Liang, Ph.D.Acting Canadian Vice PrincipalHunan Concord College of Sino-CanadaChangsha, Hunan, ChinaEmail: stephanie.liang@hccsc.com.cnWeChat: 649816833

Thank you for your attention!