Teaching abroad, particularly in a country as culturally diverse and linguistically challenging as China, can be a thrilling yet daunting experience. For International Qualified Teacher Status (IQTS) holders, the journey is often filled with unexpected hurdles and unique challenges. This blog post will delve into six common problems that IQTS international teachers often encounter in China, offering insights and potential solutions to help navigate these issues.
1. Language Barrier
Unsurprisingly, the language barrier is one of the most significant challenges faced by IQTS teachers in China. While English is taught in most Chinese schools, the level of proficiency varies greatly. This can lead to communication difficulties, both inside and outside the classroom.
Moreover, the Chinese language is known for its complexity and distinct regional dialects. This can make everyday tasks such as shopping, ordering food, or asking for directions quite challenging for those unfamiliar with the language.
Overcoming the Language Barrier
One effective way to overcome this hurdle is by learning basic Mandarin phrases and sentences. There are numerous language learning apps and online courses available that cater to different learning styles and proficiency levels. Immersing oneself in the local culture and engaging in conversation with locals can also greatly improve language skills.
Inside the classroom, visual aids, gestures, and body language can be used to supplement verbal communication. Additionally, collaborating with local teachers can be beneficial in bridging the language gap with students.
2. Cultural Differences
China’s rich history and diverse culture can be fascinating, yet it can also present a steep learning curve for foreigners. Cultural norms and social etiquette in China can be vastly different from those in Western countries. This can lead to misunderstandings or even unintentional offence.
For instance, the concept of ‘face’ or ‘mianzi’, which refers to one’s reputation and dignity in the Chinese society, is deeply ingrained in the Chinese culture. Actions that may seem harmless to foreigners could potentially cause someone to ‘lose face’ and lead to strained relationships.
Adapting to Cultural Differences
Understanding and respecting the local culture is key to a successful teaching experience in China. This involves learning about the country’s history, traditions, and social norms. Reading books, attending cultural events, and interacting with locals can provide valuable insights into the Chinese culture.
It’s also important to be open-minded and adaptable. What may work in a Western classroom may not necessarily be effective in a Chinese one. Being flexible and willing to adjust teaching methods according to the local culture can greatly enhance the teaching and learning experience.
3. Teaching Styles and Expectations
Teaching styles and expectations in China can be quite different from those in Western countries. Chinese education is often characterised by a more formal and structured approach, with a strong emphasis on discipline and respect for authority. This can be a stark contrast to the more relaxed and interactive teaching styles common in Western classrooms.
Furthermore, Chinese students are often under immense pressure to perform well acadically due to the highly competitive nature of the Chinese education system. This can lead to high expectations from both students and parents, which can be challenging for foreign teachers to manage.
Navigating Teaching Styles and Expectations
Understanding the local education system and teaching styles is crucial. This can be achieved through research, observation, and discussions with local teachers and administrators. It’s also helpful to establish clear expectations with students and parents at the beginning of the school year to avoid misunderstandings later on.
While it’s important to respect the local teaching styles, introducing interactive and creative teaching methods can also be beneficial. This can make learning more enjoyable for students and encourage them to actively participate in class.
4. Homesickness
Living and working in a foreign country can be an exciting adventure, but it can also lead to feelings of homesickness. Being far away from family and friends, coupled with the challenges of adapting to a new culture and work environment, can be quite overwhelming.
Dealing with Homesickness
Keeping in touch with loved ones through video calls and social media can help alleviate feelings of homesickness. It’s also beneficial to build a support network in China by making friends with other international teachers and locals.
Engaging in familiar activities such as cooking home meals, watching favourite TV shows, or listening to familiar music can also provide comfort. Additionally, exploring the local area and embracing the new experiences can help create a sense of belonging and make the transition easier.
5. Work-Life Balance
Teaching can be a demanding job, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance can be challenging, especially in a foreign country. Long working hours, coupled with the pressure to deliver high-quality education, can lead to stress and burnout.
Maintaining a Healthy Work-Life Balance
Setting boundaries and managing time effectively can help maintain a healthy work-life balance. This involves allocating time for relaxation and leisure activities, and not bringing work home whenever possible.
Practising self-care is also crucial. This can include regular exercise, a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices such as meditation or yoga. Seeking support from colleagues, friends, and professional counsellors can also be beneficial.
6. Legal and Administrative Issues
Legal and administrative issues such as visa applications, work permits, and contracts can be complex and confusing, especially for those unfamiliar with the Chinese legal system. Misunderstandings or mistakes in these areas can lead to serious consequences.
Navigating Legal and Administrative Issues
Seeking advice from reliable sources is crucial when dealing with legal and administrative issues. This can include the school’s administrative staff, local government offices, or legal professionals. It’s also important to thoroughly read and understand all documents before signing.
Being organised and keeping track of important dates and deadlines can also help avoid potential issues. Additionally, having a basic understanding of the Chinese legal system and workers’ rights can be beneficial.
In conclusion, while teaching in China as an IQTS teacher can present various challenges, it can also be a rewarding and enriching experience. With the right preparation, understanding, and adaptability, these hurdles can be navigated successfully, leading to a memorable teaching journey in the Middle Kingdom.
Empower Your Teaching Career with The IQTS at UWE
As you navigate the complexities of teaching in China, The IQTS at UWE stands ready to elevate your professional journey. With our International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) programme, you can overcome the barriers of stringent qualification requirements, enhance your career progression, connect with a global network of educators, and gain a comprehensive understanding of international curricula. Embrace the opportunity to balance your professional development with your teaching commitments through our flexible online study options. Make Your Next Step towards a more fulfilling teaching experience and a brighter career path with the iQTS programme.