
All participants take active part in a weeklong orientation program conducted by experienced CIEE staff in Shanghai. Since 1981, CIEE has been organizing university semester and year-long exchange programs for more than 100 students per semester, International Faculty Development Seminars, Gap Year Abroad programs in Shanghai; as well as outbound Work and Travel and USA High School programs. The CIEE Shanghai Office has the history, staff, and knowledge to help you prepare for a successful teaching position in China.
CIEE Teach in China Orientation provides:
Airport pick up on designated arrival date in Shanghai
Classes on TEFL theory and practice
Mandarin language lessons
Cross-culture training and cultural problem solving seminars
Accommodation at a clean, friendly hotel and most meals
Sightseeing trips and cultural performances
Transportation from orientation to your host institution
During orientation week you will get to know the CIEE staff well and build a relationship with the support network that is available to you throughout your time in China. CIEE has dedicated teacher support staff that is a liaison between you and your school to negotiate work related problems. Dedicated CIEE Teach in China staff are there to help you work your way through cultural issues, or can even provide travel advice for your weekend destinations. Most importantly, in case of emergency, they are also there to help.
The Shanghai CIEE staff is only part of it-wait until you meet your fellow teachers-all embarking on similar adventures at your side! During the week, relationships are forged, travel plans made, and visits promised. You will leave for your teaching placement with connections throughout China!
Additionally, there is learning and adjusting. Each day will be filled with seminars and experiences that will help you prepare to teach English effectively, communicate with the Chinese and understand the language, all the while building new friendships with your fellow CIEE teachers.
A sample day of CIEE orientation:
7:00am-8:30am: Breakfast at your hotel with fellow CIEE Teachers and CIEE staff members
8:30am-10:00am: Mandarin Language lessons taught by Teachers of Chinese as a Foreign language
10:10am-12:00am: Cross culture training lectures or TEFL practicum in regards to Chinese students
12:00pm-1:30pm: Lunch with fellow CIEE Teachers, CIEE staff members, and Professional lecturers
2:00pm-4:00pm: Chinese cooking class at local community center (learn to make real Chinese food!!!)
4:00pm-6:30pm: Personal time
6:30-9:00pm: Sichuan Dinner, maybe consisting of Frog Hotpot! Followed by a traditional Chinese face changing performance, or maybe a Chinese acrobatics show complete with the “Circle of Death”