location
China is in the midst of a slow explosion. Five thousand years into its history and not yet anywhere near past its prime, China today is very much a nation under construction. Chinese history is a staggeringly long tale of civilization, conquest, and expansion. Everywhere, old buildings, roads, traditions, and ideas are being torn down as new frameworks are erected, some making careful use of the past, others branching out in new directions altogether. China is dynamic and exciting, with sprawling, sophisticated cities. It is diverse, with dozens of minority nationalities, cuisines, and cultures. It is a place of tremendous natural beauty, with vast, fertile plains and expansive mountain panoramas. Don't let the world's most populous country intimidate you. Get to know the people, places, and pleasures of the real China, as it will be an experience that will surpass all of your expectations.
From temple-hopping to bar-hopping, there is a great deal to see and do in China. Those with specialized interests can indulge to their hearts' content, and those without will find no better opportunity to develop them. China's neon-lit cities, fascinating age-old customs, incredible sense of history, and gorgeous sights will quench the soul of even the most travel-thirsty explorer.
For centuries, "Zhongguo" or the Middle Kingdom was an enigma to most of the outside world. Hiding behind a culture with over 5,000 years of history, the Chinese seemed content to remain this way. Images of China such as emperors ruling with a mandate from heaven, imperial courts, Tang dynasty poetry, Ming dynasty vases, calligraphy, Confucianism, Taoism, martial arts, dragons, jade, temples, and the Great Wall to more contemporary events such as the fall of the last emperor, the Republican move to Taiwan, the rise of the Communist Party, use of traditional versus simplified characters, the current debate of reunification, as well as the modern figures in Chinese history, Sun Yatsen, Zhou Enlai, Chiang Kaishek, Mao Zedong, Deng Xiaoping, Lee Tenghui, and Jiang Zemin all contribute to the fascinating history and legacy of the world's most populated country.
For more information on China, pick up a copy of Let's Go China or visit www.letsgo.com. Content provided courtesy of Let's Go, Inc.
teaching assignments
Placements for Teach in China participants are available at an elementary, middle or high school, college or university in a wide range of urban and rural locations. Placements are driven by the demand for English-speaking teachers and the requirements of each host institution, so CIEE cannot guarantee to honor your placement requests.
Most assignments will be for English language teachers. Those wishing to teach more specialized courses must have relevant experience. A Master's degree in the subject field is usually required. CIEE cannot guarantee placement in any subject other than English.
A typical teaching load is 16 classes per week, depending on the school. In addition to actual time spent in the classroom, participants are expected to devote time to class planning, presentations, faculty meetings, and a modicum of extra-curricular activities. Participants should assume a 35-40 work week. In return, you will receive:
- A minimum local salary of 3,000 RMB per month
- A free flight home from China (one-way) provided by the host institution if you successfully complete an academic year or two-semester contract
orientation
All Teach in China participants receive a week-long orientation in Shanghai upon arrival. Conducted by CIEE staff and local experts, the orientation program will provide you with important cultural and practical information to help you adapt to life in China. Some local sightseeing, housing, and meals are included. The training course will give you the resources you need to be an effective teacher and will help you develop essential skills for teaching, including a study of the theories and practical applications of teaching English as a Foreign Language in China.
academic calendar
The Chinese academic school year beings in late August or early September. The first semester ends a couple of weeks prior to the Chinese New Year, which changes each year. The second semester generally begins 2 weeks after the New Year and continues until June or July, depending on the school.
Various teaching contract durations are available in China:
- 1 semester/5 months beginning in February
- 2 semesters/10 months beginning in February (including a 2-month summer break)
- 1 semester/5 months beginning in August
- 2 semesters/10 months beginning in August (Chinese academic year)
housing
Housing is provided free of charge by the host institution to all participants of the Teach in China program. Accommodations will be in the 'foreign visitors' quarters, usually on campus. All accommodations have heat and some have air conditioning. Most include a fully furnished bedroom, sitting room, bathroom, and access to shared cooking facilities. The quality of the facilities varies greatly from school to school and may be quite different from what you are accustomed to in the U.S.
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