Job Discussion Forums

Voldermort · Joined: 14 Apr 2004 Posts: 597

I currently teach in high school and in the past I taught at primary level. Next year I am pondering signing a contract with a university. It sounds good, but I really have no idea about teaching students at this level. I have a vision of standing in a lecture hall in front of 100+ students.

Could somebody fill me in with the reality of teaching in a university. For example, what are the average class sizes, the duration of the lessons, student envolvment? What sort of subjects do you cover?

I really don't know if this is the right time for me to attempt teaching at such an advanced level and the thought of a 1 year commitment kinda scares me.

Old Dog · Joined: 22 Oct 2004 Posts: 564 Location: China

Don't worry. I'm sure you'll find that the challenges you've already faced in teaching primary and secondary students will have been infinitely greater than anything you'll find in a university (of whatever callibre!). Don't fall for the old furphy that the higher you go, the harder it is to teach. My hat goes off to those who succeed with kindergarten and primary students. Our rule here is - the more skilled and experienced the teacher, the lower in grade or ability the classes that are allocated.

Roger · Joined: 19 Jan 2003 Posts: 9138

My largest classes numbered less than 50; currently I have classes no larger than 40.
Yes, having taught at high school will have prepared you "fantastically" for the "challenges" at this level. Just don't expect their English to be any higher than what you are already used to hearing or seeing at high school.

Spiderman Too · Posted: Mon May 16, 2005 8:51 am Post subject:

It's not simply a question of universities v middle schools v elementary schools.

Firstly, there is the question of government v private.

There are basically 3 levels of government universities. The top level universities, commonly referred to as 'key' universities, have the best students (judged by their college-entry exam score). Students at level 3 universities previously aspired to study engineering, medicine, whatever, but didn't make the grade so they end up studying business, accounting, English, whatever, and many have a chip on their shoulder as a result.

As for the private universities (colleges), the students are, basically, losers. Their college-entry exam score was so low they could not get into a government university so their parents pay big bucks to place them in a private college.

I once did a stint of part-time teaching at a private college. The kids were the most uncontrollable, 'spoilt-brat', 'couldn't-give-a-f*ck-about-anything' kids that I have ever encountered. And no punishment was permitted. During one of the first classes I took a cell phone away from one of the kids (who received a call during class). I was later told by the F.A.O. not to do it again.

Hey, if you have any doubts about this, send a PM to kev7161. Or read a few of his posts.

I'm currently teaching at a level 2 university but my experience is totally different from an American colleague (at the same university).

I teach freshman English majors; all would-be English teachers. Average of 30 students per class. They are all (well, 99%) highly motivated, enthusiastic and cooperative.

My American colleague teaches non English majors. 60 - 70 students per class. A very low level of English competency. Frustrating!

beck's · Joined: 06 Apr 2003 Posts: 426

Teaching in a public univeristy in China--14 to 16, 45 minute periods a week is one of the easiest teaching gigs on the planet. Really, don't give it a second thought. Compared to kindergarten or high school it's a walk in the park. As an experienced teacher your biggest job will be to find things to fill up the time.

Long ai gu · Joined: 22 Oct 2004 Posts: 135

You've taught Primary school? O my God, how did you do that? I won't go near anything under College or University. You've already taught the most difficult students in China, now it's time for a holiday--take the University/College job--piece of cake... Wink

lowes13 · Joined: 01 Sep 2004 Posts: 56 Location: Jiangsu

My only experience in China so far is in teaching at university and that experience has been very positive. The work load is low and I find the demands of the students to be well within my comfort zone. As long as I�m able to come up with topics that get them talking and keep them interested they�re all deliriously happy, well happy anyway.

I feel I�ve been fortunate enough to have worked at an establishment that takes fairly good care of its FT�s and I�m always happy to supply any info if anyone cares to ask.

I�m taking the other route, university to primary, so I�d appreciate any directions.

Cheers