Job Discussion Forums

[kosmo]

Hi there,

I'm coming to Taiwan to teach in a few months and was wondering what people usually do regarding computer use.

Do most take a notebook with them or purchase one there?

Or is it possible to get by, by using internet cafe's, etc.?

How much will one use a comp for work purposes, or are they mainly for personal use?

Are there a lot of Apple comps in Taiwan?

Any suggestions and comments would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks so much,
- Kosmo

[twinkletoes]

Taipei is a great place to buy a computer. A lot of computer parts are manufactured here, so the prices might be a little of a lot lower than back home. However, you'll have to bring along a Chinese-speaking friend to help you buy one.

You can get by using internet cafe's in the large cities, but I don't know about the smaller towns.

If your school doesn't have a computer, I wouldn't want to work there. What the *&^% kind of school doesn't give it's teachers a computer? Probably one that doesn't have adequate materials for you, and a place where the copy machine is always broken. Ask about this.

I brought a notebook with me.

I use my computer for work purposes every day to look up lessons and games and ideas for my classes. Google for ESL + Games or ESL + "ggod lessons" to get an idea of what is out there. The internet is a treasure trove for lessons.

If you have a cheap notebook, you won't be so scared to say, bring it to class to show your students short clips of movies or whatnot to use in class. If you buy Apple, you'll keep that baby at home.

Maybe some of the more tech-savvy people here can give you more advice.

[Northwood]

If you don't yet own a computer and plan to buy one, I advise you to wait until you get to Taiwan. Generally speaking, they are affordable and most local brands are reliable (and offer good service). Just spend a bit of time talking to people when you get out here. If you are looking to buy a top of the range notebook - that's a whole new issue. My advice is check to see the terms of the warranty and how it will impact on you in the future (global coverage, etc).

I used internet cafes when I arrived. Generally, they drove me crazy (kids playing games and chain smoking.) Some were better than others. I also found it difficult to open some messages/photos/links because of software compatability problems. Also, there is nothing worse than paying cash to simply see if you got anything interesting in your in-box. Look, internet cafes are cool if all you want is to send the odd email now and then.

Apple: Don't know much about them. Seen quite a few about though and a handful of specialist retailers.

My advice - only buy a notebook if you need one and can truly afford it. They have a limited shelf life and you get much higher specs for your buck when you buy a desktop.