In the vast and diverse world of expats in China, there's a group that stands out for all the wrong reasons: English teachers. They're often referred to as "LBH" or "Losers Back Home," a term that seems cruel at first glance but is rooted in some uncomfortable truths about their reputation among other foreigners.Let’s face it, these perceptions didn't come from thin air; they've been years in the making and are based on observations of behavior. English teachers often find themselves sandwiched between discrimination from both Chinese people who view them as less skilled than expats working for multinationals or startups and fellow Westerners who don’t consider teaching a “proper” career.
Why is this? Often described by fellow expat’s in China as ‘LBH’ (Losers Back Home). English teachers seem to face discrimination from all sides, despite being the largest group of foreigners. Perhaps at one time when china's visa requirements were much more lax there was some truth but no longer.
However we are not talking about this minority anymore, these days people have their own reasons for moving overseas and it could be as simple as a desire to learn Mandarin or get away from stressful work culture back home
Here is 7 of the facts why Chinese English teacher expats may feel like they don’t fit into Western society:1. Language barriers - They lack knowledge of mandarin despite years in china2. Lack understanding about their adopted country3. Feel disconnected4. Have to deal with the constant suspicion5. Disappointed by China6. Don't want to return home7. No motivation
To understand this phenomenon, let's look at some historical context and current realities.
1. Many years ago when visa requirements were more relaxed in china English language teachers often came from a pool of unskilled workers that could not find employment in their native countries. This created the perception that teaching english was an "uncool" career path
2. Most schools do not require much experience, skills or knowledge to be hired as an English teacher. There are also opportunities for those who have never had formal training.
3. It is often said that people will pay more attention and take more notice if you tell them about a foreigner who works for a tech startup than when telling someone their friend teaches english in shanghai
4. These days many teachers do not want to go back home, yet they don't feel like locals either. In the long term expats often find themselves with no social safety net and limited options.
5. A survey conducted by China Daily found that "about 73 percent of expatriate English language teachers in China said their friends and family at home believe they are failures if working as an english teacher overseas"
6. While china is a rapidly developing country many chinese people still view teaching foreign languages with low esteem.
7. There has been a change to the demographic profile of people coming from Western countries over recent years, however this hasn't altered public opinion
The term "LBH" doesn’t actually reflect an accurate portrayal as English teachers are not lazy or unskilled and many do have degree’s in their native languages despite that often schools may only ask for a bachelors degree.
For those who find themselves on the wrong end of these negative perceptions, there is hope. Many expats leverage teaching jobs into other opportunities, such as pursuing advanced degrees or transitioning to international business roles based on their experience living and working abroad.
So while this stereotype exists in some form we should note that its not an accurate reflection on english teachers. It's a perception perpetuated by outdated stereotypes and misconceptions about the qualifications of these expats
In conclusion: The term "LBH" is largely unfair to English language teachers who have chosen to work in China, as they face both discrimination from Chinese society for being perceived unskilled and from other Westerners viewing teaching english abroad with low esteem.
Many people find that online learning offers more opportunities and less stress than classroom environments. Some companies like Go Online Teacher allow their students a 14-day money back guarantee or a full refund if the student decides to switch between classes
By better understanding these historical contexts and current realities, we can work towards changing negative perceptions about this group of expats who contribute significantly to China's education system.
English teachers in china may face discrimination from other westerners living there as well. This often comes down to cultural differences as they are perceived to be lazy for teaching english
It appears that the lack of skill or qualifications and visa requirements are largely a myth, especially with most schools now having higher expectations than ever before!
LBH: Why are English Teachers in China Perceived As ‘Losers Back Home’? is a reflection on outdated stereotypes rather than reality. We should appreciate these individuals for their contributions to international education
For example a report by the People's Daily revealed that 44% of expatriates who teach english
Add a Comment
