A Deeper Dive
into the world of teaching in China
1. The term "LBH" is often used to describe expats who teach English in China, but what does it really mean? It's a complex issue that can't be reduced to a simple stereotype.
For example, when an American teacher in China says they're feeling homesick and missing their family back home, some people might say "you're just an LBH", implying that the problem is not with the system or society, but rather with the individual. But this kind of thinking ignores all sorts of factors like poverty, lack of resources, corruption, etc.
What sets China apart from other countries? Is there something unique to Chinese culture and history?
2. The term "LBH" also implies that these teachers are somehow less qualified or capable than others because they're not teaching in their native country. But what does it mean for someone's qualifications when they have experience working with children, adapting to different environments, managing classrooms? Does the location of a teacher affect his/her skills?
One thing is clear: using derogatory labels like "LBH" isn't going to solve any problems or improve teaching conditions in China. Instead of perpetuating stereotypes and stigmas, we need more nuanced conversations about what it takes to be an effective educator here.
3. Another point worth exploring is why some people view expat teachers as outsiders or inferior. What cultural biases are at play when someone assumes a Westerner can't possibly understand Chinese students' needs?
We also have to think critically about the power dynamics between native English speakers and non-native speakers in any given setting, whether it's language class, workplace, classroom.
4. In order for us as teachers or expats living here to truly make progress toward our goals of helping kids learn more effectively, we need to challenge these kinds of assumptions and stereotypes about each other (and ourselves). By focusing on the complexities rather than oversimplifying them, I believe it's possible to create a community that values collaboration over competition - one where everyone has something unique and valuable to offer.
5. What do you think is a major obstacle for expat English teachers trying to help Chinese students learn more effectively in class? Are there any additional challenges we face as learners or practitioners when teaching language arts across cultures?
For instance, are cultural differences affecting our approach to the curriculum?
The stereotype probably started with the idea that teaching English in China is a fallback option, a career path for people who couldn’t make it elsewhere. But let’s not forget, many teachers here are chasing opportunities that feel like a second chance. Imagine being a former musician who can’t find a gig, then suddenly landing a job teaching in Shanghai. It’s not just about survival—it’s about reinvention. The LBH label might be a cheap shot, but it also reveals a deeper truth: the world of expat teaching is a mix of grit, humor, and a little bit of chaos.
Still, it’s easy to see why the term sticks. Teaching in China can feel like walking into a sitcom where the rules are written in a different language. One minute you’re explaining “past tense” to a class of 10-year-olds, and the next, you’re debating whether “butterfly” is a verb or a snack. The cultural gaps are huge, but they’re also the reason the job is so rewarding. Think of it as a crash course in adaptability. You’re not just teaching English—you’re learning how to navigate a world where “yes” might mean “I’m considering it” and “no” could be a polite way to say “I’ll think about it.”
There’s also the financial angle. Many teachers here are here to build a life, not just a resume. The salary might not match their expectations, but it’s often enough to fund adventures, savings, or even a side hustle. Take Sarah, a former school counselor from Colorado, who now runs a language exchange app in Chengdu. “I didn’t come here for a paycheck,” she says. “I came for the freedom to create something new. The LBH label? It’s like calling a surfer a ‘beach loser’—they’re just riding waves, not drowning.”
But let’s not ignore the reality: teaching in China isn’t for the faint of heart. The workload is intense, the bureaucracy can be a maze, and the cultural adjustments are constant. Yet, for many, it’s also a chance to grow in ways they never expected. James, a former IT specialist in London, found himself teaching in Xi’an after a career pivot. “I used to think I was a ‘loser’ for changing paths,” he admits. “But here, I’ve discovered a passion for education that I never knew I had. The LBH label? It’s a joke, but it’s also a reminder that sometimes, the road less traveled is the one that leads to the best stories.”
The truth is, the LBH stereotype is as much about perception as it is about reality. It’s easy to laugh at the idea of a “loser” teaching in a country with 1.4 billion people, but that’s the beauty of it. Teaching in China is a melting pot of experiences, where people from all walks of life find themselves in the same classroom. It’s not about being a “loser” or a “winner”—it’s about being part of a global community that’s constantly evolving. And if you’re lucky, you’ll meet someone who turns your “LBH” into a “LBO” (Legend Behind the Scenes).
For those considering a move, it’s worth noting that Teaching China Teaching Jobs in China offers a wide range of opportunities, from traditional schools to online platforms. The job market here is diverse, and while the LBH label might linger, it doesn’t define the experience. Whether you’re a former teacher, a career changer, or just someone looking for a new adventure, the journey can be transformative. As one expat put it, “I didn’t come here to be a ‘loser’—I came to find my place in a world that’s bigger than I ever imagined.”
So, what’s the takeaway? The LBH stereotype is a relic of misunderstanding, but it’s also a reminder that growth often starts with a laugh. Teaching in China isn’t just about language—it’s about connection, resilience, and the courage to start over. The next time someone tosses around the term, remember: behind every “LBH” is a story worth telling. And who knows? Maybe the next time you meet a teacher here, they’ll be the one giving the lecture on how to turn a “loser” into a “legend.”
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