You Won't Believe This! Quirky Things About Teaching in Taiwan

13 December 2024 • Taiwan

So, you're thinking about teaching English in Taiwan? Awesome choice! Taiwan is a fantastic place to live and work, with super-friendly people, amazing food, beautiful scenery and sumptuous hot-springs for relaxing in at weekends. But be prepared for some serious culture shock in the classroom!

For those about to make the journey East for the very first time, there will definitely be some "Wait, what?!" moments. Here are a few quirky things that make teaching in Taiwan a unique and unforgettable experience:

1. The "No Red Ink" Rule

Get ready to ditch your red pen! In Taiwan, red ink is associated with death and negativity. Correcting student work in red is a big no-no. Instead, teachers use blue or green pens.

2. The "Good Morning" Symphony

Forget quietly entering the classroom. Every morning, as you walk in, you'll be greeted by a chorus of enthusiastic "Good morning, teacher!" It's loud, it's energetic, and it definitely wakes you up!

3. The Shoe Shuffle

Leave your outdoor shoes at the door! In Taiwan, it's customary to wear indoor slippers in schools and homes. You'll likely have a designated shoe cubby and a collection of comfy slippers for navigating the school hallways.

4. Chopstick Mastery is a Must

While you don't need to be an expert, having basic chopstick skills is essential. You'll be using them for everything from school lunches to staff dinners. Plus, your students will be super impressed if you can conquer those slippery noodles! Just ensure you don't walk and eat at the same time which is considered somewhat rude in Taiwan.

5. Be Prepared for "Teacher, I Love You!"

Don't be alarmed if your students profess their love for you. In Taiwanese culture, expressing affection towards teachers is quite common. It's a sweet gesture that shows appreciation for your hard work.

6. The "English Names" Phenomenon

Many Taiwanese students adopt English names, and some choices can be quite... interesting. Get ready to meet students named Apple, Happy, and even Batman!

7. The Enthusiasm for English... Songs?

Taiwanese students LOVE to sing English songs, even if they don't fully understand the lyrics. Get ready for some enthusiastic (and sometimes off-key) renditions of your favorite tunes.

8. The "Teacher, Are You Married?" Inquisition

Be prepared for personal questions, especially about your marital status. It's a common topic of conversation in Taiwan, and your students are naturally curious about your life.

9. The Power of "Guanxi"

Guanxi, or relationships, is incredibly important in Taiwanese culture. Building strong relationships with your colleagues, students, and parents will make your teaching experience much smoother and more enjoyable.

10. The "No Trash Cans" Conundrum

This one is baffling at first. You'll rarely find public trash cans in Taiwan. People carry their trash with them until they find a proper disposal spot at home or in a convenience store. It's all part of keeping Taiwan clean and green!

Embrace the Quirks!

Teaching in Taiwan is an adventure filled with unexpected moments and cultural differences. Embrace the quirks, be open to new experiences, and you'll have an amazing time!

Bonus Tip: Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases. It will go a long way in building rapport with your students and supporting your daily life in Taiwan.

Ready to take the plunge? Start researching teaching opportunities in Taiwan today! You won't regret it.