ef Teaching in Korea
Dear editor,
I really don't think the people of Korea realize how much me and others enjoy teaching here. It's an honor, and we love learning more about your culture and values.
The work and experience is wonderful, and I believe we are successful with our task as teachers. Unfortunately there is one problem that stands between us and success; communication.
It is very difficult to communicate within our schools because of language problems. When you mail or phone the Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education, they ignore you or don't have time to talk on the telephone.
We are open for abuse, but the only answer you get is: ``Schools have their own rules and you must communicate with them. We don't interfere.''
When you do manage to talk within the school you get accused of not having respect for the culture and regulations of the school, and Korea. They put you on a guilt trip, and abuse you more.
This is all very sad, because we love our work, the culture and everything, but need to be recognized as teachers and adults as well. Some of us are older than 30 years old, with experience as teachers.
We can be better teachers and do more if we don't feel abused. Many teachers stay for a few months or one year, and just leave because of this. It is not good for teacher-student relationships, and students don't get the education they deserve.
I'm glad to say that not all schools have this negative and rude attitude toward English teachers. Many are very good for their teachers and treat them fair and with respect.
My question is: ``When will the government do something about this, and make sure the students off Korea get the best education they deserve?"
Tjaart Coetzee
Yeoju, Gyeonggi Province