In response to Re: Probationary Periods For FT's in China (cunning lingisut)

"Is exactly what we FT's need like we need a hole in the head!
... But my experience as a FT here in China also tells me that Chinese bosses in the education sector usually show considerable respect to rich FT's working for them, especially to those who happen to be whites from North America."

This post bothers me because it does not seem to take into account all of the other reasoned posts on the subject.

It's my personal opinion, so it needn't...

To lump all institutions together under the "education sector" is blatantly unfair.

Oh, you want to distinguish between them. So bad treatment in the grottier sectors is ok, is it?

Not all Chinese bosses are bad people and if they express a preference for North American white people that's their business and is more likely to relate to the "love affair" that China seems to have with North America. Take for example the health sector. Almost 30 years ago China was in the top ten according to official statistics, now it it near the bottom -Why? - because it copied America's system, resulting in 70% of the population unable or unwilling to afford private medical insurance. I also read somewhere that less than 15% of the American people actually have a passport that would enable them to travel to other countries.

Let's just stick to EFL here. And if I express a preference for non-grovelling weasels,that's my business too, but you wouldn't like that! Too bad, matey.

It seems to me that some of the FTs who generally experience bad treatment are inexperienced, or lacking qualifications and common sense and lay themselves open to abuse. Quite frankly some issues are minor and can be sorted out by a firm approach. Others are more serious, but then I have never been interested in private language schools, state schools or training centres so I don't put myself in a position where I can be conned.

And you don't care about those who have no choice but to put themselves in those 'vulnerable' situations because they don't have the qualifications not to do so! No problem, don't fudge the issue. You have your 'experience', and I've mine.They needn't be the same,and what you consider minor, I'm not bound to consider the same!

I have had the pleasure of working with 3 black American teachers who did not experience prejudice - why , because they were bloody good teachers!!

That's what you say. You disbelieve me,and I you!End of story.

As for probationary periods no teacher should be afraid of these if they are conducted properly. And if they are not then we should do something about it!!

A big if, and your criteria needn't be accepted by me! Semms like we have a stalemate!