Hello everyone! The weather is getting nicer and things are busy as usual at the HSK office. We've finally had the time to organize an HSK teacher gathering.
We plan on meeting at Samsung station (green line 2) in between exits 5 and 6, right in front of the entrance to COEX mall at 11:45 AM this Saturday April 3rd. You're all invited and you can bring some friends if you so desire! We'll meet at COEX to grab a bite to eat in the COEX food court. Then we'll head by foot to Bongeunsa (a Buddhist temple) to do a free English guided tour around 1:30 PM.
Bongeunsa is a temple of the Jogye order founded in the year 794. It is truly a site to see as it is nestled in between the modern architecture of Samseong-dong in Gangnam-gu. This mix of old and new is a paradigm of Korea's modern culture intertwined with its traditional customs. Within the confines of Bongeunsa are various temples and places for worship. There are also a couple of places for mediation and taking tea. For more information on Bongeunsa, visit their website.
Come join us this Saturday to see a part of Korea's ancient past and have the opportunity to meet members of the HSK team and other teachers recruited by us. Please RSVP on Facebook, so we have an idea of how many people to expect and to let the tourist center at Bongeunsa know if we'll have a large group! We hope to see you there!
HSK Bongeunsa Tour Facebook event page.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Foreigner Registration
For those of you who are US citizens, when you come to Korea, in most cases, you should already have your E2, F2 or F4 visa prior to arriving. In either case, the US Embassy of Korea offers you the recommended option to register with them. People of other citizenship can also make use of this service with their respective embassies in Korea.
The US Embassy of Seoul highly suggests that you register via the US State Department website. It is by no means mandatory, but it allows them to know that you are an American citizen in Korea whether it's long- or short-term. They suggest this option in case of family emergencies, for example, so that the US Embassy can contact you should your family not be able to do so.
There are a few perks that registering with the embassy online can offer. You can update your information at any time when traveling. Therefore, if you take a trip to Japan, you can visit the website mentioned above to change the foreign country in which you are located, so the American embassy in that country can contact you in case of emergency. You will also receive monthly emailed newsletters for the American expat community in Korea as well as updates on safety and security for Americans abroad. Finally, you can also opt to receive text messages when updates have been made.
It should be noted that your data entered on the US Department of State's website will be kept private from any personnel outside of the embassies, consulates and Department of State. It will be released only with your permission. Also, if you have already registered before July 2004, it is advised to re-register.
The US Embassy of Seoul highly suggests that you register via the US State Department website. It is by no means mandatory, but it allows them to know that you are an American citizen in Korea whether it's long- or short-term. They suggest this option in case of family emergencies, for example, so that the US Embassy can contact you should your family not be able to do so.
There are a few perks that registering with the embassy online can offer. You can update your information at any time when traveling. Therefore, if you take a trip to Japan, you can visit the website mentioned above to change the foreign country in which you are located, so the American embassy in that country can contact you in case of emergency. You will also receive monthly emailed newsletters for the American expat community in Korea as well as updates on safety and security for Americans abroad. Finally, you can also opt to receive text messages when updates have been made.
It should be noted that your data entered on the US Department of State's website will be kept private from any personnel outside of the embassies, consulates and Department of State. It will be released only with your permission. Also, if you have already registered before July 2004, it is advised to re-register.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Yellow Dust
South Korea is a small nation with a very high population density. There are many people in a relatively small space using energy at what has become an alarming rate. In addition, emissions regulations may be a bit different in Korea than in your home country. Some say that the pollution, especially in the Seoul area, is unbearable. Others don't even make note of it. Moves toward a greener Korea have been taken. Plans for more fuel efficient and environment friendly buses (in the thousands) have been made. The move away from diesel fuel is slow, but growing.
Whether or not pollution in Korea poses a major health issue can vary from person to person. However, there is one factor that most foreigners in Korea (and Koreans alike) despise and this causes many to run for cover or go to more extreme measures to protect themselves--Yellow Dust.
Most Koreans will tell you that Yellow Dust comes from China and China is to blame for this cough inducing storm. While that's partially true, Yellow Dust originates from the deserts of China, Mongolia and Kazakhstan. The winds that blow across these deserts in the springtime carry the dust particles to East Asia (i.e. South Korea and Japan.) Despite attempts at reforestation, the problem has yet to lessen.
You may ask yourself "What harm could it possibly do? It's just dust!" Well, the dust itself doesn't impose any real threats besides creating an icky layer of dirt on an open window sill. However, the particles that the dust mingles with while in transport are the problem. Things such as sulfur (from acid rain), heavy metals (no relation to Black Sabbath), and bacteria are picked up in the dust storm and make their way to Korea. These extra particles are what make Yellow Dust a nuisance and fear for many Koreans. During this season, you'll see handfuls of people wearing surgical masks and a not so pleasant yellow haze in the sky that isn't coming from the sun.
Yellow Dust isn't new to the Korean peninsula. Reports and records of this yellow haze date back to the Silla dynasty in 174 AD. Yellow Dust (also known as Asian Dust) has been around for quite a while and it doesn't look like it's going anywhere anytime soon. T.T
Whether or not pollution in Korea poses a major health issue can vary from person to person. However, there is one factor that most foreigners in Korea (and Koreans alike) despise and this causes many to run for cover or go to more extreme measures to protect themselves--Yellow Dust.
Most Koreans will tell you that Yellow Dust comes from China and China is to blame for this cough inducing storm. While that's partially true, Yellow Dust originates from the deserts of China, Mongolia and Kazakhstan. The winds that blow across these deserts in the springtime carry the dust particles to East Asia (i.e. South Korea and Japan.) Despite attempts at reforestation, the problem has yet to lessen.
You may ask yourself "What harm could it possibly do? It's just dust!" Well, the dust itself doesn't impose any real threats besides creating an icky layer of dirt on an open window sill. However, the particles that the dust mingles with while in transport are the problem. Things such as sulfur (from acid rain), heavy metals (no relation to Black Sabbath), and bacteria are picked up in the dust storm and make their way to Korea. These extra particles are what make Yellow Dust a nuisance and fear for many Koreans. During this season, you'll see handfuls of people wearing surgical masks and a not so pleasant yellow haze in the sky that isn't coming from the sun.
Yellow Dust isn't new to the Korean peninsula. Reports and records of this yellow haze date back to the Silla dynasty in 174 AD. Yellow Dust (also known as Asian Dust) has been around for quite a while and it doesn't look like it's going anywhere anytime soon. T.T
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Starting a new job...
For some of you, this may be your first full-time job. For others, it may be your first time at a hagwon or a public school. The rest of you are seasoned veterans and don't need the advice and tips given in this blog entry. ^^ Those of you who can classify yourselves in the first two categories may find the contents of this entry useful before preparing to enter into your new work environment.
Hagwon
For those of you who are employed with a hagwon, I'm sure you have heard many horror stories and not very many success stories. Unfortunately, the majority of the stories out there, are ones of corrupt hagwon directors, poor management, etc. These situations probably seem like the majority because they're the ones you read the most about. I'm here to tell you that not every hagwon experience is nightmarish.
When beginning to work in a hagwon, an open-mind is essential. (Actually, this is essential when entering into any work place.) Remember that a hagwon is a business whose service is education and its clients are the parents of the students that attend there. With this being said, many hagwon directors often feel pressure from their "clients" to cater to what they believe is best for their children, the students. You may also experience the effects of this pressure from your direct superior. If asked to do something, you should do it. However, if you feel that the request is immoral or even illegal, then it is best to hold your ground. You do have rights in Korea as a tax-paying temporary resident here. The command may not seem practical or logical, but if the director feels it is in the best interest of his/her clients and their children, then he/she will expect you to do what is asked of you.
In a hagwon, you may also find that the quantity of the material covered per class is quite large. Initially, you may also struggle to keep up with the rigorous pace that some hagwons demand of their students and employees. If this is the case, be sure to ask your co-workers for advice in lieu of complaining that it's too much work in too little time. There are also many resources on the Internet for advice on curriculum management. Most hagwons will expect you to follow the curriculum if provided to you.
Finally, many hagwon place a great emphasis on "results." Results could mean anything from a perfect score on a test or little to no mistakes on their homework. You might feel that these "results" don't mean anything, but many Korean parents feel that marks in their child's textbooks and homework means that the teacher is actively trying to improve their child's ability in the English language.
Public schools
In public schools parents can also sometimes play a vital role in what the principal expects of his/her teachers as far as classroom methods and discipline go. While public schools tend to be a bit more laid back than hagwon in this regard, you still may come across the occasional disgruntled and irrational parent from time to time. If you feel that a request or complaint is seriously unreasonable, then you might want to bring that up with your co-teacher or other English-speaking co-workers. The best resources for you concerning things that are happening at your school about which you have questions, are your colleagues!
I've heard from many teachers that they sometimes struggle with the small quantity of material to cover during each class period. This is where hagwon and public schools can sometimes differ. In a public school classroom, you may find yourself needing to come up with supplementary activities to fill the class time and reinforce ideas taught during that particular class session. You can find a few ideas on our blog. (i.e. Baseball or various lesson plan templates) However, there are thousands of resources on the Internet and your co-teacher(s) may also even have some ideas that could help you.
All in all, there are some key differences between hagwon and public school classrooms. There are also some things that don't vary and you should make an effort to do in both sectors. First, dress for success. In general, teachers' dress codes are business casual. I always advise teachers to dress in this fashion for the first few weeks or so, even if you see your co-workers dressing a bit more casually. By setting a high standard for yourself, you are more likely to make a good first impression. After 3-4 weeks, you might be able to start thinking about dressing more casually as your co-workers might do. Next, you should also try to "make nice" with you co-workers, especially because you may find yourself needing their help at any given point during your time at your school. Regardless of your initial impression of them, it's always a good idea to try your hardest to get along with them. Finally, if you ever have questions or need help, you should ALWAYS ask someone from your school first. HandS Korea is more than happy to help you in any way we can, but based on our experience, the best remedy to a problem or misunderstanding is to talk to a co-worker or supervisor first! After you've tried every way you can imagine to resolve the issue, then it's a good time to talk to us.
There's a lot more to success at your school than the things mentioned in this entry, so feel free to ask us if you have questions! Best of luck to you at your new job!
Hagwon
For those of you who are employed with a hagwon, I'm sure you have heard many horror stories and not very many success stories. Unfortunately, the majority of the stories out there, are ones of corrupt hagwon directors, poor management, etc. These situations probably seem like the majority because they're the ones you read the most about. I'm here to tell you that not every hagwon experience is nightmarish.
When beginning to work in a hagwon, an open-mind is essential. (Actually, this is essential when entering into any work place.) Remember that a hagwon is a business whose service is education and its clients are the parents of the students that attend there. With this being said, many hagwon directors often feel pressure from their "clients" to cater to what they believe is best for their children, the students. You may also experience the effects of this pressure from your direct superior. If asked to do something, you should do it. However, if you feel that the request is immoral or even illegal, then it is best to hold your ground. You do have rights in Korea as a tax-paying temporary resident here. The command may not seem practical or logical, but if the director feels it is in the best interest of his/her clients and their children, then he/she will expect you to do what is asked of you.
In a hagwon, you may also find that the quantity of the material covered per class is quite large. Initially, you may also struggle to keep up with the rigorous pace that some hagwons demand of their students and employees. If this is the case, be sure to ask your co-workers for advice in lieu of complaining that it's too much work in too little time. There are also many resources on the Internet for advice on curriculum management. Most hagwons will expect you to follow the curriculum if provided to you.
Finally, many hagwon place a great emphasis on "results." Results could mean anything from a perfect score on a test or little to no mistakes on their homework. You might feel that these "results" don't mean anything, but many Korean parents feel that marks in their child's textbooks and homework means that the teacher is actively trying to improve their child's ability in the English language.
Public schools
In public schools parents can also sometimes play a vital role in what the principal expects of his/her teachers as far as classroom methods and discipline go. While public schools tend to be a bit more laid back than hagwon in this regard, you still may come across the occasional disgruntled and irrational parent from time to time. If you feel that a request or complaint is seriously unreasonable, then you might want to bring that up with your co-teacher or other English-speaking co-workers. The best resources for you concerning things that are happening at your school about which you have questions, are your colleagues!
I've heard from many teachers that they sometimes struggle with the small quantity of material to cover during each class period. This is where hagwon and public schools can sometimes differ. In a public school classroom, you may find yourself needing to come up with supplementary activities to fill the class time and reinforce ideas taught during that particular class session. You can find a few ideas on our blog. (i.e. Baseball or various lesson plan templates) However, there are thousands of resources on the Internet and your co-teacher(s) may also even have some ideas that could help you.
All in all, there are some key differences between hagwon and public school classrooms. There are also some things that don't vary and you should make an effort to do in both sectors. First, dress for success. In general, teachers' dress codes are business casual. I always advise teachers to dress in this fashion for the first few weeks or so, even if you see your co-workers dressing a bit more casually. By setting a high standard for yourself, you are more likely to make a good first impression. After 3-4 weeks, you might be able to start thinking about dressing more casually as your co-workers might do. Next, you should also try to "make nice" with you co-workers, especially because you may find yourself needing their help at any given point during your time at your school. Regardless of your initial impression of them, it's always a good idea to try your hardest to get along with them. Finally, if you ever have questions or need help, you should ALWAYS ask someone from your school first. HandS Korea is more than happy to help you in any way we can, but based on our experience, the best remedy to a problem or misunderstanding is to talk to a co-worker or supervisor first! After you've tried every way you can imagine to resolve the issue, then it's a good time to talk to us.
There's a lot more to success at your school than the things mentioned in this entry, so feel free to ask us if you have questions! Best of luck to you at your new job!
Monday, March 1, 2010
Korean Independence Movement Day
We all love a holiday, especially if it means getting one of those rare days off from work! However, often in Korea, we don't know the reason why we get that much needed day of R & R. Bigger and popular holidays like Chuseok and Buddha's Birthday are more well-known, but the lesser known and not as mainstream holidays also hold great significance to some Koreans.
Today is March 1st and it is celebrated as the Independence Movement Day each year. As developed as Korea is, it's hard to believe that just less than 100 years ago Koreans fought for their independence as a nation. The cries for independence started at this time stemmed from the Japanese colonial rule when Koreans were seeking refuge from a tyrannical rule in their own country. This battle was not without loss as thousands of Koreans gave their lives trying to secure their country's place in the free world.
During Japan's colonization of Korea, Korean culture was highly suppressed and the American President Wilson's words at the Paris Peace Conference drove Korean students in Japan to create a document calling for the independence of Korea from its colonizer. As Koreans became more and more frustrated with the deplorable situation in their own homes, the situation became more and more agitated. Complaints and demands were made by Korean citizens against the Japanese rulers, demonstrations became more common. As mentioned earlier, many of these demonstrations for the stop of destruction of the Korean culture resulted in bloodshed.
This movement was an eventual incendiary for the Japanese rule in Korea. It ultimately led to the Provisional government of the Republic of Korea in Shanghai. This government abroad existed during a tumultuous time and Japan's rule came to an end approximately at the tail end of the World War 2, but this was still not the end of troubled times for Korea...
Still today, there are some Koreans alive that remember the travesties committed by Japanese colonials and there are also some Koreans who hold a serious disdain for the Japanese based on their prior horrendous experiences. However, more and more Koreans are becoming more tolerant of the fact that this was history and from history there are many lessons to be learned.
Today is March 1st and it is celebrated as the Independence Movement Day each year. As developed as Korea is, it's hard to believe that just less than 100 years ago Koreans fought for their independence as a nation. The cries for independence started at this time stemmed from the Japanese colonial rule when Koreans were seeking refuge from a tyrannical rule in their own country. This battle was not without loss as thousands of Koreans gave their lives trying to secure their country's place in the free world.
During Japan's colonization of Korea, Korean culture was highly suppressed and the American President Wilson's words at the Paris Peace Conference drove Korean students in Japan to create a document calling for the independence of Korea from its colonizer. As Koreans became more and more frustrated with the deplorable situation in their own homes, the situation became more and more agitated. Complaints and demands were made by Korean citizens against the Japanese rulers, demonstrations became more common. As mentioned earlier, many of these demonstrations for the stop of destruction of the Korean culture resulted in bloodshed.
This movement was an eventual incendiary for the Japanese rule in Korea. It ultimately led to the Provisional government of the Republic of Korea in Shanghai. This government abroad existed during a tumultuous time and Japan's rule came to an end approximately at the tail end of the World War 2, but this was still not the end of troubled times for Korea...
Still today, there are some Koreans alive that remember the travesties committed by Japanese colonials and there are also some Koreans who hold a serious disdain for the Japanese based on their prior horrendous experiences. However, more and more Koreans are becoming more tolerant of the fact that this was history and from history there are many lessons to be learned.
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