2015 Teachers Study Tour

The Confucius Institute invited 10 participants as part of the 2015 Chinese Language Teachers Study Tour to China during March - April 2015


There is no doubt the importance of Asia, and China in particular, which is growing within the global geopolitical and economic order. China is already Australia's largest trading paqualityrtner and within 20 years, when our students are in the middle of their careers, China's economy is expected to be four times as large as it is currently.

It is imperative our students understand China to fully grasp the opportunities of the future. As Chinese language teachers, you play an important role in facilitating this growth of knowledge; you not only build students' language competency, but also imbue a broader understanding of China, its people and its culture.

The Confucius Institute at La Trobe University would like to support your role to prepare Australia's future leaders. As such, we invite you to join us on our 2015 Confucius Institute Chinese Language Teachers Study Tour from 29 March 2015.

Run in conjunction with our partner Chongqing University, this 10-day study tour offers an opportunity for Australian-based Chinese language teachers to:

  • Refresh their language teaching skills
  • Share resources
  • Observe classes in action
  • Engage in pedagogy-focused workshops
  • Interact with China-based peers from both Chongqing University and local international schools in Chongqing

Dazu Rock CarvingsIn addition, you will have the opportunity to explore the gateway city to China's West, Chongqing; an important administrative municipality spearheading China's efforts to develop its western regions. The tour will incorporate a number of cultural visits including a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dazu Rock Carvings in the outlining region.

Immerse yourself in the local culture, taste the local cuisine which favours the same hot and spicy foods of Sichuan, and experience authentic Chinese hospitality.

Please join us on this unique professional development opportunity.


Costs

Costs for this tour are subsidised by the Confucius Institute, offering a cost-effective option for participants.

Total cost payable to the Confucius Institute at La Trobe University for the program is $440 per person and is inclusive of Chongqing University tuition, (twin share) accommodation, program-related travelling expenses within China, most meals, and a tour leader (a Confucius Institute staff member).

Airfares, visas and personal costs  will be the responsibility of the participants. Note a return airfare from Melbourne-Chongqing will cost around $1,200-1,500.

Note: Tax deductibility - Contact your tax advisor to find out whether your study program expenses are tax deductible.


Eligibility

The tour is open to Australian-based Chinese (Mandarin) language teachers currently teaching in either a primary or secondary school environment.


Register & Pay

Please note that this tour has been completed.

Terms & Conditions

  1. The tour may not go ahead if the minimum number of participants (10) is not reached.
  2. If you withdraw by 2 February 2015, a 10% cancellation fee of $44 will be withheld from your refund, and/or;
  3. If you withdraw after 2 February 2015, a 55% cancellation fee of $242 will be withheld from your refund.
  4. It is your responsibility to purchase return international airfares and to obtain a valid Chinese visa prior to travel.
  5. It is your responsibility to obtain the necessary travel insurance, immunisations and medical checks required prior to travel.

Itinerary

Date Time Action
Sunday 29 March AM Arrive Chongqing, check into hotel
  PM Free time
Monday 30 March 09:00 – 10:00 Opening ceremony
  10:30 – 12:00 Brief introduction to Chongqing University
Walking tour of the Chongqing University History Museum
  14:30 – 17:15 Practical spoken Chinese
Tuesday 31 March 08:30 – 10:30 Chinese teacher training – Phonetics
  11:00 – 12:00 Class observation and review
  14:30 – 16:00 CBD Tour:
Liberation monument
Hongyadong cultural centre
Chaotianmen square
  19:00 – 21:00 River tour
Wednesday 1 April 08:30 – 12:00 Practical spoken Chinese
  14:00 – 15:00 Visit ancient town: Ciqikou
Thursday 2 April 08:30 – 10:30 Chinese teacher training – Characters
  11:00 – 12:00 Class observation and review
  14:00 – 15:30 Chinese teacher training – Vocabulary
  16:00 – 17:00 Class observation and review
Friday 3 April 09:00 – 15:00 Visit international schools in Chongqing
This is where Chinese is actively taught to foreign children
Opportunities to observe classes (including culture classes)
Share experiences with Chinese language teachers
Saturday 4 April 9:00 – 20:00

World Heritage site visit – Dazu Rock Carvings

Sunday 5 April 09:30 – 12:00 Practical spoken Chinese
  PM Free time
Monday 6 April 08:30 – 10:30 Chinese teacher training – Grammar
  11:00 – 12:00 Class observation and review
  14:00 – 15:30 Chinese teacher training – Comprehension
  16:00 – 17:00 Class observation and review
Tuesday 7 April 08:30 – 11:00 Workshop for Australian Teachers group:
Share experiences and resources
To be moderated by Chongqing University's School of International Education
  11:10 – 12:00 Chinese teacher training summary
  14:30 – 15:30 Closing ceremony
Wednesday 8 April AM Depart Chongqing