China: Then and Now Orientation Notebook
June 2011 Professional Development Program for Educators
Table Of
Images used in this publication come from Microsoft Office’s images as well as from the Center’s staff.
Contents Thank You to Our Sponsors...4 Participant List...5 The Center for International Understanding...6 Teacher Study Abroad Programs...7 Program Purpose, Goals, and Phases...8 Itinerary...9 Flight Schedule...10 Emergency Contact Information...11 Why China?...12 Map of China...13 Reflection Tools...14 Responsible Photography...15 Tips for Travel...16 Safety and Health Tips...19 Packing Checklist...22 Packing Tips...23 Participant Health Insurance Abroad...24 China Web Resources...26 China Video and Book Resources...28
Thank You! The Center for International Understanding’s 2011 Professional Development Program to China is made possible with generous support from the following sponsors: Asian Pacific Studies Institute – Duke University The Beattie Foundation The Borchardt Fund of the Triangle Community Foundation Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries
Cisco Confucius Institute – NC State University Hanban Carolyn Hunt Teacher Award Fund Lenovo The James G. K. McClure Fund for Education and Development Nelson McDaniel Global Teacher Award Fund The Dan Royster Memorial Award Fund
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The Center for International Understanding
China: Then and Now
Participant List Steve Bias, Science Teacher, Andrews Middle School
Clark Norman, Social Studies Teacher, Gravelly Middle School
Elizabeth Plotkin, Kindergarten Teacher, Shena Dowdy,Math Teacher, East Millbrook Fuller GT Magnet Elementary School Magnet Middle School Alison Edwards, Social Studies Teacher, Brogden Middle School
Lara Randby, 4th-5th Grade Teacher, Glenwood Elementary School
Jennifer Facciolini, Social Studies Teacher, Midway High School
Darren Segool, Social Studies Teacher, Holly Grove Middle School
Freda Sherman, Social Studies Teacher, Stephanie Fiedler, Media Coordinator, Mills Hickory Ridge Middle School Park Elementary School Shannon Fields, 5th Grade Teacher, Isaac Dickson Elementary School
Dwayne Squires, 7th-8th Grade Teacher, Canton Middle School
Caroline Stillwell Godwin, 5th Grade Teacher, A. H. Bangert Elementary School
Dawn R. Streets, Social Studies Teacher, Margaret B. Pollard Middle School
Andi Green, 1st Grade Teacher, Stocks Elementary School
Melissa Stout, Language Arts Teacher, West McDowell Jr. High School
Meredith Henderson, Senior Director of Programs, Center for International Understanding
Becca West, Science Teacher, Martin Middle School
Katie Jiang, K-1 Teacher, Glenwood Elementary School Ashley Johnston, Pre-Algebra Teacher, East Rutherford Middle School
Loretta Wilson, History Teacher, CD Owen Middle School Christine Woolford, 2nd Grade Teacher, Efland Cheeks Elementary School
Emily Jolley, Social Studies Teacher, Knightdale High School
Alternates:
Steve Jones, Social Studies Teacher, City of Medicine Academy
Suzanne Hosch (Beattie), 9-12 Grade Inclusion Specialist, Buncombe Early College
Kellee Lewis, China Programs Administrative Assistant, Center for International Understanding
Zenobia Rahman (Borchardt), Language Arts/Social Studies Teacher, Mt. Vernon Middle School
Joseph Morrill, 7th-8th Grade Teacher, Yancey County Learning Academy
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The Center for International Understanding
China: Then and Now
Learning from the World, Serving North Carolina The Center for International Understanding is an educational organization promoting global competence and awareness among current and future leaders in North Carolina. Founded in 1979, the Center is working to make North Carolina one of the most globally engaged states in the nation. As globalization plays an ever-increasing role in the economy of North Carolina, our current and future leaders need to be globally competent and aware in order to succeed in a changing world. Through a series of international leadership programs focused on issues vital to North Carolina’s economy and work in K-12 schools, the Center seeks to prepare current and future leaders to engage with the world. The Center for International Understanding, along with 17 campuses and other educational organizations, is part of the University of North Carolina.
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China: Then and Now
TeacherStudy AbroadPrograms
Teachers Bring the World to N.C. Classrooms Since 1995, the Center for International Understanding has provided teacher study abroad programs to help educators bring the world to North Carolina classrooms. Teachers from all grade levels and all subject areas bring a global perspective to the classroom and ignite an interest in global cooperation and competition.
Through Our International Professional Development Opportunities: •
More than 370 K-12 teachers and administrators have studied abroad •
•
7
12 different countries have been studied
More than 300 original global lesson plans have been implemented
The Center for International Understanding
China: Then and Now
Program Purpose The China: Then and Now Professional Development Program for Educators will focus on China and its role in technological innovation past and present. The Center believes that sending teachers to China is crucial as teachers can use their first-hand experiences in China to increase student understanding of this important region of the world. Focusing on technology is critical as worldwide technological innovation is moving so fast that today’s teachers are preparing their students for jobs that do not even exist yet. Today's students are expected to enter the workplace already fully literate in technology, with strong communication and collaboration skills that will help them succeed in a connected and global environment. In order to properly prepare students for careers utilizing these yet to be developed technologies, teachers must be knowledgeable about today’s cutting edge innovations and be exposed to glimpses of what the future may hold. The Center believes that China is the perfect place to gain an appreciation for future and past technologies as outlined in more detail on page 12
Program Goals • To explore the historical, political, and socio-cultural dimensions of technological innovation in past and present-day China • To understand the current state of communications and clean energy technologies in China today • To use technology to collaborate with other program participants on ways to implement global perspectives and technology into the classroom
Program Phases • • • • •
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Orientation Workshop – May 5-6, 2011 Program in China – June 16-26, 2011 Follow-Up Workshop – August/September 2011 Online Check-In Workshop – November 2011 Final Evaluation Survey – June 2012
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China: Then and Now
Itinerary (June 16-26, 2011) Thursday, June 16
Depart North Carolina for Beijing, China.
Friday, June 17
Arrive in Beijing. Check into hotel.
Saturday, June 18
Cultural and historic site visits (such as the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Beijing Museum of Science and Technology)
Sunday, June 19
Cultural and historic site visits (such as the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Beijing Museum of Science and Technology)
Monday, June 20
Morning company visits (such as SAS and Lenovo). Afternoon university visit (Tsinghua University) to discuss clean energy
Tuesday, June 21
Visit to ENN Energy (a partner of Duke Energy in smart grid technology) Debriefing session.
Wednesday, June 22
Morning departure for Shanghai Afternoon cultural visits in Shanghai (Shanghai Museum, Yu Yuan)
Thursday, June 23
Morning company visits (such as Cisco, Huawei, IBM) Afternoon school or university visits (if possible)
Friday, June 24
Site visits regarding alternative energy in Wuxi
Saturday, June 25 Visit to Yangshan Port
Sunday June 26
Morning cultural visits Final debriefing session Depart Shanghai for NC
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Departure & Return Flight Schedule DEPARTURE - RALEIGH DATE
AIRLINE FLT.# FROM
TO
DEPART ARRIVAL
6/16/11 American 4262 Raleigh
Chicago
2:00PM
6/16/11 American 187 Chicago
Beijing
9:05PM
3:15PM 11:30PM (6/17/11)
DEPARTURE - CHARLOTTE DATE
AIRLINE
FLT.#FROM
TO
DEPART ARRIVAL
6/16/11 American 4192 Charlotte Chicago
1:55PM
3:10PM
6/16/11 American
9:05PM
11:30PM (6/17/11)
187 Chicago
Beijing
RETURN - RALEIGH DATE
AIRLINE FLT.# FROM
6/26/11 American
TO
288 Shanghai Chicago
6/26/11 American 4241 Chicago
Raleigh
DEPART ARRIVAL 4:10PM
5:00PM
8:45PM
11:40PM
RETURN - CHARLOTTE DATE
AIRLINE FLT.# FROM
6/26/11 American
TO
4:10PM
5:00PM
6/26/11 American 4111 Chicago Charlotte 8:55PM
11:45PM
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288 Shanghai Chicago
DEPART ARRIVAL
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China: Then and Now
EmergencyContactInformation Program Coordinator in China:
Ajay Rivers (Yingshan JIANG) US Division Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries Tel: 011 86-10-6559-4106 Fax: 011 86-10-6513-1016 Email (emergency use only): ysriver@hotmail.com
Blackberry for Meredith Henderson, Senior Director of Programs is 919-208-9438.
Families may also contact:
Melissa Edwards Smith, Director, Global Leader Programs The Center for International Understanding 919-420-1360, ext 204 (work) 919-833-7317 (home) or 919-606-0608 (cell)
Accomodations: June 17-22
Jianguo Garden Hotel No 17Jianguomennei Avenue Beijing 100005 China Tel: 011 86 10 6528 6666 Fax: 011 86 10 6522 5261 http://www.jianguogardenhotel.com/en/reservation.html
June 22-26
The Bund Hotel 525 Guangdong Rd Shanghai, 200001 China Tel: 011 86 21 6352 2000 Fax: 011 86 21 6352 2777 http://www.thebundhotel.com/en/index/index.asp
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China: Then and Now
Why China?
Economy
Education
• China is North Carolina’s fastest growing trade partner: Exports to China increased 431% between 2002 and 2008 (WISER, from U.S. Census Bureau, Foreign Trade Division, 2008)
• Nearly one-third of the world’s people, 31%, speak Mandarin (Chinese) and 15% speak English. A student who speaks both languages will greatly increase his/ her career potential.
• China purchased $271 million in agricultural products from North Carolina in 2008, accounting for nearly 10% of the state’s agricultural exports (N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 2008)
• Students who study foreign languages have been shown to perform better in subjects like science and math (Drs. Collier and Thomas, George Mason University)
• Employers say they want workers who can speak more than one language and who know how • Six China-owned firms to be effective members of multiare operating in North Carolina, providing jobs to North Carolinians cultural teams (Committee for (N.C Department of Commerce) Economic Development, 2006)
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Technology
• Ancient China is credited with creating four great inventions: paper, the compass, gunpowder, and printing. • Today, China is the world’s top manufacturer of solar panels and wind turbines. • China invested $54.4 billion in green technology in 2010. • Innovative technology companies such as Cisco, SAS, Lenovo, Duke Energy, and Cree all have a presence in China.
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China: Then and Now
MapofChina
Beijing
*
Wuxi
**
Shanghai
Beijing, Shanghai, and Wuxi are the three cities that we will be visiting during our time in China. Click on each city’s name to go to the Chinese government’s official webpage for that city. To view a more detailed map of China, click HERE
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ReflectionTools
Upon Your Return:
It is important to reread and review your journal When we participate in a global study program, we often take the after your return home. time to learn about the culture we will be visiting. However, it is also Continue to reflect on some important to look at ourselves and what we bring to the experience. of your experiences in One of the key players in the experience is you. It is your eyes that will China and their effect on see, your ears that will hear, and your personal experiences and history your life in North Carolina. that will help you to interpret what you see and hear. Some additional questions that may be helpful are: Although we will be meeting in large group debriefing sessions during the course of the program in China, a journal is a great tool to help you • What did the reflect on your experience on a day-to-day basis as well as upon your experience of traveling to return home. China with this global study program mean to you?
Before You Go: It is recommended that you begin your journal before leaving the country. Reflect on your feelings about traveling to China, your reasons for joining this study program, your expectations, and on questions you hope to have answered. Below are some questions to help you get started: • Why are you taking this journey? • What are you anticipating most about the program in China? • What are you concerned or anxious about? • What are your assumptions about China, the Chinese, and Chinese education? How do you expect the country and the people you meet to look, sound, act, etc?
In China: While we are in China, you can use your journal to record your journey. Some things to think about are: •
Notes from presentations
•
Specific quotes
• Sounds, smells, sights, etc. that you are experiencing •
Questions
• Experiences outside the formal program agenda •
Dreams
•
Stories, poems, sketches
• Use your journal to collect mementos, such as pictures, postcards, etc., to share with students and faculty
• Record commitments or • What are the key questions intentions to act when you return you would like to have answered in home China?
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• What are some of the main ideas that you would like to convey to your family, friends and colleagues about China now that you have been there? • How will this experience impact your professional practice? • What are some initial ideas that you have for recommendations for North Carolina policy and/ or programs based on your experiences? • What is the most important learning you derived from this experience? Bring your journal with you to the follow-up workshop. You may find that you want to refer to it as you begin the next stage of your action-planning.
China: Then and Now
Responsible Photography Most participants on a travel seminar come with camera in hand, eager to photograph their experience for their own memories and to share with friends and family. Photos are a great way to document a travel seminar, but a camera can be a tricky tool to use well. How you use your camera reflects your level of respect for the local people and your long-term commitment to mutual understanding and responsible travel.
Guidelines for Taking Photos on a Travel Seminar: •
Ask Permission before you
take a photo, even if it is just a smile and a nod toward your camera. • Avoid Telephoto Lenses: It is best to use them only when shooting landscapes, animals or during performances or festivals, when it is difficult to get close to people. Even then try to seek your subject out afterward to tell them you’ve taken a photo and explain who you are. • Send copies: If possible, offer to send a copy if it turns out well and make sure you follow up. • Pay Attention to Your Prejudices: Ask yourself why you feel compelled to take a photo. Ask yourself how you would feel if the situation were reversed: would you feel comfortable having your photo taken by this person in these circumstances?
• Make Connections: On your travel seminar, you will have the opportunity to meet and talk with many local people. Take pictures of the friends that you make instead of trying to grab images from strangers on the street. • Take pictures of normal things. Pictures of your room, meals, stores, etc. will help you answer some of the basic questions like “what did you eat?” • Your trip leaders, resource people and fellow participants all form an important part of your experience. Photos of them will help trigger memories and capture the flavor of visits.
• Get closer and pay attention to details: The best pictures are ones where the subject is clear and where details help to tell the story. Getting closer (easier when the subject is not a person), can vastly improve your photo. Note: these guidelines were modified from an article by Chris Welch, Tips for Making Better Travel Photos, found in the Minneapolis StarTribune, Sunday July 16, 2000, page G9. 15
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China: Then and Now
Check in: Plan to
be in the airport at least 2 hours early to provide adequate time for check in for international flight and security. You may need to arrive even earlier in case parking is a problem.
TipsforTravel
Late arrivals: If for any reason you miss your flight in the departure or connecting city, it will be your responsibility to arrange with the airline to catch the next available flight and to arrange transportation to and from the Beijing airport to the hotel. As soon as your alternate plans are known, please call the Emergency Contact Person for the program about your new arrival plans so that they can leave word for group leaders at the hotel about when to expect you. Electric Current: The
normal electric current in China is 220 volts, 50 AC cycles. Bring along transformers and converters for electrical appliances. Chinese hotels typically have hairdryers installed.
Tips: The program fee includes tips for bus drivers and guides. Tipping is not expected in restaurants. You will be responsible for tips for luggage
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handling, which is typically 1015 yuan per bag or $1 per bag.
Meals: Breakfasts are always included at the hotel. Most hotels will offer a wide variety of breakfast foods – both Chinese and American. Most other meals are included in the program fee. Aside from breakfast, most meals will be Chinese food usually served family style with everyone taking food from a lazy Susan as it passes. For those individuals who have informed program sponsors of dietary restrictions, those have been conveyed to the program coordinators. However, you should ask the servers in every restaurant to be sure that you are not served anything which would cause an allergic reaction. We have given you a copy of your dietary restrictions written in Chinese. Do not eat unwashed raw or unpeeled vegetables or fruits.
this insurance is for health only. It does not include missed flight, life, or other insurance coverage. Thus you may want to buy separate trip cancellation insurance and life insurance. Many program expenses are non-refundable after specified dates.
Phones: When calling
the US from China, dial 00+1+phone number. For AT&T Direct service with an English speaking operator dial 10811 in Shanghai or 108888 in Beijing. When calling China from the US, dial 011 86-city code-number. The city code for Shanghai is 021, for Beijing is 010 and for Wuxi is 0510. (Omit the “0� in front of the city codes when calling from the US.) Some cell phone carriers have plans for calling from China. Check with your provider for more information about this. Be aware that even if your provider says that your phone will work in China, it may not.
Insurance: The program
fee provides health insurance coverage from June 16-26, 2011 while outside the US. You will receive an insurance brochure, card, and claim form at orientation. Please note
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China: Then and Now
Time Difference: China is 12 hours later
than North Carolina. All of China runs on Beijing time!
Money Matters: Chinese currency is called Yuan or, more commonly, Renminbi (RMB), with denominations of the yuan, jia, and fen. These bear a relationship to each other somewhat like the US dollar, dime, and penny. RMB is not traded on international markets and only can be officially purchased or exchanged in China. Foreign currency (cash or traveler’s checks) may be exchanged for Chinese currency at licensed exchange facilities of the Bank of China and other authorized banks. Money exchange facilities are available at major airports, hotels, and department stores. Most if not all our hotels should be able to exchange US dollars. Hotels usually give the official rate but some add a small commission. A passport is required for all currency exchanges. Save your currency exchange rates; they are required to exchange RMB back into U.S currency, upon departure. The current exchange rate is about 1 USD = 6.55 RMB. Major brands of traveler’s checks are accepted at exchange facilities and cash advances against a credit card can be arranged through exchange facilities (a service charge is usually added). Traveler’s checks usually comand a better exchange rate (0.75%) than cash or credit card (3-4%). For convenience, carry some traveler’s checks in $20 denominations. Be sure to make a list of your check numbers and keep the purchase invoice of your traveler’s checks in a safe place separate from your wallet and passport. Consult with your bank before departing the US to be sure that your brand of check or credit card will be accepted. Major credit and debit cards (American Express, MasterCard, and Visa) are accepted by most major hotels and in many well-known restaurants. American currency is occasionally accepted at some tourist sites (but not in smaller cities).
Shanghai,and Wuxi from which to withdraw money. However, ATMs are not as prevalent as they are in the US and withdrawals usually are limited to 2,000 Yuan per day. In Beijing, some ATMs in local banks may not accept international ATM cards. The ATMs at the airport have a good track record--try withdrawing some money before you leave the Beijing Airport. You might want to take some small bills, which will be useful when shopping with the local peddlers and merchants and for personal tipping. However, be advised that Chinese people may be wary of accepting dirty or wrinkled US bills fearing it is counterfeit. Be sure to record your account numbers (and customer service telephone numbers) in case you lose your credit cards. Make major purchases by credit card. You will get a good exchange rate, the protection of the card’s charge-back provisions, and often an extra guarantee on your purchase. It is a good idea to let your credit card companies know in advance of your dates of travel. Otherwise credit authorization may be declined.
Customs: On arrival, each traveler must complete a health declaration form. Importation of fresh fruits and cold cuts is forbidden. Free entry is allowed for personal effects, including two bottles of alcoholic beverages and 400 cigarettes. Cameras must be declared when arriving in China. It is suggested that you record the serial numbers of all cameras and lenses and keep this with your passport. There are no restrictions on the amount of foreign currency brought in but you should declare cash over $5000 US. On departure any antiques that have been purchased must carry the red lacquer seal of an official antique shop. Keep receipts for purchases to use with US customs upon re-entry. See Know Before You Go for US Customs limits.
There are many ATMs throughout Beijing, 17
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China: Then and Now
Film: Although American and Japanese
film are available in China, you may not always find the size or speed you want, and the price is usually higher than in the US. Note: X- rays from airport scanners don’t affect digital camera images or film that has been processed, i.e. film from which you have received prints, slides, Kodak Photo CD discs, or Kodak Picture CD discs. X-ray equipment used to inspect carry-on baggage uses a very low level of x-radiation that will not cause noticeable damage to your film. However, baggage that is checked (loaded on the planes as cargo) sometimes goes through equipment with higher energy x-rays. New baggage scanning equipment can jeopardize your film. Therefore take these precautions when traveling with unprocessed film: • Don’t place single-use cameras or unprocessed film in any luggage or baggage that will be checked. This includes cameras that still have film in them. • If an attendant or security personnel informs you that your carry-on baggage must be stowed with the checked luggage or go through a second scan, you should remove your unprocessed film.
lead’s thickness, and the film speed. If you use a lead bag, check with the manufacturer for the effectiveness of their products with airport X-ray devices. A lead bag on the scanner screen may trigger the inspection process. In a typical airport surveillance situation, the baggage may be pulled aside for additional inspection.
Safety/Security: Always carry the hotel card with the name written in Chinese and the program itinerary with you. The former will assist taxi drivers and others in getting you to the right place and the latter will insure that you know how to catch up with the group if you should become separated from it. Travelers’ checks, debit and credit cards should be kept with you at all times and not left in the hotel, even if in a locked suitcase. The same applies to airline tickets, passports, and other valuables. It is wise to keep a copy of your passport in a secure place in your luggage. Our hotels will probably have safe deposit boxes either in the rooms or at the reception area. Keep the number, date and place of issuance of your passport and travelers checks separate from the documents. It is recommended that you leave good jewelry at home.
• Have your exposed film processed locally before passing through airport security on your return trip. • If you’re going to be traveling through multiple X-ray examination (more than 5 times), request a hand search of your carry-on baggage. FAA regulations in the US allow for a hand search of photographic film and equipment if requested. However, non-US airports may not honor this request. • If you’re asked to step aside for a more thorough search of your carry-on baggage, you should be advised that film could be harmed and you should take it out of your luggage. Lead-lined bags, available from photo retailers, will weaken the x-radiation on film and reduce potential damage. However, the effectiveness of any particular lead bag depends on the intensity and electric potential of the X-ray generator, the 18
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Safetyand HealthTips The Center can’t guarantee your safety while traveling but the staff is very conscious of participant safety in planning and during the exchange. Among the many precautions program planners take are the following: • Checking periodically with the international counterpart planning the program on local safety issues • Monitoring State Department advisories and warnings • Contacting State Department Country Desk or US Consulate or Embassy in country when conditions seem questionable •
Providing you with Emergency Contact Information
• Registering your group at the nearest US Consulate or Embassy with a list of participants and the group itinerary
Although there are certain inherent risks in international travel, there are things that you can do to help insure your own safety and that of the group when traveling abroad: • The State Department publication, A Safe Trip Abroad contains some valuable suggestions. In addition, the Center recommends the following actions by participants found on the following pages.
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BEHAVIOR
TRAVEL AND GETTING AROUND
• Avoid public places where U.S. Americans are known to congregate, for example, Hard Rock Café, American Express offices, etc. • Don’t draw attention to yourself or the group by talking loudly in public. U.S. Americans in their enthusiasm for their new experiences can seem unintentionally obnoxious to others. • If you become aware of a dangerous situation or a possible health hazard, contact the group leader immediately. • Respect the customs and obey the laws of the host country. • Be on your best behavior. For example, avoid arguments over a restaurant tab, which would call attention to you. •
Watch out for each other!
• Be careful who and what you photograph. Always ask permission before taking pictures. • Beware of pickpockets. Carry purses securely tucked under your arm. Carry valuables such as passports and tickets in an internal pocket or under your clothing or leave them in the hotel lock box. • Be alert to your surroundings and those around you. • Keep away from political and other demonstrations.
• Avoid unregulated modes of transportation. • Carry the Emergency Contact List and the itinerary with you at all times. Also have your hotel or host address written out in the host language for easy reference by host nationals, taxi drivers, etc. It helps to carry a hotel business card or brochure as well. • Stay with the group. If you must leave the group, inform the leader or a group member of your whereabouts. Your group might want to develop a buddy system to help insure the safety of all. • Be alert in airports. Watch and report any unattended luggage. Don’t leave yours unattended! Don’t agree to watch a stranger’s bag. • Make copies of the picture page of your passport and any other important documents you carry with you (i.e., visas, green card). Give a copy to the Center, leave a copy at home and carry a copy with you. • Don’t go anywhere with a stranger, no matter how lovely they may seem. • Travel light. It will simplify check in at airports but it will also make you more mobile in the event that you have to move quickly in an emergency. •
Walk only in well-lighted, populated areas.
• Travel with a companion whenever possible. Familiarize yourself with the public transportation system to avoid appearing like a vulnerable tourist. Travel in daylight hours if you must travel alone.
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HEALTH
FINANCES
• During long international flights, walk around the plane frequently to keep your circulation going and help avoid blood clots. Flex legs, feet and ankles in the seat. Drink lots of water and avoid dehydration by limiting alcohol and caffeine intake. Elastic support stockings may help reduce the danger of blood clots (Joe and Terry Graedon, News and Observer, Oct. 7, 2001). • Consider your own health situation and consult with your physician before traveling. • Carry medicines in prescription bottles with you in carry on luggage. Bring a copy of the prescription(s) or letter from your healthcare provider on office stationary explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you. • Take extra pairs of contacts or prescription lenses. • The tap water in China is not drinkable. Drink only bottled or boiled water and avoid ice. Use boiled or bottled water for brushing teeth also. Chinese people also do not drink water straight from the tap; if you are offered water it is likely that is either bottled or boiled. • Do not buy foods on the streets. Exceptions are food that you see being cooked and served hot on clean or disposable plates and commercially packaged foods.
• Be discreet when paying for something. (Although it may seem like play money to you, it isn’t to the host nationals!). • Be cautious when withdrawing funds from ATM’s again being conscious of people around you. • Have an emergency financial plan. For example, have a credit card which can be used in the event of unexpected expenses. • Carry your HTH health insurance card with you at all times. • Become familiar with the HTH health insurance policy, which is covered by the program fee. • Consider purchasing individual cancellation insurance, which is not covered by the program fee.
Check Out the Following Websites for Additional Safety & Health Tips American Citizen Services A Safe Trip Abroad US Department of State Travel Warnings
DRESS • Dress to blend in with the local culture so as to avoid calling attention to yourself as an U.S. American. Avoid American flags, university paraphernalia, tennis shoes, baseball caps, and other clothing that marks you as an American.
Health Information for Travelers Deep Vein Thrombosis Traveler’s Diarrhea
• Leave jewelry at home, especially your Rolex and other flashy items! 21
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Packing Checklist ̘̘
Passport
̘̘ Passport Holder (waist pack or neck strap) for carrying key documents securely. ̘̘
Ticket
̘̘
1 pair of comfortable business shoes
̘̘
1 pair of comfortable walking shoes
̘̘ Wash cloth (these may not be available in the hotels)
̘̘ Debit/Credit Card (Note: ATMs are widely available, be sure to let your bank know prior to leaving for the trip that you will be in China, so as to avoid red flags)
̘̘ Earplugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
̘̘ Cell Phone (check with your service provider to see if they have a plan for China)
̘̘ Extra pair of glasses or contact lens, and a copy of your lens prescription
̘̘ Watch/Travel Alarm Clock (especially if you are not bringing your cell phone, in order to stay on time for meetings and departures)
̘̘ Copy of the first page of your passport stored separately from your passport
̘̘
Lightweight Flashlight
̘̘ Medical/health supplies, including: bandaids, OTC diarrhea medication, Tylenol/Aspirin and etc. as you believe you might need ̘̘ Medications in their prescription containers for the entire trip/copy of prescriptions ̘̘
Wash-and-dry towelettes or hand sanitizer
̘̘
Cosmetics
̘̘ Transformer/adapter if you want to use electrical devices ̘̘ Toilet paper or tissues for use in public toilets (be sure to have this in your purse or on you when outside of the hotel) ̘̘
Camera/memory card
̘̘ Journal for keeping notes and observations.
̘̘ Insurance card and claim form (will be distributed at orientation) ̘̘ Umbrella (can be bought cheaply in China, if necessary) ̘̘ Business casual clothes for site visits; casual dress for sightseeing and free time ̘̘
Raincoat or jacket
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Packing Tips
Clothes: Business casual clothing will be appropriate
for meetings with government officials and site visits. Semi-casual dress will be fine for days when we are sightseeing and traveling. It’s a good guess to dress as Carry on baggage: It is recommended you would for summers in NC. The average temperature that you include all medications in their in China in June is 75°F, with highs averaging at 85°F prescription containers and at least a and lows of 66°F. In Shanghai and Wuxi it will be a little change of underwear in your carry on warmer. Plan to layer clothing since weather can be luggage since it is not unusual to have changeable and unpredictable. Check out the Beijing and bags arrive later than you do! Shanghai weather pages to stay up-to-date on weather conditions.Take clothes which are wrinkle resistant, Regarding new TSA security hand washable, darker colors (to hide dirt), quick drying, requirements for flights, liquids, gels interchangeable. Also, don’t worry about wearing the and/or aerosols are permitted through same clothes several times. Others will be doing the security checkpoints. Items must fit in one clear, re-sealable quart or liter-sized same thing! plastic bag, in containers of 3.4oz/100ml or less. (Please note: The TSA's exact Luggage: Travel light! You will be handling your own measurements are stated above. But for luggage, often in very crowded circumstances. We ask ease of memory please follow the 3-11 that you limit your luggage to one checked bag of no rule: 3 ounce bottle or less, 1 quart-sized, more than 20 kg (44 pounds) and one carry-on bag of no clear, plastic, zip-top bag, 1 bag per more than 5 kg (11 pounds). Indeed, if you walk around passenger placed in screening bin.) Click the block you will find that 44 pounds is far too heavy to HERE to learn more about the 3-1-1 rule. manage in difficult circumstances you will occasionally Plastic bags must be completely sealed and will be x-rayed at the security checkpoint separately. The following items are allowed, but must be presented to officials at security checkpoints if they are not contained in clear plastic bags or are of greater volume than 3.4oz/100ml.
encounter. Although American Airlines does permit two checked bags of 50 pounds each not to exceed maximum linear dimensions of all bags: 62 inches/158cm (length + width + height) each, internal Chinese airlines which will be used for the flight from Beijing to Shanghai, generally accept only one checked bag of 44 pounds and one carry-on of 11 pounds.
American allows one carry-on bag and one personal item such as a purse, briefcase, or laptop computer to bring • Medications (liquid, gel or aerosol) along with you on your flight. Note: currently there is no cost to check bags to and from China on American, • Liquids, juices or gels for diabetic or on flights within China (unless your checked bag is passengers who indicate a need for overweight or you have more than one checked bag). such items to address their medical The carry-on bag must fit under your seat or in the condition. (A letter from your physician overhead bin and should not be more than 9" x 14" x 22" is not necessary). (length + width + height) or 45 linear inches (the length, height and width added together). Please check the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website Passport: Make a copy of the picture when considering how and what to pack. page and visa page and keep it separate from your passport. Leave another copy of your passport (picture and visa page) Don’t carry valuables while traveling: You want at home, or scan and save it in your to avoid expensive jewelry and other such item which email. would attract the attention of pickpockets.
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The Center for International Understanding
China: Then and Now
Participant HealthInsurance WhileAbroad The participant program fee covers international health insurance through HTH Worldwide Insurance Services. This policy is valid while abroad, beginning at 12:01 am on the departure date and ending at 11:59 PM on the return date. This policy covers health only. Participants are advised to seriously consider purchasing lost baggage and trip cancellation insurance, since the Center is not responsible for the cost of missed flights for illness or other reasons. Participants wishing to remain abroad past the scheduled return date may contact their exchange coordinator at The Center for International Understanding (CIU), if they wish to extend their insurance coverage. The Plan features HTH Worldwide’s Global Health and Safety Services- online tools and toll-free assistance to help members manage their health and safety risks, from finding the right doctor to receiving real-time alerts and advice on health and security threats.
ON THE NEXT PAGE ARE SOME SUGGESTED PROCEDURES FOR VARIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES
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HTH Worldwide Numbers While you are abroad: • +0-610-254-8771 (collect calls accepted) Within the US: • 1-800-257-4823
• 1-800-101-0061 HTH Worldwide Corporate Office • 866-281-1668 Center for International Understanding • 919-420-1360 In all calls to HTH Worldwide Insurance Service, please refer to the patient name and the University of North Carolina group plan underwritten by UniCare Life and Health Insurance Policy, Policy Number U-1052-A-06, which covers participants in NC Center for International Understanding programs as well as UNC system students studying abroad.
The Center for International Understanding
China: Then and Now
IF PARTICIPANT NEEDS HELP FINDING A DOCTOR: Ask the Center program
coordinator or local contact person for suggestions. If he/she cannot help, you may consult the HTH website which lists doctors in various cities, about 90% of whom have agreed to accept HTH coverage without requiring participants to pay directly. Directions for signing- in relate to students but Center participants may also use it. To do so, click on “sign in” and fill in your e-mail address. To create a password, click “No, I’m signing up for the first time.” Then fill n the certificate number from your insurance card and your name. Leave the “graduation date” blank. After you accept the agreement, create your password, which must include both numbers and letters. If you still need assistance finding a service provider, call HTH Worldwide at +0-610-254-8771 directly for referrals to doctors or hospitals. The numbers for HTH are on the back of the medical insurance card. Referrals to medical facilities are not intended as payment guarantees but are to direct participants to quality medical services, Thus the participant may still have to pay part or all expenses and request reimbursement later.
IF PARTICIPANT KNOWS WHAT DOCTOR OR HOSPITAL TO VISIT: He/she may go directly
to the service provider and present the insurance card as proof of coverage. Many service providers will require that the participant pay for all or part of the services but some may agree to bill HTH directly. If required to pay, the participant should have the doctor sign the claim form and provide a receipt. He/she can later submit the claim form to HTH Worldwide along with receipts. All participants will receive a claim form with their insurance cards.
IF PARTICIPANT NEEDS MEDICAL EVACUATION: If a covered person sustains an injury or illness and adequate medical facilities are not available, contact HTH for a medical evacuation to the nearest hospital, appropriate medical facility or back to the covered person’s home country or country of regular domicile. Medical evacuation requires written certification by the attending physician that the evacuation is medically necessary and must be approved in advance by HTH Worldwide. The policy covers medically necessary evacuation expenses up to $100,000. Prior approval by HTH Worldwide is required.
If the service provider is willing to accept the policy as coverage but wants to coordinate payment or wants proof of coverage other than the insurance card, the service provider should call HTH Worldwide and identify the participant as a member of the University of North Carolina group plan to confirm coverage. FOR REPATRIATION SERVICES: If (Collect calls from outside the US are accepted). a covered person dies, HTH Worldwide will arrange for the repatriation of the covered person’s body to his or her home country ALL MEDICAL EVACUATIONS AND or country of regular domicile. The policy covers necessary expenses up to $25,000. REPATRIATIONS ARE SUBJECT It does not include the transportation TO THE PRIOR APPROVAL OF HTH of anyone accompanying the body or WORLDWIDE INSURANCE SERVICES. visitation or funeral expenses. Expenses for repatriation require prior approval by HTH Worldwide.
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The Center for International Understanding
China: Then and Now
China Web Resources
The following page contains web resources that will help you gain more insight into the history, culture, and key issues facing China. Just click on the hyperlink to access a particular resource. 26
The Center for International Understanding
China: Then and Now
History/Overview
Culture & Language
Background Note: China
China Culture
China Country Specific Information
Confucius Institute Online
Timeline of Chinese History & Dynasties CIA World Factbook China
BBC’s Mandarin Chinese Language Page
Asia Society Profile on China
National Geographic Guide on China
China History Forum
Why Chinese is So Damn Hard
Technology
News Media Resources on China
Timeline of Chinese Inventions China ‘to overtake US on science’ in two years
ABC World News in China BBC’s China Country Profile
China’s Investments in Clean Technology
New York Times’s China Page
(Full Version of Pew’s 2010 Clean Energy Report)*
TIME Magazine’s page on China
China Smart City Project
China Daily US Edition
Economy
Education/Social Issues
Ministry of Commerce in China
Ministry of Education in China
Youtube Video on China’s Economic Forecast in 2011
Info about Chinese Education
China Economy China Makes; the World Takes The Chinese Century China’s Pollution ‘threatens growth’ 27
PBS’s China from the Inside
Hanban’s Website In China, Looking for Mr. Right China’s Aging Population China’s One-Child Policy Google and China
The Center for International Understanding
China: Then and Now
ChinaVideoand BookResources
Videos
Books
The work of several Chinese directors have ̘̘ Asia Society, Learning in a Global Age: been internationally acclaimed. The following are Knowledge and Skills for a Flat World. 2007. some films, which should be available at most Authored by Ted Fiske, this is a report on the commercial outlets: Asia-Pacific Forum on Education which brought together Asian and American education leaders ̘̘ Chen Kaige: Yellow Earth, Farewell My to assess the challenges of globalization for Concubine education. ̘̘ Zhang Yimou: ̘̘ Britton, Edward, et al, Comprehensive • • • •
Red Sorghum Ju Dou Raise the Red Lantern The Story of Qiu Ju, Not One Less
̘̘ Discovery Channel: China Rises. A four part documentary that provides insight into topics such as China’s economy, food, the city of Shanghai, and its preparations for the 2008 Summer Olympics.
Teacher Induction: Systems for early Career Learning, “Entering a Culture of Teaching: Teacher Induction in Shanghai.” Dordrecht, Kluwer Academic Publishers, 2003, pp. 20-82. As part of a study of international best practices in teacher education, this chapter focuses on the induction of math and science teachers and on collaborative lesson planning in Shanghai.
̘̘ Becker, Jasper, Dragon Rising. National Geographic. 2006. This book looks at China’s ̘̘ The Science Channel: What the Ancients transformation as a global power. Knew: The Chinese. This video profiles how ̘̘ DK Publishing: China Eyewitness Travel ancient Chinese technologists used gunpowder, Guide. 2005. This travel guide provides a detailed porcelain, the cast iron plow, kites, the magnetic overview of various places in China. compass, moveable type, the blast furnace, the multistage rocket and more. 28
The Center for International Understanding
China: Then and Now
Books (Continued) ̘̘ Becker, Jasper. The Chinese. Oxford University Press. USA 2002. This book explores the impact that years of economic reform have had on various segments of the Chinese population. ̘̘ Donald, Stephanie Hemelryk and Robert Benewick. The State of China Atlas: Mapping the World's Fastest Growing Economy. Berkeley, University of California Press, 2005. ̘̘ Dornan, John, Learning from China. Center for International Understanding and Public School Forum, 2004. Findings from a study of Chinese education by a delegation of NC legislators and other education leaders. ̘̘ Chang, Jung, Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China. New York: Simon and Schuster, 1991. This remarkable true story of a grandmother, daughter, and granddaughter as told by the latter provides an intriguing and gripping window into Chinese society from 1900 to 1980. It is well-told and gives the momentous events of the twentieth century a human dimension. ̘̘ Fallows, James, Postcards from Tomorrow Square: Reports from China. New York: Vintage Books, 2009. This book is comprised of twelve essays that discuss important issues ranging from environmental pollution to Chinese reality shows. ̘̘ Fishman, Ted C., China, Inc.: How the Rise of the Next Superpower Challenges America and the World. New York: Scribner, 2005.This book discusses why American corporations are eager to do business in China. ̘̘ Hu, Wenzhong, and Cornelius L. Grove, Encountering the Chinese: A Guide for Americans (Second Edition). Maine: Intercultural Press, 1999. A cross-cultural analysis of Chinese culture with insights into how to interact successfully with Chinese people
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̘̘ Jensen, Lionel M., and Timothy B. Weston, China’s Transformations: The Stories Beyond the Headlines. Lanham: Rowman & Littlefield Pub., Inc., 2006. This book attempts to show China from a viewpoint that few Westerners have seen. ̘̘ Shirk, Susan, China: Fragile Superpower: How China’s Internal Politics Could Derail its Peaceful Rise. 2008. This book provides insight into the mind of Chinese leaders. ̘̘ Sinclair, Kevin, and Iris Wong Po-Yee, Culture Shock! China. 2007. A readable overview of Chinese history, culture, customs, philosophy, and mores including suggestions for Americans on how to communicate effectively with Chinese people. It offers relevant, practical information with the real life insights and cultural know how that can make the difference between business success and failure. ̘̘ Stevenson, Harold, The Learning Gap. New York: Simon and Schuster, 1994. Based on a study of select schools in China, Taiwan, Japan and the US over several years, this book compares behavior and performance of students and teachers. Although seventeen years old, it provides guidance on what to watch for in Chinese school visits. ̘̘ Terrell, Ross, The New Chinese Empire. Cambridge, MA: Basic Books, 2003. This book provides an understanding of the fundamental features of the Chinese party-state. ̘̘ Wasserstrom, Jeffrey: China in the 21st Century: What Everyone Needs to Know . 2010. This book provides a overview of key elements of Chinese history. ̘̘ Winchester, Simon: The Man Who Loved China. 2008. This book is about a scientist named Joseph Needham, who traveled to China and unlocked the technological secrets of the Chinese people. ̘̘ Yu Hua, To Live: A Novel. Anchor Books, 1993, 2003. The story of a Chinese peasant and the struggles he faces during the Chinese Civil War and Cultural Revolution.
The Center for International Understanding
China: Then and Now
100 East Six Forks Rd., Suite 300, Raleigh, NC 27609 Phone: 919.420.1360 Web: ciu.northcarolina.edu