How to fit in
How to fit in as a new teacher
D
uring your first two months in
the UAE, you will gain a lot of
new experiences. It can be a
stressful time as you may be
unsure of what to do, where to go,
who to ask and what questions to
ask.
If you are a new ADEC hire, you would
have gone through the orientation
process, which would have provided
you with great opportunities to
meet other new teachers, learn
more about what is expected of you,
housing and school assignments.
The UAE classroom shares many
similarities with Western classrooms.
Unique differences are potentially
linked to the country’s culture, which
is intricately linked to religion and
the mother tongue, Arabic.
4 |
2016 - 2017
|
In every school, teachers interact
with colleagues, students and other
staff members. They also meet with
parents and guardians. It is crucial
that a professional relationship
that embodies mutual respect is
developed early and maintained
throughout the school year. This
article provides a few ideas that you
can use to fit in during the first few
months.
Be thoughtful and kind
Enjoy the people and the process:
Emiratis are very hospitable. Western
teachers are more likely to be-friend
you if you are also friendly. As a sign
of good faith, take a gift with you to
school during your first week. This
can be chocolate, cupcakes or other
confectionary items. Be sure to greet
your Arab colleagues with a smile
and the words, “As-salaam alaikum”.
Be culturally aware
To everyone: The culture of the UAE
is rich with Arabic traditions. You
will see Arab men doing the ‘nose
kiss’ (Khashm-makh) or holding
hands in public. Do not make rude
assumptions or remarks. The ‘nose
kiss’ is an important tribal custom
and way of greeting that represents
the values of respect, pride and
Bedouin identity upheld by most
Arabs in the Gulf region. You will find
that some Emiratis in traditionally
rich areas will stare at you if you are
not modestly attired. Do not react
with unkind comments or looks. The
UAE is a Muslim country and modest
attire is expected.