Abstract:

This brief paper describes the eight-week teaching experience of one female professor, in Kunming China. It is an example of International Business Outsourcing in the services industry. The course was an undergraduate class in international business and the experience was immensely valuable for all participants, but the culture of rampant student cheating proved to be very difficult.

The paper begins with a description of my arrival in China, the policies and procedures as well as the adjustments required by professors to meet the standards and expectations of the university. It then details the infrastucture of the accommodation and classrooms. The students are then described. The paper continues with an explanation of the gap between student/professor expectations. Evidence is presented that shows that this gap in expectations is compounded across borders.

The issues, incidences and techniques that I used to minimize student cheating are detailed. The experiences of fellow colleagues and my perceptions of the attitude of the administration are presented.

Universities are responding to the challenges of globalization by expanding operations overseas. It is estimated that more than 500 branches or ‘twinned’ institutions are operating worldwide (Altbach) with at least 1.8 million international students pursuing higher education outside their home countries (Kau). It is a growing phenomenon. This is a personal story, but an important one, that other professors considering visiting and teaching abroad will be able ot benefit from. The sharing of my experiences will help to strengthen understanding and narrow the inevitable gaps among professors, students, and administrators in transnational eduction.

Keywords:

China, Teaching, Cheating, Undergraduate, International Business.