When I asked the following questions: "How many of you believe they have sufficient knowledge to be considered an excellent teacher? and How often do you spend time to update your knowledge?" surprisingly, none believed they possess sufficient knowledge that would categorize them as excellent teachers.

They explained that they have social and family responsibilities to fulfill beside their jobs. They had no time to be familiar with the latest advances in the educational field.

They were adamant in stating that finding a balance between the responsibilities toward their jobs and those toward their families and friends is one of the most difficult obstacles they have to deal with on a daily basis.

Asking the same question to foreign teachers, I discovered that there was a consensus that caring is the most important trait of an excellent teacher. Teachers who are fond of and care about their students will exert every possible effort to provide them with every possible opportunity to enhance their knowledge. They will also do their best to facilitate the learning process and make it an enjoyable experience.

Opening a forum of discussion with my students, regarding the most important attribute a teacher should acquire, most agreed that they believe a caring teacher would do everything possible to help his or her students. They also said knowledge is available online and in books. However, caring teachers will find the most effective means to share their knowledge with their students.

Being open-minded, knowledgeable, patient, tolerant and compassionate were attributes that students seek in their teachers.

Regardless of differences in opinions, one must be aware of the merits and shortcomings prior to embarking on a career as a teacher. Lack of passion or the misconception that it is just a job may lead to disastrous consequences for both the teacher and the students.

Some teachers may hold different views to the ones stated. I just hope that my article will open the door to a wide discussion of the issue that may lead to the evolution of the educational system in China.

The opinions expressed here are those of the writer and don't represent views of China Daily website.