Deaf Education in Jamaica

  Jamaica

Kingston

Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: Inquire for specific date

Description: Volunteer in Jamaica, the largest English-speaking island in the Caribbean and experience the culture of this tropical island firsthand in a meaningful way. In partnership with Global Deaf Connection, World Endeavors is seeking experienced deaf educators who are fluent in sign language, as well as volunteers without signing abilities. Volunteers will work directly with Deaf schools and programs to improve educational facilities and opportunities for the Deaf community in Jamaica . If you have demonstrated experience in this area or have an interest in aiding the deaf community in Kingston, Jamaica, we welcome your participation.

Highlights: Global Deaf Connection's mission is to develop self-sustaining cycles of Deaf education and leadership skills in developing countries through advocacy, multi-cultural exchange, and mentor support. These cycles will assist Deaf people around the world to increase their social and economic self-sufficiency.

You will have the opportunity to participate in a month long Fast Track Program initiated by a joint effort between Global Deaf Connection (GDC) and Jamaica Association for the Deaf (JAD). The Fast Track Program is an intensive literacy program with the goal of teaching English reading and writing skills to Deaf adults in Jamaica. Due to the poor Deaf education system in Jamaica (most teachers are under-trained in Deaf education and sign language), most Deaf students leave secondary school with less than a 5th grade reading level. In order to enter college or attend a teacher training program, Deaf students must pass an entrance exam. The Fast Track Program aims to help more deaf adults get into college and to put more Deaf teachers in Deaf schools all over Jamaica.

Upon arrival in Jamaica, volunteers are met at the airport and taken to their accomodations. They will receive an orientation that will familiarize them with the town and the surrounding area, the Jamaican culture, and their program.

Once the placement begins, participants will receive an additional mini-orientation at the project site that focuses on project opportunities and responsibilities.

Qualifications:
- American Sign Language
- Signing Exact English or Jamaican Sign Language proficiency preferred, but not required.

Individuals with fluent sign-language skills are needed to help tutor Fast Track students. Participants with little to no signing abilities are also needed to help facilitate the program.

Cost in US$: Please see our website

Experience Required: no

Age Range: 18 years of age or older

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Jamaica Independently

Typically Participants Work in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Other
• Phone Interview

World Endeavors's Mission Statement: World Endeavors is a provider of unique international volunteer, internship, and study programs. Our mission is to become a catalyst for positive change in our community and the world through quality international programs.