Volunteer English teacher for Deaf school

25 February 2005
Country:
Jordan
Organisations involved:
Jack Ashley Millenium Award
Synopsis:
I worked in Jordan for three years (2001 to 2004) and did many jobs around the school such as developing deaf awareness with Ahlam, teaching English, and supervising and helping out the boarding house. I am Deaf and 23 years old.
Issues encountered:
Culture shock when first there and a language barrier as I sign in BSL and they sign in Jordanian Sign Language. Societal norms were very different and it took a while to get used to them. Religion was a major issue as were communication gaps between hearing staff and Deaf staff.
Recommendations:
Improve communication between Deaf staff and hearing staff.
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