Deaf Education Teacher

Do you have a passion for ensuring every student receives the attention needed to succeed? Deaf classrooms in Malawi are eager for your support.

Deaf students often learn in ways that differ from typical auditory-based instruction, with many benefiting from supportive visuals. Traditional lectures relying heavily on sound can be physically, cognitively, and emotionally taxing for these students. Schools in Malawi currently face challenges—limited access to assistive technologies and a low culture of student-focused instruction adaptation—to effectively support Deaf students. These challenges stem from severe shortages of teachers with Deaf education training; inconsistent access to braille displays, embossers, and screen readers; and limited visual usage.

As a Deaf Education Teacher, you will collaborate with schools and the Deaf community to establish responsive, evidence-based practices for delivering curriculum through e-learning platforms. You will strengthen the school staff’s capacity in areas, such as visual learning tools, sign language-integrated digital resources, and technical sign harmonization for digital content. Together, you will create digital learning solutions that improve the instructional quality, supporting both teacher and student success for years to come.

Bachelor's or master's degree in education or a related field.
AND
Two or more years of special education experience, preferably in one of the following areas: American Sign Language (ASL), speech therapy, occupational therapy, or working with visually-impaired.

Volunteers live in peri-urban or urban communities across Malawi’s southern, central, and northern regions. Volunteers for this assignment can expect running water and electricity. Internet is accessed via mobile hotspot or a personal router. Volunteers will commute either on foot or by public transportation.

Gain international experience developing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) curriculum for Deaf and hard-of-hearing (D/HH) students in resource-limited settings.
Experience the rich culture, natural wonders, and warm hospitality that have earned Malawi the nickname "the warm heart of Africa."
Engage in traditional forms of living, learn the value of communal life, and build lasting friendships rooted in mutual understanding.

Design, adapt, and produce resources and digital content to support classroom learning.
Facilitate teacher training sessions on assistive devices, accessibility best practices, and adapting classroom environments.
Support hands-on lessons in basic digital skills, including typing, internet navigation, email, and accessible software for learners with visual impairments.
Integrate assistive tools and strategies into daily instruction.
Demonstrate and encourage approaches that support D/HH learning during lessons and routine activities.
Participate in college programs, staff meetings, and education initiatives to foster a culture of accessibility and collaboration.

You may also work on additional projects that meet your community’s interests and priorities, such as setting up a digital sign language resource library or conducting parent and caregiver digital literacy workshops.

After a two-week orientation on topics such as health and safety, you will move to a peri-urban or urban community where you will collaborate with either Maryview School for the Deaf or Domasi College of Education to assess the needs and develop a work plan in line with their established goals.

Peace Corps/Malawi will equip you with Chichewa language resources and you may work with a tutor who can help you build basic language skills to connect with the community.