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SLIS
fields questions everyday from customers and the public at large. For
many people, the whole
How
do I know if I need an interpreter? Generally, the Deaf, hard of hearing, or Deaf-Blind person will let you know if an interpreter is needed. As the person in a position of responsibility for providing access to your program, department, company, event, school, etc. you may not ever meet the person for whom services are requested. You will rely on them to let you know if services are needed. Our many years of experience show that the potential for unnecessary requests is virtually zero.
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How
do I use an interpreter? The
first time you utilize the services of a sign language interpreter, it
may seem somewhat awkward. For example, in a one-to-one setting, the
interpreter will be signing everything you say, and will be saying
everything the Deaf person signs. You might naturally want to look at
the interpreter as they sign, and then look at them when they are
voicing. However, the appropriate way to work with the interpreter is to
watch the Deaf person as you speak, and continue to watch them as they
sign, even though the voiced message will come from the interpreter.
You should speak directly to the Deaf person, not "tell
her.." Also, the interpreter will use the first person when voicing
for the Deaf person's sign, "What I need to know is." The
primary relationship is between you and the Deaf person, not with the
interpreter. Remember, the interpreter you are working with is a
professional, and will be comfortable in their role, and the Deaf person
is usually experienced working with interpreters.
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What
is ASL? ASL
is the acronym for American Sign Language. ASL is the native language of
Deaf Americans. ASL is a full language, not an abbreviated gestural
version of English. It has its own grammar, syntax, and cultural basis. [ top of page ]
Why
can't we just write notes? In
some rare situations, using note-writing for very brief communications
in non-emergency settings where no interpreter is available can be
useful. However, for full, free-flowing, two-way communication, writing
notes is inadequate. For
example: a doctor's appointment, where serious information sharing and
emotional decision making needs to take place; a staff meeting, where
interaction among all team members is critical; an emergency room, where
the Deaf person is the injured party who is physically unable to write.
Also, English is often a Deaf person's second language, and reading and
writing do not offer comprehensive understanding.
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Her
son can hear - why can't he interpret for her? It
may seem natural to rely on family members or friends for interpreting.
However, this can pose serious conflicts. First, can a family member
take on the role of the objective, uninvolved interpreter? They might
naturally feel, depending on the situation, protective or defensive of
their loved one. Next, they may be able to communicate with the Deaf
person, but the skills needed to interpret are different. A professional
interpreter is prepared to act in the capacity of trained colleague.
Adhering to their code of ethics, the interpreter gives a complete,
unbiased, accurate interpretation facilitating the communication between
you and the Deaf person.
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I've
heard there are 3 or more sign languages in the US: what's the
difference? The
most widely used signed language in the United States is ASL, American
Sign Language (see above). Another form used is known as PSE. This
stands for Pidgin Signed English, a signed form of English using some
ASL but more English grammar. A third type used is called SEE, Signed
Exact English. This is a signed form of the English language where each
word is has a sign equivalent and English grammar and syntax are used. [ top of page ]
How can I become an interpreter? To
become an interpreter you must first become fluent in the language. You
can do this formally through academic course work or independent study,
and always with involvement in the Deaf Community. The next step is to
learn the process and skills of interpreting. There are many two-year
and several four-year interpreter training programs at colleges and
universities in the US. It is estimated that to go from not knowing sign
language to being a professional interpreter takes about as much time
and effort as entering freshman year in college and going trough to
complete your Master's degree. Please
see our links for more information. |
