The role of the interpreter appears to be very straightforward—to effectively facilitate communication between deaf individuals and those who are hearing. Interpreting requires a high level of fluency in two or more languages, keen ability to focus on what is being said, broad-based world knowledge, and professional, ethical conduct. Interpreters serve all parties in the communication exchange.
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ASL Interpretation is the most prominent type of interpreting used today. Interpreters interpret between two distinct languages—American Sign Language and English. ASL interpreting occurs in two ways: simultaneously and consecutively. According to the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, simultaneous interpreting requires interpreters to listen and sign, or watch and speak, at the same time. Consecutive interpreting begins only after the speaker has spoken or signed a sentence or paragraph.
Transliteration is also a prominent mode of interpreting. Interpreters transliterate between Spoken English and a significant representation of English. Often times, elements of ASL interpreting are incorporated, but overall it follows an English word order.
Tactile Interpretation is a method of interpreting used by individuals who are deaf-blind. In this Mode, an interpreter creates signs in the person’s hand, while using other tactile cues to describe Affect and the environment.
Oral Transliteration is a less commonly used visual access system. Oral Trans iterators silently Repeat the English being spoken, while using specialized techniques to supplement the mouthing (e.g., gestures, pointing, etc.).
Cued Speech Transliteration is a less commonly used visual access system. It is a unique System whereby the Trans iterator uses handshapes situated.
In different locations near the mouth to represent English
Phonetic markers. Fluency in ASL is only one of several competencies needed to effectively interpret. Interpreters must also know how to assess the communication preferences or language level of the deaf individual and then adapt their interpretation to meet these needs. Interpreters must be able to retain information and manage the flow of the communication, most often in real time. They must understand and manage the cultural nuances of the environment and follow professional and ethical standards set by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf.
However, graduates of interpreter education programs most often do not possess all of the required competencies and are usually not ready to sit for professional certification.
Achieving Certification According to the National Consortium of Interpreter Education Centers, on average, it takes those with a BA/BS degree 19 to 24 months after graduation to achieve national certification; whereas for
AA/AAS program graduates, the average time to national certification is 25 to 36 months.
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