Ask These Questions to a Deaf Interpreter to Choose the Right One for You

June 01, 2023


The intricacies of communication are magnified when one is seeking to bridge the gap between the world of sound and the world of silence. Deaf interpreters, or DI's, play a pivotal role in this bridging process. However, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution, which is why a well-thought-out approach in choosing the right interpreter is vital.

To lay the groundwork, a Deaf interpreter is a specialist who provides interpretation, translation, and transliteration services in American Sign Language (ASL) and other visual and tactual communication forms used by individuals who are Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and Deaf-Blind. Primarily, they function as a mediator in conveying messages between two parties - a hearing individual and a Deaf one.

In the realm of linguistics, the concept of 'equivalence' is paramount. This principle posits that an interpreter should strive for semantic equivalence between the source and target languages. This is particularly challenging in the realm of Deaf interpretation because ASL is not merely a signed version of English; it has its own grammar and syntax, culture, idioms, and regionalisms. Therefore, in choosing a suitable Deaf interpreter, questions that probe their ability to maintain this critical 'equivalence' should take precedence.

One should probe into the interpreter's fluency in ASL and their proficiency in English – both spoken and written. It would be beneficial to ask about their training and experience, particularly their understanding and handling of the unique linguistic needs of Deaf individuals. Additionally, understanding their approach to cultural sensitivity can also provide insights into their suitability for the job.

It's also essential to delve into their professional affiliations. Membership in professional bodies such as the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) or the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) can indicate their commitment to maintaining professional standards and ongoing learning. Asking about their compliance with the Code of Professional Conduct set by the RID and NAD is also prudent.

Another critical factor to consider is the interpreter's familiarity with the specific context in which they will be working. For instance, a legal setting would necessitate knowledge of legal jargon, while a medical context would require understanding of medical terminology. A prudent question would be to ask about their experience and comfort level in different settings.

The use of video relay services (VRS) and video remote interpreting (VRI) technology has amplified the reach of interpretation services. Yet, the technology comes with its own set of challenges such as connectivity issues, visual clarity, and delay in interpretation. An important query would be to understand the interpreter's experience and competence in using these technologies.

If the interpreter will be working with a Deaf-Blind individual, it is critical to understand their knowledge and proficiency in ProTactile ASL (PTASL). ProTactile principles revolve around the philosophy that DeafBlind people should have total access to their environment. Thus, PTASL involves the use of touch for communication.

Lastly, it is also crucial to discuss remuneration. The complex nature of interpretation work means that fees can vary depending on the setting, duration, and specific requirements of the job. Discussing this upfront can prevent misunderstandings later.

To conclude, the decision to choose a Deaf interpreter is not merely about finding someone who can sign. It's about finding an individual who can bridge the linguistic and cultural gap, possesses the required professional competency, and has a clear understanding of their ethical responsibilities. Thus, when choosing a DI, one needs to consider a multiplicity of factors to ensure effective communication and create an enabling environment for Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals.

Related Questions

What is the role of a Deaf interpreter?

A Deaf interpreter is a specialist who provides interpretation, translation, and transliteration services in American Sign Language (ASL) and other visual and tactual communication forms used by individuals who are Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and Deaf-Blind. They function as a mediator in conveying messages between a hearing individual and a Deaf one.

What is the concept of 'equivalence' in linguistics?

The concept of 'equivalence' in linguistics refers to the principle that an interpreter should strive for semantic equivalence between the source and target languages.

What are some important factors to consider when choosing a Deaf interpreter?

Important factors to consider when choosing a Deaf interpreter include their fluency in ASL and proficiency in English, training and experience, understanding of the unique linguistic needs of Deaf individuals, cultural sensitivity, professional affiliations, compliance with professional conduct codes, familiarity with the specific context in which they will be working, experience with technology used in interpretation, and knowledge of ProTactile ASL if working with Deaf-Blind individuals.

What are the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) and the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID)?

The National Association of the Deaf (NAD) and the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) are professional bodies for interpreters. Membership in these organizations can indicate a commitment to maintaining professional standards and ongoing learning.

What are video relay services (VRS) and video remote interpreting (VRI)?

Video relay services (VRS) and video remote interpreting (VRI) are technologies that have expanded the reach of interpretation services. They allow for remote interpretation, but can come with challenges such as connectivity issues, visual clarity, and delay in interpretation.

What is ProTactile ASL (PTASL)?

ProTactile ASL (PTASL) is a form of communication used with DeafBlind individuals. ProTactile principles revolve around the philosophy that DeafBlind people should have total access to their environment, and thus PTASL involves the use of touch for communication.

Why is it important to discuss remuneration upfront when hiring a Deaf interpreter?

Discussing remuneration upfront when hiring a Deaf interpreter is important because the complex nature of interpretation work means that fees can vary depending on the setting, duration, and specific requirements of the job. Discussing this upfront can prevent misunderstandings later.

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