SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETERS (Hearing)
The interpreter’s role appears to be straightforward: to effectively facilitate communication between deaf people and hearing people. However, the task’s complexities, the various types of visual interpreting, and the interpreter’s vast range of qualifications make it anything but simple. Interpreting necessitates a high level of fluency in two or more languages, as well as a keen ability to focus on what is being said, broad world knowledge, and professional, ethical or moral conduct. In other words, An interpreter is a specially trained professional whose job consists of convey messages between people who do not share the same language, culture, or mode of communication. The purpose of providing an interpreter is to provide equal access to information and interactions for hearing, deaf, and hard of hearing people.
Sign language interpreters are bound by a Code of Professional Conduct that was established to protect the rights of all interpreting service consumers, including those who are deaf or hard of hearing. This Code establishes professional behaviour and practise standards for interpreters, ensuring confidentiality, discretion, and impartiality in conveying the messages of all consumers involved. The interpreter must faithfully transmit the spirit and content of any speaker or signer, while retaining control over communication interactions with consumers who are hearing, deaf, or hard of hearing.
When does sign language interpreter needed the most?
When hearing and deaf people need to communicate, interpreters may be called in. An interpreter is required in a variety of settings, including medical, health care, mental health, legal, educational, religious, performing arts, employment, social, and political settings.
Can anyone who signs be an interpreter?
No. The most common misconception among the general public is that anyone who has taken Sign Language classes or knows the manual alphabet is qualified to be an interpreter. A signer is someone who can converse with people who are deaf or hard of hearing in a conversational manner. An interpreter is someone who is not only bilingual but also has received specialised training and credentials in order to develop the skills and expertise required to mediate meanings across languages and cultures.Years of training and practise are required to develop these skills.
