SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETING

Interpreters are professionals who facilitate communication between hearing individuals and people who are deaf or hard of hearing. The role of the interpreter is similar to that of a foreign language translator: to bridge the communication gap between two parties.

Requesting an Interpreter

Due to the scarcity of interpreters in the northwestern part of Minnesota, deaf or hard of hearing students planning to attend the University of Minnesota, Crookston campus, are advised to inform campus personnel of their need for interpreter services at least one month in advance of the expected date of enrollment. Every effort to locate qualified interpreters will be made, but it is possible that not all requests will be filled.

Guidelines for Working with Interpreters

Interpreters are bound by the code of ethics developed by the National Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, which specifies that interpreters are to serve as communication intermediaries who are not otherwise involved; thus, when an interpreter is present, speak directly to the deaf or hard of hearing person rather than to the interpreter, and avoid using phrases such as "tell him" or "ask her."

• Relax and talk normally, noting that there may be a lag time between the spoken message and the interpretation.
• When referring to objects or written information, allow time for the translation to take place. Replace terms such as "here" and "there" with more specific terms, such as "on the second line" and "in the left corner."
• In a conference room or class environment, the deaf student and interpreter will work out seating arrangements, with the interpreter usually located near the speaker.
• Inform the interpreter in advance if there is an audiovisual element in a presentation, so arrangements can be made for lighting and positioning.
• Be sensitive to sessions that extend longer than one hour. The interpreter may require a short break to maintain proficiency in interpreting.