When oral speakers begin a presentation and provide too much background information before getting to the main theme, Deaf participants find it confusing. They are waiting for us to “get to the point”.

Again, the point or the key idea is given first, followed by any background information, elaboration, examples, etc. The final point is a reiteration of the opening key idea.

Using Interpreters

The role of an interpreter is to facilitate communication between two or more people who do not share the same language, culture, or communication method. It is important to note that an interpreter is not responsible for teaching in a classroom – he/she only interprets signed and spoken messages.

ASL/English Interpreters

American Sign Language/English interpreters receive their training in either a college or university, as do other professional foreign language interpreters.

Professional interpreters follow a very strict Code of Ethics. Please observe the following three ethical rules:

• Confidentiality: Interpreters will never discuss what they have interpreted, and they will not share the information with anyone. Everything interpreted is kept in the strictest of confidence. If you happen to run into the interpreter outside of work, he or she cannot talk about what they interpreted for you or about the people involved. The confidentiality rule is followed because any information they interpret belongs to the parties involved in the meeting or situation and not to the interpreter.
• Impartiality: The interpreter is only there to interpret between two languages. The interpreter is not a teacher, helper, advocate or advisor. If you or the Deaf person want an advocate or advisor, (which is a certainly a valid need); please contact our agency. Do not, however, ask the interpreter to take on these responsibilities. They are “neutral parties” to your communications.
• Faithful Interpretation: The interpreter will interpret “everything” in the room: the sound of a plane flying overhead, one side of a telephone conversation, the fact that someone is knocking at a door etc. Be careful not to say to the interpreter “Don’t interpret this, but…” because the interpreter will be interpreting your phrase as you say it!

The interpreter is bound professionally to all of these ethics