Instead of voice to voice interpretation, sign language interpreters convert the intended meaning from voice into sign language and thus opening up a communication channel with people who can read and only understand sign language.
Sign language interpreting is a complex process of transmitting spoken English into American Sign Language (ASL) and or gestures for communication between deaf and hearing-impaired individuals. ASL, for instance, has its own grammatical rules, sentence structure and cultural nuances. In addition, interpreters must thoroughly understand the subject matter in which they work so that they are able to convert information from one language, known as the source language, into another, known as the target language.
Most sign language interpreters either interpret, working between English and ASL, or they transliterate, which is working between spoken English and a form of a signed language that uses a more English-based word order. Some interpreters also specialize in oral interpreting for deaf or hard of hearing persons who lip-read instead of sign. Other specialties include tactile signing, which is interpreting for persons who are blind as well as deaf by conveying signs into a person’s hands; cued speech; and signing exact English.
An interpreter’s work is thorough and highly detailed. The interpreter must become familiar with the subject matter that the speakers will discuss; a task that may involve in-depth research on topic-related words and phrases that may be used from both languages. The interpreter usually travels to the location where his or her services are needed; physical presence is required except for video conferencing or video telephone interpretation. While interpreters may not completely specialize in a particular field or industry, many do focus on one area of expertise such as business, law, medicine or education.
There are two types of interpretation – simultaneous and consecutive – each with their specific characteristics and requirements. Simultaneous interpretation, for instance, requires interpreters to listen and sign, or watch and speak, at the same time. The interpreter begins to convey a sentence in the target language while listening or watching the message being delivered in the source language. This type of interpreting happens most commonly in business meetings, college classes or conferences.
In contrast, consecutive interpretation begins only after the speaker has spoken or signed a sentence or paragraph. Interpreters may be required take notes to assist in the process of creating a coherent accurate translation. This form of interpretation is used most often for witness testimony in legal settings or in a one-on-one meeting such as with a doctor, social worker or counsellor.
In both simultaneous and consecutive interpreting, the interpreter sits in proximity to the English speaker to allow the deaf person to see the interpreter, as well as the facial and body expressions of the English speaker. As there is a critical need for a high degree of concentration in both types of interpretation, as well as the intense physical demands of the work, interpreters often work in pairs, with each interpreting in 20-to 30- minute segment blocks.
Scribers’ International has a pool of certified interpreters that will serve to bridge the communication gaps and enhance the quality of interaction between the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. Our interpreters are carefully screened for the appropriate skills and background for each request. They are committed individuals who not only achieve the required professional certifications, but continue to maintain and grow the skills needed.
Highly dynamic and sophisticated in their area of specialisation, the interpreters possess physical stamina, endurance and the ability to emotionally handle an assignment and adhere to confidentiality; a great knowledge of the English language and the ability to speak clearly; as well as an understanding that interpreting is a complex process that requires linguistic, cognitive and technical skills and the ability to portray the feelings and emotion of the speaker, whether voice or sign interpreting;
