How to Be Stand-up Sign Language Interpreter - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

The stand-up sign language interpreter is a valuable resource for those who are hard of hearing or deaf. It enables them to participate in events and meetings where sign language is not typically provided. The presence of a stand-up sign language interpreter allows Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals to gain access to vital information, allowing them to stay informed and connected to the world around them.

Furthermore, it also creates a sense of inclusion and belonging by enabling them to feel as though they can actively participate in the conversations within the event or meeting. the presence of a stand-up sign language interpreter serves to educate the hearing audience about signing and Deaf culture, and it can help to reduce communication barriers between both communities.

Steps How to Become

  1. Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. To become a stand-up sign language interpreter, you must first earn a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Relevant majors include sign language interpreting, linguistics, or communication disorders.
  2. Complete an Internship. Most colleges and universities offer internships to those interested in becoming a sign language interpreter. This provides students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the field.
  3. Take and Pass the National Interpreter Certification Exam. This exam is administered by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) and tests an individual’s knowledge of sign language interpreting as well as their ability to interpret accurately and effectively.
  4. Complete Additional Training. Depending on the type of sign language interpreting you wish to specialize in, additional training may be necessary. This could include completion of courses in medical interpreting or legal interpreting.
  5. Obtain State Licensure. In some states, sign language interpreters must obtain state licensure in order to practice professionally. Requirements vary by state so it is important to check with your local licensing board to find out what is necessary.
  6. Join Professional Organizations. Becoming a member of professional organizations is a great way to stay current on industry trends and best practices as well as network with other interpreters. Examples of these organizations include the RID and the American Sign Language Interpreting Association (ASLIA).

Becoming a skilled and capable stand-up sign language interpreter requires hard work, dedication, and hours of practice. To begin, an individual must first become fluent in both English and American Sign Language (ASL). This can be achieved by taking classes, participating in conversation groups, and attending workshops and seminars.

Once a comprehensive knowledge of both languages has been accomplished, the individual must then move on to the technical aspects of interpreting. In order to be able to provide accurate interpretations, the interpreter must be familiar with the various dialects of ASL, as well as learn how to read body language and facial expressions. Furthermore, it is essential for the interpreter to gain an understanding of the cultures and backgrounds of those who use ASL.

With this knowledge, the interpreter will be able to better relate to the deaf community and provide a more effective interpretation. Finally, it is important for the interpreter to stay up-to-date on the latest technology available, as this can be helpful in providing clear and concise interpretations. With the right amount of dedication and practice, anyone can become a skilled and capable stand-up sign language interpreter.

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Job Description

  1. Interpret signed language for people with hearing impairments, providing real-time translation of signing into verbal communication
  2. Provide on-site support in a variety of settings, including educational, medical, legal and business meetings
  3. Engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including deaf individuals, hearing individuals and organizations
  4. Ensure accuracy in interpreting and relay information accurately and in a timely manner
  5. Liaise with other interpreters, service providers and professionals to ensure effective communication
  6. Remain up to date with all relevant codes of professional practice
  7. Maintain confidentiality and impartiality when dealing with sensitive information
  8. Demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills, tact and diplomacy when working with various stakeholders
  9. Work flexibly and respond quickly to last minute requests
  10. Provide support, advice, assistance and resources to deaf individuals, families and organizations

Skills and Competencies to Have

  1. Excellent knowledge of American Sign Language (ASL)
  2. Knowledge of Deaf culture and history
  3. Ability to quickly and accurately interpret spoken language into ASL
  4. Ability to interpret from ASL to spoken language
  5. Knowledge of specialized terminology and unique vocabulary used in a variety of settings
  6. Ability to work in a variety of environments and with a diverse group of people
  7. Good communication and interpersonal skills
  8. Ability to maintain confidentiality
  9. Good organizational and time management skills
  10. Understanding of the ethical and professional standards for interpreters

Having excellent communication skills is essential for a stand-up sign language interpreter, as they are responsible for conveying information accurately and effectively. In order to achieve this, they must be able to read and interpret the nuances of body language, facial expressions, and gestures. They must also have a good understanding of the language being interpreted, as well as the cultural context of both languages.

stand-up sign language interpreters must have a strong command of grammar and syntax to ensure that the message being conveyed is clear and understandable. Being able to quickly process and respond to the changing environment is crucial for a successful interpretation, as well as the ability to stay calm and focused in stressful situations. Finally, having the capacity to work well with others, including hearing people and deaf people, is key to ensure that everyone involved in the conversation understands each other.

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Frequent Interview Questions

  • What inspired you to pursue a career as a Stand-up Sign Language Interpreter?
  • What experience do you have interpreting for live events?
  • What strategies do you use to ensure accuracy and clarity when interpreting?
  • Describe a time when you had to make a difficult interpretation decision on the spot.
  • What techniques do you use to minimize the impact of distractions on your interpreting?
  • How do you stay up-to-date with the latest sign language developments?
  • How do you manage complex conversations and ensure all parties are understood?
  • How would you explain the differences between American Sign Language (ASL) and other sign languages?
  • Describe your experience working in a team setting with other interpreters.
  • What advice would you give to someone new to the field of sign language interpretation?

Common Tools in Industry

  1. Portable Interpreter's Booth. A booth designed to provide a comfortable and private space for a sign language interpreter to interpret from. (eg: a pop-up tent with a transparent window for the interpreter to communicate through).
  2. Interpreting Microphone. A microphone designed to amplify the interpreter's voice in order to ensure that the audience can hear them clearly. (eg: A wireless headset microphone with built-in noise cancellation technology).
  3. Visual Aids. Visual aids such as images, videos, and educational materials that can be used to help the audience understand the interpreter's signs. (eg: A PowerPoint presentation with images and videos that explain how to do certain signs).
  4. Video Cameras. Video cameras that allow the interpreter to be seen and heard by the audience so that they can understand the signs better. (eg: A high-definition camera that can be mounted on a tripod in order to get a clear view of the interpreter).
  5. Sign Language Software. Software programs that allow the interpreter to type in their translation and have it automatically converted into sign language. (eg: SignBank, a free software program that enables interpreters to quickly translate text into sign language).

Professional Organizations to Know

  1. Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID)
  2. National Association of the Deaf (NAD)
  3. American Sign Language Teachers Association (ASLTA)
  4. National Interpreter Certification (NIC)
  5. The National Interpreter Education Center (NIEC)
  6. American Sign Language Interpreters Association (ASLIA)
  7. International Sign Language Interpreters Association (ISLIA)
  8. Conference of Interpreter Trainers (CIT)
  9. International Association of Conference Interpreters (AIIC)
  10. Association of Visual Language Interpreters of Canada (AVLIC)

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Common Important Terms

  1. American Sign Language (ASL). A visual-gestural language used primarily by Deaf people in the United States and Canada.
  2. Deaf Community. Refers to the cultural and social group of people who are Deaf or hard of hearing.
  3. Interpreting. The process of transforming a spoken language into a signed language and vice versa.
  4. Fingerspelling. The process of spelling out words and names in sign language using handshapes that correspond to the letters of the alphabet.
  5. Signed English. A system of sign language that incorporates some spoken English grammar and structure.
  6. Computer Assisted Sign Language Interpreting (CASLI). The use of computer technology to facilitate sign language interpretation.
  7. Receptive Interpreting. The ability to understand a signed language message and interpret it into a spoken language.
  8. Expressive Interpreting. The ability to take a spoken language message and interpret it into a signed language.
  9. Pidgin Signed English (PSE). A form of sign language that combines English words and sign language syntax.
  10. Glossing. The process of writing down a signed language message in English words that correspond to each sign.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Stand-up Sign Language Interpreting?

Stand-up Sign Language Interpreting is a form of interpreting services that is done from a standing position and is used to provide communication access between Deaf and hearing people.

What is the purpose of Stand-up Sign Language Interpreting?

The purpose of Stand-up Sign Language Interpreting is to ensure that communication between Deaf and hearing people is accessible, effective, and equitable.

What are the benefits of using a Stand-up Sign Language Interpreter?

The benefits of using a Stand-up Sign Language Interpreter include improved communication accuracy, improved visibility, greater engagement and participation by both Deaf and hearing participants, improved understanding of the conversation, and reduced fatigue for the interpreter.

How long does a Stand-up Sign Language Interpreting session typically last?

A Stand-up Sign Language Interpreting session typically lasts for 30 minutes or less.

What qualifications should a Stand-up Sign Language Interpreter have?

A Stand-up Sign Language Interpreter should have qualifications such as certification from a recognized sign language interpreting body, proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL) and English, knowledge of Deaf culture, and knowledge of specialized signing techniques.

Web Resources

  • Working with Sign Language Interpreters - Portland State University www.pdx.edu
  • Sign Language Interpreter - Student Disability Services sds.utk.edu
  • Sign Language Interpreters – Institutional Accessibility and ADA … accessibility.usc.edu
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