The need for Sign Language interpreters --
The need for a sign language interpreter depends on the situation and the people involved. Consider hiring interpreters for occasions when communication is difficult, critical or lengthy, such as during interviews, staff meetings, performance appraisals, training or communal worship. Think of interpreters as communication links similar to a telephone. They are not intended to add information or alter the content of the message. Interpreters perform the same task between individuals who communicate using their voice and individuals who use sign language.
Many interpreters are bound by a Code of Ethics promoted by the Registry of Interpreters (RID). It is important to everyone involved in a communication situation that an interpreter performs ethically. Hiring an interpreter who is certified by the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) or by t he RID improves the chance that they will interpret well and ethically. Some certified interpreters work freelance, while others work through agencies. When making the arrangements for hiring the interpreter you should ask if the interpreter is certified.
Hiring A Sign Language Interpreter
To request an interpreter most agencies require three to five days advance notice. Many agencies have a two-hour minimum policy. The following information is important when hiring an interpreter.
* Date and time of the assignment
* Address of the assignment
* Duration of the assignment
* Number of deaf and hearing participants ( approx.)
*. Nature of the assignment ( meeting, workshop, class, religious service, etc.)
*. Type of interpreter desired (sign language or oral). Consult the individual who is deaf or hard of hearing for insight in the most effective type of interpret for him or her.
* Number of interpreters needed ( if more than 1 1/2 hours, two interpreters will likely be needed. )
* The contact person's name and telephone number or e mail address.
* Procedure of payment. ( it is wise from the start to be clear as to fees )
What follows is a list of referral sources for this area: They
tend to change over time.
This list was down taken from a list distributed by George Scheller
and updated
on a regular basis.
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INTERPRETER SERVICES
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Oregon Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (ODHHS): 1-503-945-5935 (V/TTY)
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Mid-Valley Interpreter Services: 1-541-302-1400 (V/TTY); 1-888-364-1063;
1-541-953-0796
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Tri-county Interpreting: (503) 931-3465 (V,VRS)
tricountyinterpreting@yahoo.com (pager/email)
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Hands In Motion: 1-503-999-9390
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Anderson Interpreting: 1-503-932-8460 (24/7)
AdersonInterpreting@msn.com
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Pacific Interpreters: 1-800-311-1232, 1-503-223-8899
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Access Service Northwest: 1-503-590-4345 or 1-503-888-7222
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Sign On Oregon: 1-503-381-2363
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Interpreter Referral: Signing Resources & Interpreters, 8002 NE Hwy. 99, B-705,
Vancouver, Wa. 877-512-2246 (voice & fax);
request@signingresources.com; www.signingresources.com
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"Amazing Hands" -H.I.M. New Interpreting Services in Polk and Marion County,
E mail is CarmenM97338@yahoo.com 503 623-8583 Message machine on phone
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Working with interpreters before an Assignment
Plan to meet with the interpreter about 15 minutes before a meeting to explain what will be covered Whenever possible it is beneficial to provide a copy of all written materials to the interpreter with ample time to review the information. This gives the interpreter a point of reference and a basic understanding of the flow of the meeting. If he/ she are to interpret during a slide, film theatrical production ( or other presentation where room lights are dimmed ) a small light to illuminate the interpreter will allow the person who is deaf follow the interpreter in the dark. A straight back chair without arms is best for an interpret. Also allow the interpreter to position him/her self so that the deaf person has an unobstructed view. ( this includes glare from windows and other light sources. Good lighting is a vital part of effective interpreting.
During an assignment
Talk directly to the person who is deaf, not to the interpreter. The interpreter is not part of the conversation. and is not permitted to voice personal opinions or enter the conversation. Speaking should include normal tones and complete sentences, with steady pacing and enunciation. Avoid say, " Tell her"... and .."Ask him". The interpreter repeats everything that is said, even when the participant asks for some thing to be omitted The interpreter will also voice everything that is signed by the participant who is deaf.
it is important to remember that an interpret works a few words behind the speaker to obtain a complete thought before interpreting that thought into sign language. Because of this, it will take a moment for the interpreter to finish before the person who is deaf to respond to a question. Brief pauses between speakers permits the interpret to finish before the next speaker begins. Furthermore, if hearing participants rapidly speak one after the other, it will be difficult for the individual who is deaf to interject their thoughts into the discussion. Explaining this to the group at the outset of the meeting will help facilitate smooth communication. The person running the meeting might want to check periodically with the deaf participant to see if there is anything that he or she would like to add to the discussion .
After the Assignment
As a final courtesy, it is nice to thank the interpreter after a meeting. Ask the interpreter if there is anything they need to share. Make sure you know the address and or procedure for making payment. It is polite to inform the referral service of the deaf participants satisfaction or dissatisfaction with an interpret.