Interpreters are being used more frequently in education than ever before as Deaf students take courses in mainstream schools and colleges. Each student and each class environment may create unique demands on the interpreter, but there are some general points which should be considered when working with a sign language interpreter in an educational setting.
- An interpreter will need to know the nature of the class as this will allow them to dress appropriately. For example, it would not be appropriate for an interpreter to wear a smart suit in a workshop or metalwork or PE lesson.
- In the same way that teachers prepare before taking their classes, interpreters also benefit from preparation. To allow the interpreter to work effectively, it is essential to provide the interpreter with the following: class texts; lecture notes; lesson plan; video or film footage to be used
- Deaf students must have a clear view of the interpreter, but also of any visual aids such as a black or white board and OHPs. It may be more effective for the interpreter to sit or stand beside the board or screen but he/she will be ready to move with the teacher if the latter moves around the classroom.
- Hearing students are able to read text and listen to a teacher’s instruction or explanation simultaneously. A Deaf student will not be able to do this as the teacher’s comments will be provided via the interpreter and it is not possible to watch the interpreter and read at the same time. Ideally, Deaf students should be provided with the same notes that the interpreter uses to prepare so that the student does not have to write down.
- An interpreter does not only interpret the teacher’s input: comments made by the other students during class and in discussion groups and auditory information on videotape should all be conveyed by the interpreter. This means that, although the teacher may only be talking for half a lesson, the interpreter may be continuously working, throughout the entire lesson. An individual interpreter cannot be expected to perform well for extended periods without breaks and these should be catered for.
- Interpreters are not employed to assist the Deaf student with the work. Questions the student may have, ought be addressed directly to the teacher.
- Only one voice can be interpreted at a time; class debate and discussion needs to be managed efficiently to avoid hearing people talking over each other or smaller groups muttering to each other.
- There is always a time delay between the spoken message and the interpreted message. It is vital that this be taken into account when asking questions of the class - allow time for the question to be interpreted before seeking a response from the class so that the Deaf student has time to offer an answer.
- Sign language interpreters are not the only form of communicator available for the Deaf student. Check with the student whether they require a note-taker, or prefer to use a lip-speaker.
- If a Deaf student is unwell or is unavailable for a class or training session, informing the interpreter or agency as soon as possible will release the interpreter for other assignments.