A sign language interpreter is a trained professional who translates information from British Sign Language into English and vice versa. The words or signs used by the speaker or signer, with intonation, pauses and gestures must all be considered by the interpreter in order to identify the meaning of the message. For example, did the speaker intend to make a sarcastic remark, or was the comment meant as a joke? The interpreter then reformulates this message into the vocabulary and grammatical structure of the second language.
An interpreter facilitates communication between Deaf and hearing people in many situations where interaction needs to take place; from one-to-one appointments at a bank, doctor’s surgery or travel agent to board meetings, workshops and large conferences. Interpreters work in schools, hospitals, courts of law, in galleries, museums and theatres.
(Interpreter listening then signing the message)
The profession of interpreting developed after the First World War when diplomats from different nations needed spoken language interpreters to aid communication. Before the introduction of microphones and headsets, spoken language interpreters worked consecutively, repeating the speaker’s presentation at intervals of a phrase, a few sentences or a whole speech. On a one to one basis this is still the common practice. However, as it is possible for both a spoken and a signed message to occur at the same time without interrupting each other, sign language interpreters will tend to work simultaneously.
(Simultaneous interpreting)
The interpreter must hear, or see, an utterance before interpreting it and so will ALWAYS work a little behind, in terms of time, the speaker or signer. So the message received by the Deaf or hearing person is always behind those who receive it directly. Sign language interpreters must also be able to see clearly all proceedings and be seen clearly by all participants and so cannot work in the enclosed booths used by spoken language interpreters.