About Sign Language Interpreting

Taking into account the complexity, rate of presentation, and academic content of class lectures, as well as the student's needs or preferences, CCSF interpreters choose the most effective method of interpreting. The instructor's lecture will likely be transposed, word for word, into a manually coded sign system.

Another category of interpreting is the transposition of spoken English onto lips without voice. This is called oral interpreting. With this method, the deaf or hard of hearing person speechreads the spoken message from the interpreter without the use of sign language.

About the Interpreters

Sign language interpreters provide a communication bridge for the deaf or hard of hearing person.

Sign language interpreters try to make the situation equivalent to that experienced by a hearing person by interpreting exactly what is being spoken. The interpreter does not edit, delete, or add to the translation.

Sign language interpreters may also translate into voice the signs of a deaf or hard of hearing person. The interpreter speaks in the first person because it is the deaf or hard of hearing person who is speaking. Many other deaf or hard of hearing students may choose to voice for themselves.

Sign language interpreters are trained professionals and contract employees of CCSF. Sign language interpreters follow a "Code of Ethics" which involves a strict confidentiality policy.

Suggestions for Using an Interpreter

• Interpreters never participate in the situation. Please avoid discussion or side remarks with the interpreter.
• Speak directly to the student as you would a hearing student. Avoid saying "ask him / her". Please talk clearly and at a normal pace.
• Interpreters only translate information. Do not ask them to explain things or to tutor a student.
• There is a three-to-ten word lag time between speaker and interpreter. This may result in the student asking a question about something just explained or hesitating to participate in a discussion. Acknowledge this fact and encourage the student to participate.
• Some teachers are worried about the "distraction" caused by the interpreter. Usually the novelty wears off quickly and students will soon focus on the teacher.
• Due to the shortage of interpreters, it is extremely important to inform the deaf or hard of hearing student(s), with as much advance notice as possible of quizzes, midterms, class cancellations, review sessions, guest speakers, field trips and other special events. This will allow the student time to make arrangements for interpreting services.