Working with an Interpreter

What are ASL/English interpreters?
These interpreters are knowledgeable in the signed language and the culture of deaf, and hard of hearing persons, and the spoken language and the norms of the (hearing) majority culture. In Canada, interpreters provide communication in both spoken English and American Sign Language (ASL).
Where do ASL/English interpreters work?
Interpreters facilitate communication in a variety of settings:
  • job interviews
  • staff meetings
  • medical appointments
  • business and legal meetings
  • religious services and ceremonies
  • conferences and workshops
  • mental health appointments

They may interpret for a deaf person at the doctor's office one day, and depending on their qualifications, interpret in the courtroom the next day. They may interpret for television, where there is no live audience, or in front of thousands at a political rally. Regardless of the setting, the interpreter must prepare in advance for each assignment; learning and anticipating the information to be interpreted, the dynamics of the situation, and the needs of the consumers involved.An expanding area for interpreters is educational interpreting, both in post-secondary and in K - 12. In this role, interpreters must familiarize themselves with the terminology of the courses, read all course materials and texts beforehand, as well as preview any audio or visual materials used in the program.

Some of the responsibilities in this venue include interpreting:
  • for instructors and students in the classroom and in labs at tutorial sessions
  • for other situations where interpretation may be required, such as using support services, participating in extra-curricular activities and attending meetings

Interpreters are expected to follow the AVLIC Code of Ethics that states, in part, that all information be treated confidentially, all dialogue is interpreted, interpreters do not counsel, advise or interject their personal opinions and maintaining a professional demeanor.
What are the working conditions of an interpreter like?

Working conditions for interpreters depend on the requirements of the assignment. Interpreters working for interpreter referral services or agencies, or who freelance may encounter different community situations everyday. This often requires the use of a vehicle.

Interpreters working in kindergarten to grade 12 educational settings typically work in one location during the course of the day. Interpreters at the Post Secondary level may have to move from building to building or even between campuses.

AVLIC has developed guidelines which advises on proper working conditions for interpreters with respect to healthy work habits and remaining injury free. For example, interpreters should look to limit active interpreting to 20 hours per week, and to work with team interpreters for sessions that are of two hours or more in duration. For more information, see the AVLIC publication "Repetitive Strain Injuries among Sign Language Interpreters: A Resource Document"; visit our storefront for ordering information.