Download Communication Interpreting

Communication
People who are deaf or hard of hearing communicate in a variety of ways. Some communicate by speaking
and using their residual hearing, often augmented by hearing aids; some use only sign language; and others will
use a combination.
Speech reading (lip reading) is an acquired skill that some deaf and hard of hearing people use to varying
degrees. It is not a skill that is innately endowed upon deaf and hard of hearing individuals. Only about 30%
of spoken speech is visible on the lips.
Interpreting
The role of the interpreter in the postsecondary classroom is to facilitate communication between the instructor,
the deaf or hard of hearing student(s), and the non-deaf students. Most interpreters have a college degree in
interpreting or in another field with additional education in interpreting. The interpreter assigned to your class
is not likely to be an expert in your particular area, but is an expert in communication between deaf and nondeaf individuals.
When communicating with a deaf or hard of hearing person, facilitated by an interpreter:
 Communicate directly, maintaining eye contact with the individual, not the interpreter.
 Speak normally, do not exaggerate mouth movements or shout.
 When a deaf person participates in discussions, the interpreter will “voice” that individual’s comments
in the first person.
 Restate questions asked by class members. In an environment such as a lecture hall, it may be difficult
for the interpreter to hear.
When working with an interpreter, understand that:
 The interpreter will keep all communication confidential; will not edit what is said; and will not
participate in class discussions.
 The interpreter is generally positioned where the student will have a direct line of vision to the
instructor, the board and the interpreter.
 The interpreter is not responsible to watch your class, proctor tests or run errands for instructors or
students.
 In order to prepare for class, the interpreter will need a copy of the syllabus, handouts and reading
assignments, as well as PowerPoint or overhead presentations. Please allow the interpreter to preview any
non-captioned videos prior to class.
 When asking the deaf or hard of hearing student a question, expect a delay in the answer as it takes time to
translate from one language to the other, the deaf student to comprehend the question and then respond.
 The interpreter cannot interpret when two or more people are speaking at the same time. Please encourage
students to take turns speaking.
As with all students, deaf and hard of hearing individuals must adhere to the same policies and
expectations outlined in the course syllabus.
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504, post-secondary educational institutions
must “furnish appropriate auxiliary aids and services where necessary to ensure effective communication
with individuals with disabilities”.
For more information regarding MSU-Billings interpreting policies and procedures please contact
Disability Support Services.
For information regarding closed captioned videos, please contact Disability Support Services.