Deaf Interpreting educators share many of the same views:

  • A clear theme that emerged was the belief that Deaf interpreters provide a level of cultural and linguistic bridging that is not possible with most hearing interpreters working alone.
  • Often Deaf Interpreters are frustrated with the lack of understanding that the general public has of the need for, and the benefits of using a Deaf interpreter.
  • Many feel anxiety about the role of Deaf interpreters and the lack of clarity among some Deaf Interpreters regarding advocacy versus interpreting.
  • Deaf Interpreters recognize there are opportunities for increased levels of employment within the Deaf and Deafblind communities, as well as within Video Relay Services.
  • Often Deaf Interpreters are frustrated with the lack of understanding that the general public has of the need for, and the benefits of using a Deaf interpreter.
  • Deaf interpreters want to see their work recognized as a specialty and remunerated fairly.
  • There is a strong desire to standardize the approaches to training Deaf interpreters and to have a national standard of training.
  • There are questions about the nature of the RID testing process for Certified Deaf Interpreters and whether the test is a barrier.
  • It is clear that the approach to training and the kinds of content offered varies widely across the country.
  • There is a need for greater diversity among the participants who want to become Deaf Interpreters to reflect the diversity within the greater Deaf community.
  • The Deaf interpreting educators who participated in these focus groups have a solid understanding of some of the effective approaches to educating Deaf interpreters, and expressed varying ways of measuring student success.
  • All of the participants stressed the need for greater research focused on Deaf interpreting that can inform teaching, and the need for authentic and relevant teaching materials that can support the teaching processes.

 

Review the full report: Findings of Deaf Interpreter educator focus groups conducted December 2007