Consistent Interpreters
Research shows that working with the same interpreter or team of interpreters consistently provides many benefits for deaf signers, including an increase in the quality of information received from the interpreter as well as the ability to engage in the setting. Consistent interpreters are more effective at conveying information by building rapport and deepening their understanding of context and the material.
Why Consistent Interpreters Matter
Having the same interpreters over time can improve communication and make things easier for deaf students as they navigate their academic careers, social lives on campus, and participation in events and extracurricular activities.
Improved Message Accuracy
- Some subjects have specialized vocabulary or technical words that may not have standard signs. A consistent interpreter and the deaf person can agree on clear signs to avoid confusion.
- Content relevant to one situation or topic can easily be transferred to another, improving communication for deaf people.
- The speaker’s demeanor and tone can better align with the setting and circumstances.
- Familiar interpreters understand the room’s tone, context, power dynamics, and participant relationships.
Stronger Trust and Teamwork
- Seeing the same interpreter helps build trust and a good working relationship with interpreters.
- Interpreters who work together often are better at fixing mistakes and supporting each other.
Fewer Cognitive Demands for Deaf People
- When interpreters are prepared and familiar with the topic, communication is conveyed more naturally.
- Deaf people can spend less time filling in information gaps, asking for clarification, or explaining themselves.
Better Support for Deaf People’s Conversational Goals
- A consistent interpreter can become familiar with the deaf person’s communication style and needs.
- Effective interpreting reduces communication barriers for deaf people, giving them access to information needed to reach their goals.
Important Considerations When Working with Consistent Interpreters
Having consistent or designated interpreters offers many benefits—such as increased rapport, improved accuracy, and better understanding of context. However, it’s helpful to be mindful of the following considerations to ensure a healthy and effective working relationship:
Clarifying Roles and Maintaining Boundaries
A strong working relationship between an interpreter and a deaf person is valuable, but it’s important to maintain professional boundaries. Interpreters should remain within their scope of work and avoid misunderstandings about their role, such as being seen as a personal assistant or advocate. Adhering to confidentiality and ethical standards is essential.
Planning for Service Continuity
Finding the Right Fit
Content Knowledge
Interpreters should have some background knowledge of the subject, especially for complex or technical topics. This could come from their own experience in the field or from interpreting similar courses in the past. For example, an interpreter familiar with legal terms would be a great fit for law or public policy classes. Keeping a list of interpreters with specialized knowledge can help institutions and workplaces find the right match.
Cultural and Identity Considerations
Deaf students have a wide range of language backgrounds, identities, and access needs. For some deaf people and in some settings, having an interpreter with a shared identity is important. Interpreters can leverage lived experiences to improve the effectiveness of their interpreting. For example, a Black deaf student in a Black Studies course may prefer a Black interpreter who can convey the nuanced messaging of the instructor more effectively. It is best practice to discuss contextual preferences with deaf people. In the college setting, the interactive process and intentional collection of student feedback can ensure students get what they need.
Interpreter Skill Set
Interpreters may have training and experience providing services in specific settings or to specific communities of deaf people. Using a consistent interpreter with specific expertise, like healthcare experience, theatre, or large public events can strengthen the quality of services provided.
For example, deafblind and deaf students with additional disabilities may benefit from working with interpreters who already understand their communication needs and have a background in Protactile interpreting. For more information on different types of interpreting, check out this resource.
Designated Interpreters
What is the difference between consistent and designated interpreters?
Consistent interpreters work with a deaf person regularly but not exclusively. Consistent interpreters may be assigned during a shorter period of time such as a semester, and may rotate within a small pool of interpreters working with the deaf person.
Designated interpreters work with a deaf person in long-term settings like a job or some academic environments. A designated interpreter gains specialized knowledge of the deaf person’s field and communication preferences and is the “go-to” interpreter for that deaf person in almost every situation.
Legal Responsibilities
For communication to be considered effective in a legal context, the interpreter must be qualified. The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) defines this as:
“Someone who is able to interpret effectively, accurately, and impartially, both receptively (i.e., understanding what the person with the disability is saying) and expressively (i.e., having the skill needed to convey information back to that person) using any necessary specialized vocabulary.”
Institutions should ensure that all interpreters have the proper credentials, such as certification, licensure, and extensive training. Evaluating the effectiveness of communication access must also include the deaf student’s perspective, as their experience is key to determining whether services are meeting their needs. In general, institutions should make every effort to honor a student’s request for consistent interpreters. Establishing reliable interpreter assignments supports effective communication and reduces unnecessary disruptions. Requests should only be denied in cases of clear ethical violations.
Examples such as Mandi Hayden v. Redwood Community College District (2007) and A Letter to Santa Ana College (2012) have shown that students often have the right to reject specific interpreters who do not have the skills necessary for effective communication access. It’s important to work with students to determine whether accommodations are effective.
