Sign Language Interpretation

Meaning-based Interpreting – The INTR graduate is able to:

• Apply a cognitive model of interpreting in which the interpreter actively constructs meaning based on cues provided by others
• Identify the goals of the setting and of each speaker/signer
• Attend to the source message, screening out external distractions (e.g. auditory or visual noise) and internal distractions (e.g. fatigue or personal disagreement)
• Analyze the source message, considering contextual, cultural, linguistic and paralinguistic factors
• Identify content that is explicitly stated and/or implied as well as the intent and affective components
• Drop source language form and construct meaning
• Create a target language message, applying contextual, cultural, linguistic and paralinguistic features of the target language
• Produce a target language message that conveys the constructed meaning and intent, maintaining the cohesiveness of the interpreted discourse
• Monitor one’s own interpreting performance and make corrections as needed
• Use effective interaction management strategies such as deciding when/how to interject
• Make appropriate decisions regarding the use of consecutive and/or simultaneous interpreting modes
• Co-interpret effectively during teamed interpreting assignments
• Adapt signed message output across the spectrum of ASL and Contact Sign Varieties in order to meet the linguistic needs of a variety of consumers
• Critically analyze the effectiveness of interpretations by self and others
• Demonstrate knowledge of interpretation theories and their implications for the work of interpreters

Versatility in ASL – The INTR graduate is able to:

• Comprehend and fluently produce grammatically correct ASL discourse on a wide variety of topics and across the range of linguistic registers
• Communicate comfortably in ASL with users of all ages
• Communicate effectively in ASL in one-on-one exchanges, small interactive groups, and large audience settings
• Demonstrate versatility across the visual language spectrum to meet the needs of a variety of D/deaf, hard of hearing, and Deaf-Blind people.

Versatility in English – The INTR graduate is able to:

• Comprehend and fluently produce grammatically correct English discourse on a wide variety of topics and across the range of linguistic registers
• Communicate comfortably in spoken English with users of all ages
• Communicate effectively in English in one-on-one exchanges, small interactive groups, and large audience settings
• Comprehend and produce written English at a college undergraduate level

• Interact socially in the Deaf community, in a range of contexts and settings, appropriately adhering to norms for social interaction and exhibiting cultural sensitivity
• Demonstrate respect for the values, history, traditions and goals of the Deaf community
• Interact with individuals who are Deaf-Blind in culturally appropriate ways
• Make appropriate decisions about one’s own social interactions and language use when in a culturally mixed group of Deaf and non-Deaf people
• Apply the value of reciprocity to interactions with the Deaf community
• Apply a schema for Deaf-related local, regional, national and international organizations
• Demonstrate respect for the diversity of identities, experiences and pathways into Deafhood

Awareness of Self and Positionality – The INTR graduate is able to:

• Recognize one’s own intersectionality, power, privilege and potential for bias
• Apply a schema for the systemic effects of audism on Deaf people’s access and inclusion
• Exhibit developing allyship, working collectively in support of the Deaf community’s goals
• Use effective strategies for maintaining wellness and balance in one’s own physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health
• Use effective time management strategies
• Recognize stress and implement effective strategies to manage it
• Be aware of and respectful of one’s own limitations and needs
• Establish effective personal and professional support networks

Professional Communication and Collaboration – The INTR graduate is able to:

• Use effective, respectful and timely interpersonal communication strategies
• Be well prepared, reliable and on time
• Seek out and utilize preparation resources for interpreting assignments
• Present self with professional demeanour and attire appropriate for the setting
• Understand power dynamics in professional relationships and work effectively within systems
• Engage in constructive feedback discussions, pre/post-brief consultations, and shared analyses
• Contribute positively to effective teamwork
• Follow standards of practice related to negotiating fees and contracts, self-marketing, invoicing and accounting
• Communicate effectively in standard written business English
• Use social media in a judicious and responsible manner

Ethical Decision Making – The INTR graduate is able to:

• Apply the values and guiding principles of the Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Professional Conduct of the Westcoast Association of Visual Language Interpreters (WAVLI) and Canadian Association of Sign Language Interpreters (CASLI)
• Understand and uphold Occupational Title Protection and its purpose(s)
• Apply effective decision-making processes consistent with theoretical models
• Apply relevant laws, regulations and workplace policies to professional decisions
• Think critically, act responsibly and be accountable when making decisions
• Actively honour diversity and respect the autonomy of others
• Act professionally in relationships with consumers, colleagues and others, maintaining appropriate boundaries
• Articulate a personalized professional philosophy related to working as an interpreter
• Demonstrate conscientiousness in managing the power inherent in the role of an interpreter