Table of Contents
Background on KCDHH Statutory Mandates Federal and State Laws Regarding Interpreters What is and how to select an Interpreter How to use an Interpreter Definitions What is Communication Access Realtime Translation RID Code of Ethics NAD Code of Ethics Description of RID Certification Levels Description of NAD Certification Levels CART Providers Certified and Licensed Interpreters

What is an interpreter?

A qualified interpreter for the deaf or hard of hearing is a professional who facilitates communication between deaf and hearing individuals. A qualified interpreter has demonstrated proficient ethical and interpreting skills and has gained the knowledge and expertise required to function in a professional capacity.

The role of an interpreter is to accurately convey all messages between the individuals involved in the communication setting. Interviews, conversations, and presentations can proceed at a normal pace, transitioning fluently from one communication modality to another, with the aid of a qualified interpreter.

Perhaps the biggest misconception concerning interpreting for people who are deaf or hard of hearing is the generally-held assumption that a course in sign language or fingerspelling is sufficient qualification to work as a interpreter. A person who knows conversational sign language does not necessarily possess the expertise required to perform well in the role of an interpreter. Professional interpreting requires intense training and experience before proficient levels of skill are attained.

How to select an interpreter

An individual or agency employing an interpreter should be aware that communication modes differ among deaf or hard of hearing persons. Residual hearing, age at onset of deafness, language background, family and educational history all impact the communication style used and preferred by the consumer requiring the services of an interpreter.

The primary consideration must be that communication is flowing smoothly between all parties in the interaction. If any person does not understand the proceedings, an inappropriate interpreter may have been selected for the particular assignment and a more appropriate qualified interpreter may need to be contacted. When contacting an interpreter, service providers and consumers should be aware of national certification levels and attempt to locate the interpreter with the most appropriate skill level for this situation.