What is CART Service?

Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) services are individuals who have additional training and/or experience in realtime reporting and in aspects of providing translation for deaf, late-deafened and hard of hearing people. The CART provider types into a stenographic machine which is connected to a computer. The computer, using special software translates the stenotype shorthand into English which is simultaneously displayed on a computer monitor or can be projected onto a large wall screen.

Who Uses CART services?

CART service enables communication access for deaf and hard of hearing persons who are competent in English, both written and oral, and who either (a) are not able to use ASL interpreters, sign language transliterators and/or oral interpreters in general or (b) do not choose to do so in the particular situation. In general, persons who choose to use CART service are late-deafened adults, oral deaf persons and some hard of hearing persons.

Is a CART Provider a kind of "interpreter"?

An interpreter translates one language into another, like English, into American Sign Language. CART providers convert spoken English into a printed English format. The CART Provider does not interpret from one language to another. They are comparable to a Transliterator, who changes spoken English communication into a visually enhanced English-based format or Signed English transliteration. CART providers, ASL interpreters, Signed English transliterators and Oral transliterators all provide communication access services, each through its own mode, for particular deaf, hard of hearing and late-deafened people.

When Can I Use CART Service?

CART service can be used in any situation. CART services are often used in group meetings, like legislative hearings, workshops, classroom settings, on-the-job training, advisory council or board meetings or court proceedings. CART service can also be used in job interviews, supervisor-employee meetings, doctor appointments, in school, adult education settings, therapy sessions, church, or meetings with lawyers and other service persons.

TIPS FOR WORKING WITH A CART REPORTER

1. Provide meeting materials in advance.
2. Avoid acronym usage.
3. If acronyms cannot be avoided, provide acronyms and pronunciations in advance.
4. Provide spelling and pronunciation of technical words, proper nouns, speakers.
5. Speak clearly.
6. Speak one at a time.
7. Speak numbers, e-mail, and websites slowly, and repeat.
8. Remember CART reporters are perfectionists.