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Quick tips for  using
ASL Interpreters


Working with Deaf and Hard of Hearing Participants on Virtual Platforms.  Plan your events with access in mind!


Preparation materials
In order to prepare to interpret the information in American Sign Language (ASL), the interpreter needs to become familiar with the content that will be discussed. Materials requested can include agenda, speeches, topics and names, technical vocabulary, handouts, slides, and background information.


Professionalism
The interpreter must wear clothing considered "business professional." Attire should be worn in appropriate shades, keeping to solid colors and avoiding patterned tops. A general rule of thumb for interpreters is to wear a top that is contrasting with their skin tone.


Environment Control
Environmental demands that may affect video interpreting for Zoom or similar platforms includes lighting, seating arrangement, location of the camera, use of a microphone, solid color background, and environmental noises. Virtual backgrounds are visually distracting and will impede the visual experience for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing clients.


virtual etiquette
It is helpful if the host of the meeting encourages participants to self-identify before they start speaking. This will assist the interpreter and clients to be able to follow the discussion quickly and easily. Assign the interpreter(s) as co-host, which allows them to spotlight themselves and pin as many screens as needed.


Confidentiality
The interpreters are present simply to facilitate communication between speaker(s) and the participants(s). The interpreter acknowledges that they may be privy to participants' confidential or personal information. Certified interpreters follow a code of professional conduct, which requires them to keep all interpreted information confidential. This is one benefit of hiring a certified interpreter.


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Communication
Overlapping comments between participants can be difficult for the interpreter to manage. It is helpful to have one person speak at a time. If you are talking and notice the Deaf participant starting to sign, pause and wait for the interpreter to interpret the message. Allow processing time for interpreters to facilitate communication. Maintaining eye contact with Deaf participants is a way of showing respect and much more.


Teaming
The interpreting process is very demanding. Two languages with different grammatical structure, syntax, and cultural connotations are being interpreted. Research indicates that after about 20 minutes, the mental process and quality of the interpretation decreases. One interpreter will actively interpret for 15-20 minutes while the other monitors the clarity of the interpretation and ensures that no information is missed.


Deaf Interpreter
Professional Deaf interpreters are fluent in ASL or in other signed languages, as well as non-standard forms of language. Deaf and non-Deaf interpreters (hearing interpreters) work together as a professional team to facilitate the communication process. Deaf interpreters often provide interpretation in situations involving Deaf children or Deaf individuals who use a non-standard form of ASL, are ill, or have physical restrictions or cognitive limitations, or for mental health assessments and/or treatment, healthcare, in court and other legal settings, media coverage, or in any situation upon request.


Certification Check
To verify that an ASL interpreter is certified, please visit rid.org and click on "Search Tools" on the top menu bar. Then click "Search the Registry." If the interpreter's name is unlisted, please consider reaching out to the interpreter for a copy of their credentials from RID.


Request an Interpreter
Bridges Oregon Interpreting is the only Deaf-managed, local nonprofit providing interpreting services. We believe this is the best way to serve our community. We are the only entity with 100% of all net proceeds going to provide services to Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing Oregonians. Bridges Oregon does accept requests for interpreter services. Requests can be made by email at request@bridgesoregon.org.


Mission: Bridges Oregon, Inc. is a nonprofit organization serving Oregonians who are Deaf, DeafBlind, or Hard of Hearing or face other communication barriers. It is in our mission to facilitate equity and inclusiveness and to provide a bridge to opportunities through advocacy, education, and communication.
www.bridgesoregon.org