Sign Language Interpreting: Its Art and Science

Sign Language Interpreting is designed to bridge the gap between those who know and use sign, those who do not, those who interpret, and those who administer and finance interpreting programs. This book reflects the recent and revolutionary changes in policy and practices affecting deaf people. With particular attention given to interpreting in the United States and Canada, this book reports on the extent of, and specific changes in, the conditions for deaf people in North America and around the world. Readers are taken on a journey from the early days of interpreting, to the professionalization of interpreters, to an examination of past and present models of interpreting. Two new models are introduced that take into account the influence of all participants and environmental factors in a variety of interpreting situations. The business and ethical aspects of interpreting are discussed while focusing on current practice. Many issues related to interpreting are too often not taught in school and left to deaf people to learn from experience. This book reflects an ongoing effort to address many of those issues. It also serves as a guide to further explorations of the cultures of deaf and non-deaf people, economics, the process of interpretation, linguistics, physiology, psychology, sociology, and even politics-all having baring on the interactions that take place when a sign language interpreter intervenes in the communication process. Anyone who has an interest in, is affected by, or knows someone who is hearing impaired. Also appropriate for legislators, program administrators, agencies that underwrite interpreting, and those whose facilities and services accommodate deaf people.A Longwood Professional Book