Many of the Interpreter Training Programs offer two-year associate degrees, bachelors, and master's degrees in interpreting, holding a degree is not presently a prerequisite in the field.
However, like many other professions, appropriate credentials can be a useful indication of an interpreter's qualifications.
The Registry of Interpreters of the Deaf (RID) and the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) certify interpreters based on interpreting skill level. The RID certification test requires interpreters to demonstrate their skills and knowledge regarding language, communication, the interpreting process, ethics, culture and professionalism. RID tests include a written test and a performance test. Alternately, an NAD certification test required interpreters to demonstrate their interpreting skills and knowledge of ethics through a performance test which encompasses an interview.
The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, Inc. has set forth the following principles of ethical behavior to protect and guide interpreters and transliterators, and hearing and deaf consumers. Underlying these principles is the desire to ensure for all the right to communicate.
- Interpreters adhere to standards of confidential communication.
- Interpreters possess the professional skills and knowledge required for the specific interpreting situation.
- Interpreters conduct themselves in a manner appropriate to the specific interpreting situation.
- Interpreters demonstrate respect for consumers.
- Interpreters demonstrate respect for colleagues, interns, and students of the profession.
- Interpreters maintain ethical business practices.
- Interpreters engage in professional development.
Interpreters by virtue of membership or certification by the RID, Inc., shall strive to maintain high professional standards in compliance with the Code of Professional Conduct.
All certified interpreters (NAD and RID) must continue their skill development through the RID Certification Maintenance Program (CMP). To retain certification, interpreters must earn eight (8.0) Continuing Education Units (CEUs) (80 hours of documented professional development experiences) within four years.
To maximize the effectiveness when working with an interpreter, here are some tips you can use:
Meet with the interpreter beforehand
Clarify unique vocabulary, technical terms, acronyms, jargon, seating arrangements, lighting, and other needs.
Provide interpreter with any written materials ahead of time. If there are any written materials to be given to the deaf consumer(s), give copies to the interpreters in advance so they will be able to review vocabulary and get familiar with what will be used as they will be unable to look at the hand out and interpret at the same time.
Provide good lighting so the interpreter can be seen.
If lights will be turned off or dimmed, be sure the interpreter can still be seen clearly (use spotlight or small lamp to direct light toward the interpreter).
Speak at your normal pace. Interpreters will ask you to slow down or repeat if necessary.
Interpreters listen for concepts and ideas, not just words, to render an accurate interpretation.
