Here’s An Opinion On:
Sign Language Interpreting: An Understanding Through Gestures
by
clacandazo
It takes a lot of patience, people person skills, and the determination to succeed in learning Sign language interpreting.
Skills of a successful interpreter
The saying, Patience is a virtue, has been exalted for its timelessness and applicability in all situations. But this is also one of the important traits that a good interpreter should have. This is especially true during the learning stages of Sign language interpreting.
Good communicators may also find this to be their calling, especially if they are able to have a lot of empathy when it comes to clients. As the bridge between the deaf or hard of hearing and the person communicating with him, an interpreter should be wary of moments when privacy or dignity of the client may be an issue.
Tips when learning Sign language interpreting
For those who are not able or willing to learn the proper Sign language concepts, it does not mean that they will not be able to understand and communicate with even the most basic signs.
1. Facial expressions. When using signs, people assume that facial expressions are useless. However, they can actually give emphasis or add more meaning to what you are trying to say. Just as when you are trying sign language interpreting to understand another, the basic facial gestures can aid you to understand the conversation more quickly.
2. Natural gestures. Even among those who do not need Sign language interpreting services, certain gestures are natural when conversing, such as the shake of the head for no, or a wave of the hand for goodbye. Natural gestures are used in Sign language, and more often than not, the more formal and widely-used gestures mean the same thing. In sign language interpreting, you would not have to put too much effort or thought when doing basic signs.
3. Volunteer. Part of learning Sign language interpreting is being habitually exposed to those who are using sign language. This is especially necessary for those who are either professionally learning how to master the language or have family or friends who use it. Volunteering in events and in deaf communities will allow you the chance to observe and interact with those who are fluent in this subject.
4. Be patient. Just as it is hard to learn a new language, it is just as equally hard, if not more so, when learning ASL. However, you should know that as a language on its own right, ASL has its own distinctive rules, grammar concepts, style, and usage, just like any foreign language.
Advancements in Sign language interpreting
Nowadays, there are several equipment and technology that can be used to further enhance the sign language interpreting industry and education. For instance, sign language has moved forward along with technology, as shown in the case the searchable dictionary for sign language interpreting.
Similar to how bilingual dictionaries work, the searchable dictionary was developed to make it easier for parents, family members or friends of those who are of hard hearing or deaf.
Developed by Boston University researchers, people can now look up a gesture in the dictionary by using a built-in camera. To address the sign language interpreting needs of non-English speakers, this sign language dictionary no longer requires users to know the English translation of the equivalent sign language.
In the near future, a group in Georgia Institute of Technology is hoping to perfect a sign-language recognition software for children via educational games.
Charlene Lacandazo is a marketing executive for Rosetta Translation, a leading full-service
translation company
in London, UK.Rosetta Translation specialises in
Sign language interpreting
, as well as all other major
interpreting services
worldwide.
Article Source:
Sign Language Interpreting: An Understanding Through Gestures