Program Outcomes

Graduates of the Douglas College Sign Language Interpretation Program entering the field of Sign Language Interpretation will be able to:

decide on the use of consecutive or simultaneous interpreting
receive the source language utterance (ie, listen to the spoken English, or see the signs). This includes concentrating on the utterance by screening out external distractions (such as noise, or someone briefly blocking the view of the Deaf speaker) as well as internal distractions (fatigue, personal disagreement with what is being said or signed, etc.)
analyze the message, applying knowledge of the language (eg, how does English show that an utterance is a question), paralinguistics (eg, what might a rapid change to larger, more staccato signs mean), culture and context
understand the speaker/signer's meaning separate from the form in which it is presented. The meaning is represented in a form that is separate from language -- it may be a visual representation, a kinesthetic one, auditory, etc.
search for equivalents in the target language, considering linguistics, paralinguistics, culture and context
produce an utterance in the target language that conveys the original meaning
monitor their work and make any corrections needed
manage their process of interpreting (eg, deciding when to start interpreting, interrupting the speaker if need be, etc.)

interact socially within the Deaf community, in a range of context and settings, using appropriate norms for social interaction and cultural sensitivity
interact socially within the English-speaking community, in a range of context and settings, using appropriate norms for social interaction and cultural sensitivity

apply the underlying principles of the Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Professional Conduct to professional decisions
apply any relevant laws to professional decisions
think critically and act responsibly when making professional decisions
actively accept diversity
act professionally in relationships with consumers, colleagues and others

understand power relationships and work effectively within systems
demonstrate effective interpersonal communication
act respectfully to all people
understand systems and power relationships
prepare for interpreting work, debrief afterwards
engage in professional consultations (eg, with team interpreter, interpreting or Deaf mentor, etc)
present a professional demeanor (appropriate attire and deportment for the setting)
follow field standards related to negotiating fees and contracts, self-marketing, invoicing, and accounting
communicate in standard written business English

Douglas College