How To Become An American Sign Language Interpreter?

Answer 1

American Sign Language is a language primarily used for communication with and by the deaf. It is a language of gesture, made up of gestures, finger spelling, and facial expressions. ASL Interpreters make sure that the hearing, and ASL speakers can understand each other.

In general, ASL interpreters need at least a high school diploma, as well as fluency in both English and ASL. Many ASL interpreters begin learning sign language casually, in order to converse with relatives or friends, or even as a second language in college. Most ALS interpreters also have additional training, which may include both college degrees and certifications. A bachelor’s degree is often the starting point for ASL interpreters, though it may be in a field other than ASL, followed by intensive study and use of ASL. The future ASL interpreter often pursues additional experience and training using ASL after a four year degree in communication studies, or English, for instance. Schools that offer bachelor's degree programs in ASL or ASL interpretation typically include courses in deaf culture along with sign language training. It is extremely important to understand that ASL fluency at the level required to be an interpreter (as with any second language) takes years of daily use of ASL in all sorts of circumstances; a few years of classes are not going to be adequate.

ASL interpreters need to be exceedingly adept in spoken and written English and ASL, able communicators in a variety of social and professional occasions, quick to observe and retain information, and able to interpret for others without changing the words and meanings of the persons they are interpreting for. ASL interpreters may work as independent contractors, for a particular agency who provides ASL interpretation services, or for institution (for instance, a university or hospital). The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) has a list of North American ASL interpreter preparation programs, organized by location, type of program (for instance, degree or certificate).

The RID offers a variety of certification for ASL interpreters. Each certification program requires training and passing an exam involving performing the kinds of tasks commonly expected of an ASL interpreter. The two most commonly recognized certificates are the NIC (National Interpreter Certification), which certifies someone at the national level as a hearing enabled ASL interpreter. The OTC (Oral Transliteration Certificate) indicates that the person can, using silent oral techniques and natural gestures, transliterate a spoken message from a person who hears to a person who is deaf or hard-of-hearing.

Being an ASL interpreter is a life-long learning career, but has enormous potential for personal satisfaction.

Answer 2

To become an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter, you typically need to have a bachelor's degree, complete an accredited interpreter training program, and obtain certification through the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) or a similar organization. Some states also require licensure. Additionally, gaining experience through internships or practicum opportunities is valuable for developing your skills as an interpreter.