So You Want to Be an Interpreter: An Introduction to Sign Language Interpreting

For beginners to advanced interpreters, this book provides a comprehensive overview of the work of sign language interpreters. It is geared toward individuals seeking information about this field of work, students studying to become interpreters and individuals who want to better understand the role and work of sign language interpreters. Introductory chapters include an overview of communication and message construction, the influence of culture on communication, the challenge of working in multicultural communities including the deaf community, deaf-hearing cultural differences and the power inherent in the role of an interpreter. Further topics include an introduction to terminology specific to the field of sign language interpretation, philosophical approaches to the work of sign language interpreters, the mental process of interpreting between two languages, as well as the h history and professionalization of both spoken language and sign language interpreters. Other chapters detail the specific linguistic challenges of mediating communication between American Sign language (ASL) and English, ethical guidelines for professional practioners, an overview of various settings where interpreters work, and a review of basic business practices. Supplemental resources can be found in a guided study on a 5-CD set (So You Want To Be An Interpreter: Study Guide - ISBN: 0-9640-367-9-7. To order, contact distributor 1-800-767-4461 or www.signenhancers.com.Jan Humphrey is the author of 'So You Want to Be an Interpreter: An Introduction to Sign Language Interpreting' with ISBN 9780964036772 and ISBN 0964036770.