Services for Students with Disabilities - Interpreters

What is a sign language interpreter?

A sign language interpreter is a professional trained in Sign Language, Deaf culture and interpreting from one language to another. As a definition, a sign language interpreter facilitates communication between Deaf and hearing participants of a conversation and bridges the gap between the Deaf world and the hearing world. Interpreters will use sign to express what is spoken and will verbalize what is signed while conveying the intent and feeling of the speaker. Also, to interpret denotes an explanation of meaning. An interpreter does not necessarily sign what is said but what is meant using phrases and examples that are understood by the receiver of the message.

Oral Interpreters are interpreters that repeat or rephrase the message for people who rely totally on speech reading. Oral interpreters will use words or phrases that are more visible on the lips.

Tactile Interpreters are used by Deaf or hard of hearing people with low vision who rely on touch as a means of communication.

A "signer" is someone who has taken some sign classes. A "signer" is not an "interpreter".