14 Tips for working with Sign Language Interpreters Instructor Guide

SDS will schedule and share prep materials with the interpreter 

• It is helpful if you have any materials to share with the interpreter to increase accuracy.
• Sharing your syllabus and a list of terms, acronyms, and names with an interpreter (or captionist) can help with the accuracy of services.

Be aware of lighting and background 

• If lights are turned off or dimmed, the interpreter needs to be visible.
• Busy backgrounds may be distracting for those who depend on visual messages.

Interpreters should be in the D/deaf individual’s line of sight

• Know that the interpreter might move around the space, to make sure the D/deaf individual can see both you and the interpreter, as well as any other visual information.

Speak directly to the D/deaf Individual (not the interpreter) 

• Avoid directing comments to the interpreter (such as “tell him/her/them” or “ask him/her/them”).
• Maintain eye contact with the D/deaf individual (The D/deaf individual may look at the interpreter for the message).

Speak naturally 

• Speak at a normal pace. Interpreters will ask you to slow down or repeat if needed.
• Spell out any new names or complex terms; this also helps students taking notes in the class.
• Interpreters are listening to concepts and ideas, not just words.

Realize the complexity of visual language 

• Since the individual cannot receive more than one visual message at a time, please do not speak and ask the individual to read simultaneously.
• Be aware if you talk over a film or video that the student is trying to watch two things at once.

Avoid asking the interpreter for opinions about the D/deaf person 

• Interpreters follow a code of ethics that requires impartiality and confidentiality.

In the case of exams or tests, it is best to have any spoken instructions also written on a board or written in the exam itself for clarity.