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Sign Language Interpreters

Decent Essays

Introduction

In Australia, sign language interpreters are accredited by the National Authority for the Accreditation of Translators and Interpreters (NAATI), alongside interpreters of other spoken languages (Bontempo & Levitzke-Gray, 2009). Interpreter training is a fundamental route to preparation for student interpreters to gain accreditation from NAATI. Bontempo and Levitzke-Gray (2009) provide a comprehensive overview of current interpreter training and testing in Australia, and make suggestions for future education and training for Australian Sign Language (Auslan) interpreters to further consolidate their skills and expertise in interpreting, including the fact that novice and student interpreters are sufficiently equipped with a diverse …show more content…

Studies in the United States also suggest that interpreters need to be well equipped with the appropriate linguistic and cultural skills to interpret accurately (Johnston, S., 2007; Roy, 2000). These studies have indicated that when interpreting students are engaging in regular opportunities for reflective practice and learning, student interpreters can successfully integrate into the interpreting workforce (Cokely, 2005; Johnston, S., …show more content…

Contrasting this demand, there are approximately 890 NAATI accredited Auslan interpreters nation-wide; 768 accredited at the paraprofessional level and 120 accredited at the professional level (Bontempo & Levitzke-Gray, 2009). Due to the vast under-representation of accredited professional level Auslan interpreters in Australia, many paraprofessional level interpreters are regularly being offered and accepting jobs that are classified by NAATI as professional level jobs , and without the appropriate training for specialised interpreting assignments there is potential for interpreter skill level

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