Introduces the theories and models of American Sign Language interpreting. Focuses on historical progression, outside perspectives, interpreting logistics and strategies, code of professional conduct, and cognitive processing techniques in correlation with American Sign Language interpreting.
Goals, Topics, and Objectives
ASL-240 is designed to introduce American Sign Language interpreting, and to enable students to demonstrate basic techniques and professionalism when interpreting between target and source languages.
- Vocabulary
- Code of Professional Conduct
- Theories and models
- Cognitive processing techniques
- Cultural mediation and norms
- Code-matching and -switching techniques
- Clarification and expansion theories
- Logistics
- Historical progression
- Outsider (non-client) perspectives
- Express conceptually accurate use of both ASL and English vocabulary that is relevant to the interpreted discourse
- Develop an understanding of the Code of Professional Conduct and how it is utilized while interpreting
- Develop an awareness of the various interpreting theories and models in current practice
- Distinguish social, educational, and cultural changes in local, national, and international Deaf culture
- Identify Deaf culture norms, and practice cultural mediation during various interpreting situations
- Facilitate code switching and be able to demonstrate the ability to match the Deaf client’s chosen mode of communication
- Show ability to interpret from spoken English to ASL, with explanations and clarifications to expand on the concepts discussed
- Demonstrate awareness of logistical aspects regarding interpreting situations and differing environments
- Understand the historical progression of ASL interpreting and the impact it has on today’s professionals
- Analyze how outsiders (non-clients) view ASL interpreters and the challenges faced in today’s society
Note: A grade of C- is not transferrable and is not accepted by some programs at HFC.
Assessment and Requirements
Assessment of academic achievement will be identified and implemented by the class instructor. Methods will include, but not be limited to:
- Participation
- Weekly/regular quizzes
- Homework assignments
- Chapter/unit tests
- Oral/receptive-expressive exam(s)
- Midterm/final exam
All sections of this level will use a textbook (and any accompanying materials) selected by the course coordinator and approved by the World Languages Committee.