Transcribing-the New Interpreting?

Technology is quickly becoming an essential part of almost any professional field. It helps make processes quicker and more efficient. However, for ASL interpreters, technology can also change a lot of the core aspects of our field. Many deaf college students and even deaf adults in other fields are choosing to use transcribing as a way to ascertain important information. They prefer this to having a signing interpreter in the room, because it can sometimes be a more efficient way to have acess to the information being given. However, this means that less ASL interpreters are needed. The way many interpreters have solved this problem is by training to be a transcriber as well as in interpreter in order to be available to a wider range of consumers. While I personally prefer ASL to typing, I am also aware that the rapid advancement of technology calls for an adaptation of those affected by it. Therefore, I am willing to be trained as a transcriber if it means furthering my employment. This is just the first phase of transition due to technology that interpreters are having to deal with. I believe as technology improves even more, we will face new obstacles to which we will have to adapt.

Using Technology to Improve Interpreting Skills

American Sign Language and interpreting websites can be a hugely beneficial tool for interpreters in both an educational setting and a community setting. To simply learn vocabulary, there are sites such as ASLPro. However, some sites that have been invaluable to me are those that dialogue about interpreting experiences and situations. The interpreter's friend has been one place that I go to research signing in both professional and religious settings. The Registry of Interpreter's for the Deaf(RID) also has a website that offers a wide variety of knowledge about national and local interpreting. Seeking out the blogs and websites of other interpreters is also a good way to network. In order to be the most knowledgeable interpreter possible, networking is a must. It offers opportunities not only to meet and dialogue with other interpreters, but also to acquire more knowledge about their experiences and know what is going on in other parts of the country. Following others on twitter is beneficial too. The technology that is now readily available to interpreters has enabled us to make large improvements in our field.