Interpretation from and into sign languages in conference settings
Conference sign language interpreting
Sign language interpreters work between a spoken and a signed language or between two sign languages. Conference sign language interpreters work in language teams of two or more, depending on the duration and the intensity of the programme. Additional sign language interpreters are needed when interpretation services are required during the breaks or the social part of the programme.
During the conference or the event the sign language interpreter stands next to the speaker facing the room and the participants. The deaf participant can then have a good view of the speaker, the presentation and the interpreter.
Sign language interpreters working in a team take turns of about every 15 minutes. The interpreter who is producing the interpretation is supported by the second interpreter. The support consists for example of confirming the accuracy of an interpretation, checking for misunderstandings or omissions, and providing additional or extra linguistic information that the interpreter was unaware of or unable to see or hear.
The sign language interpreter provides interpretation from a spoken to a signed language, for example from French to French Sign Language, and vice versa from a signed to a spoken language, say German Sign Language to German. Interpretation can also be provided between two sign languages.
Due to increasing globalisation, conference sign language interpreters often work with an additional language than they are originally trained in. For example, an interpreter originally trained in English and French Sign Language may later work into Dutch Sign Language.
At international and European level events there is an increase in the use of International Sign interpreting services. This is especially the case when there are multiple users of different sign languages participating. International Sign interpreters have a special skill set and profile.
In this regard, it could be interesting to listen to this contribution from the 100 years of Conference Interpreting celebration in Geneva, 2019.
Prior to booking the interpreters, it is important to always ask those who need the sign language interpretation service which sign language they understand and would like to communicate in. Interpreters can then be booked according to these requirements and their skills.
For a successful and equal participation of all persons participating in the event, several requirements need to be met. An important part is sharing the programme, scheduling and content of the event with the sign language interpreters. Sign language interpreters need the same preparation materials for conferences as spoken language interpreters. Printed or digital materials should be provided as soon as possible, as the interpreter cannot read and sign at the same time. Therefore sign language interpreters need to set aside preparation time to familiarise themselves with the content.
For additional technical requirements and interpreter placement, for instance, to facilitate web streaming of the sign language interpretation, please consult the AIIC guidelines.
AIIC Guidelines for spoken language interpreters working in mixed teams
We have also gathered some information on sign language interpretation in public service and legal settings.
Professional Associations
EFSLI - European Forum of Sign Language Interpreters
EFSLI is a European membership led organisation of Sign Language Interpreters consisting of national and regional associations, individual & associate members.
WASLI - World Association of Sign Language Interpreters
WASLI brings together sign language interpreters from many different regions of the world. Its aim is to advance the profession of sign language interpreting worldwide. Individuals can become members or can sign up through existing national associations.
Events
EMCI - AIIC Sign Language Network: sign language conference interpreting, professionalisation and course design.
This event took place on 19th February 2021. The recording of the event can be found here.
SCIC: Accessibility through sign language interpreting
On 26 January 2021, the online closing event of the International Sign mentoring scheme took place. Entitled "Accessibility through sign language interpreting", the event was recorded and if you did not have chance to follow it live or you wish to watch it again, the recording is available under the following link. Representatives from the Commission, the European Union of the Deaf (EUD), the European Union of the Deaf Youth (EUDY) and sign language interpreters made presentations. Below you can download the agenda and their respective presentations. This video was shown at the event by Sandra Schügerl, a translator and interpreter of texts and videos.