The following is a video produced by the Columbia Resource Center that assists teachers new to working with an interpreter in the classroom. Below the videos is a list of responsibilities the educator should consider.
The following is a video produced by the St. Petersburg College that assists teachers new to working with an interpreter in the classroom. Although this is geared for a college setting, there is some important information available.
Educator Responsibilities:
1. Meet the interpreter/transliterator and the student(s) to discuss communication needs, prior to the interpreter/transliterator providing services.
2. Provide the interpreter/transliterator with teacher’s editions of textbooks, course outlines and other related materials, prior to the interpreter/transliterator providing services.
3. Introduce the interpreter/transliterator to the class and explain his/her role, prior to the interpreter/transliterator providing services.
4. Set aside time for planning with the interpreter/transliterator to discuss course content, lesson plans, upcoming tests, tutoring assignments, etc.
5. Speak directly to the student(s) not the interpreter/transliterator (Example, don’t say, “Tell him to open his book” or “Ask her if she understands.”)
6. Treat the student(s) who is deaf or hard of hearing just as you would other students in your class.
7. Pause for the student who is deaf to answer questions or make comments. Be aware of additional time needed by the student(s). Be aware that the interpreting process will be delayed due to the time required to process spoken English into signs.
8. Know the Code of Professional Conduct for interpreters.
9. Seek technical assistance from the Outreach Program Support System for the Hearing Impaired.
10.Provide management, materials, and objectives to the interpreter/transliterator for tutoring services.
11.Use a moderate rate of speech that will allow the interpreter/transliterator to process and present information accurately.
12.Develop and implement classroom management procedures (the interpreter/transliterator is not responsible for disciplining any student(s) including students who are deaf).
13.Notify the interpreters/transliterators of changes in the school schedule, substitute teachers, guest speakers, field trips, etc.