Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Discuss perspectives, in a nonjudgemental manner, on  issues which are currently relevant to the field of interpreting and to the Deaf community.
2. Relate theoretical knowledge of the role and function of an interpreter to actual interpreter practice.
3. Research and share professional development opportunities in the community.
4. Use American Sign Language skills to communicate with Deaf adults/children in a structured setting.
5. Apply concepts of confidentiality and impartiality to communication about professional and Deaf-community-related topics.
6. Be prepared for professional adherence to the RID Code of Ethics: be able to reflect on, write about and discuss experiences in a nonjudgmental manner, keeping all identifying information confidential.

This course will consist of the following activities:

Weekly recitations with instructor to discuss students' experiences, observations and other
relevant issues.
Guest speakers.
Observation of a professional interpreter, as arranged by the instructor.
Active interaction with Deaf children/adults and/or Deaf/Blind adults, as arranged by the instructor.
Attendance at professional meetings and workshops in the field of interpreting.
Active participation in the Deaf community through activities of students' choosing, but with instructor approval.
Reflection on experiences through weekly journal entries and other assignments.

• Students must accumulate and document a minimum of 33 hours in order to be awarded a grade.
• Attendance at assigned observations, and assigned communication growth activities is required.
• Attendance and participation at recitations is required.
• Students will be evaluated on the depth and clarity of journal entries and other assignments, as well as completeness of information, thoroughness of analysis, and ability to relate in-class learning to practicum experiences.

This course applies the content of previous and concurrent courses such as ITP 241 Deaf Culture I and ITP 111 American Sign Language I. It includes:

• Continued development of expressive and receptive ASL fluency
• Development of an understanding of the life experiences of Deaf children and adults
• Appropriate professional dress and behavior
• Appropriate behavior for interacting with culturally Deaf people
• Interpreting techniques, including placement, language use, and interaction with consumers
• Awareness of professional organizations and continuing education opportunities.