Melanie Metzger, ASL, Linguistics and Interpretation

Sign language interpreters are asked to perform both interpretations and transliterations in a variety of settings and for many different reasons. Yet research suggests that both interpretations and transliterations incorporate similar features. This study will examine the ways in which a single spoken English source text are interpreted and transliterated by three RID certified, experienced interpreters who are also interpreter educators. The model interpretations and transliterations, available on a commercial videotape, will be analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively with a focus on features described in prior literature (Davis, 1989, Winston 1989, Sipie 1995).  This information will then be shared with the Deaf consumers, as well as with those in positions of making policy decisions regarding the teaching and assessment of interpreting ands transliterating skills