Deaf interpreters fill comprehension gaps

Sometimes, it takes more than a lesson taught in sign language for a student who is deaf or hard of hearing to master an academic concept.

Caitlyn Lynch, a Deaf interpreter at Iowa School for the Deaf, works with a student on addition. As a native sign language user, Lynch can get concepts across to students not just by using sign language, but also with gestures, miming, props or other approaches.

Iowa School for the Deaf is using Deaf interpreters in some classes to provide stronger comprehension of a lesson for students who may not have strong language foundations.

A Deaf interpreter is a deaf or hard-of-hearing person whose native language is American Sign Language. Deaf interpreters can assist another deaf person who might not have enough language to understand a hearing teacher or interpreter even though all are using American Sign Language. Deaf interpreters are also helpful for students with a foreign signed language as their first language.

With Deaf interpreters bridging language gaps for some students, the classroom teacher can keep the entire class on track.

Deaf interpreters provide enhanced language and communication access, said Deb Cates, ISD’s language resource coordinator. Individual education plan teams decide if a Deaf interpreter is right for a student.

“We use them (Deaf interpreters) primarily with students who have no language to provide the foundation communication they need to participate in school.” – Deb Cates, Ph.D., ISD language resource coordinator

Deaf interpreters understand Deaf culture and the linguistic nuances of sign language. They may use different signs, facial expressions and body language to more effectively communicate, and their experience as a deaf person can assist in identifying challenges to understanding.

Questions how Deaf interpreters benefit students?

Email deb.cates@iaedb.org.