Leveraging the Gap: Implementing Mandatory Supervised Practice

Item

Title
Leveraging the Gap: Implementing Mandatory Supervised Practice
Creator
Allison Rodgers-Griffin
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Interpreting Studies
Project Type
Professional Project
Date
6/15/2025
Abstract
The work readiness gap in ASL–English interpreting has persisted for decades, leaving many novice interpreters unprepared for professional practice and national certification. Despite efforts by interpreter educators, professional organizations, and training programs to enhance educational standards and implement community-based learning, the transition from interpreter training programs (ITPs) to independent professional practice remains a significant challenge. This professional project examines the need for mandatory supervised practice postgraduation and as a prerequisite for the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf’s National Interpreter Performance Exam, drawing from structured training models in education, occupational therapy, and counseling. Grounded in the integrated developmental model (IDM) developed by Stoltenberg et al. (1987), this proposal explores how structured supervision can support interpreters in navigating the shift from student to professional. The historical evolution of interpreter education, the impact of legislative changes, and the absence of standardized supervision requirements are examined in comparison to other practice professions. An analysis of the effectiveness of structured supervision and postgraduate training highlights the need for a formalized induction period to better prepare interpreters for real-world challenges. Establishing nationally standardized supervision requirements would ensure that interpreters develop the necessary skills, ethical decision-making abilities, and professional judgment before certification.
Keywords
ASL–English interpreting
work readiness
supervision
practice profession
Committee Member
Amanda Smith
Michael Hass
Chung-Fan Ni
Rights
Western Oregon University Library has determined, as of 06/20/2025, this item is in copyright, which is held by the author. Users may use the item in accordance with copyright limitations and exceptions, including fair use. For other uses, please ask permission from the author.
https://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en
Language
eng
Type
Text
Identifier
AllisonRodgersGriffin_PP_2025
Item sets
Graduate Work