Late Linguistic Learners Becoming American Sign Language Interpreters: Challenges and Effective Strategies for Success
Item
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Title
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Late Linguistic Learners Becoming American Sign Language Interpreters: Challenges and Effective Strategies for Success
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Creator
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Dierdra Marie Girardeau
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Degree Name
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Master of Arts in Interpreting Studies
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Project Type
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Action Research Project
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Date
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6/15/2025
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Abstract
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This Action Research Report explores the challenges faced by Late Linguistic
Learners (LLL) becoming American Sign Language (ASL)-English interpreters and
proposes strategies for overcoming these obstacles. Through a review of existing
literature and analysis of a qualitative survey including the researcher’s personal
reflections, this study identifies key barriers such as LLLs (individuals who begin
learning ASL and interpreting skills in adulthood) often encountering unique difficulties
including changes in cognitive ability causing slower acquisition rates, physical and
emotional hurdles, and training programs not set up to help with their needs. The report
also highlights effective strategies to address these challenges, including the
implementation of intensive language immersion programs, specialized mentorship
support systems, and targeted professional development training. By leveraging these
strategies, LLLs may improve their interpreting skills, enhance their confidence, where
they can contribute effectively to the field. The findings suggest that with adequate
support and resources, LLLs can be a significant benefit within the ASL interpreting
profession.
Keywords: American Sign Language, interpreter, late learners, interpreter training,
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Keywords
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American Sign Language
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interpreter
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late learners
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interpreter training
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Committee Member
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Elisa Maroney
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Amanda Smith
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Rights
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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.
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https://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en
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Language
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eng
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Type
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Text
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Identifier
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DierdraGirardeau_ARP_2025
