Changes in community contact characteristics in interpreter education

Item

Title
Changes in community contact characteristics in interpreter education
Creator
Vicki Darden
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Interpreting Studies
Project Type
thesis
Date
6/6/2013
Abstract
In this study, changes in the amount and type of student contact with the Deaf community outside of classroom hours were examined at three bachelor-level degree programs for American Sign Language (ASL)/English interpreting. Research was conducted in three phases: by survey, examination of program syllabi, and interviews. Institutional demographics from a sample comprising 40% of the 40 bachelor-level ASL/English interpreter programs in the United States were gathered by survey in the first phase. From that initial sample, a smaller sample of three institutions (7.5% of the total initial population of 40) was established for the next two phases of research. Requirements for both virtual and in-person contact with the Deaf community were documented in course syllabi from three programs for the academic years 2002/2003 – 2011/2012 and examined for evidence of change. Interviews with program faculty expanded on data found in syllabi. Findings show that requirements for students’ association with the Deaf community, in person, at Deaf events, have declined over a ten-year period. An increase in virtual modes of contact between programs and Deaf community, as well as an increasing use of technology in programs generally, was documented. Indications of fewer opportunities for in-person community contact and a change in approach by programs for facilitating community contact and opportunities to gain cultural competence for their students were identified. Findings are presented to encourage further research and to inform ASL/English interpreter educators seeking to promote cultural and communicative competence among their students.
Committee Member
Elisa Maroney, Amanda R. Smith, Joan Paluzzi
Rights
Western Oregon University Library has determined, as of 6/26/2018, 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 at the email address listed above.
http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/
Language
eng
Date Available
6/11/2013
Type
Text
Identifier
theses/4