The Art of ASL Interpreting

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ASL interpreting is a complex, dynamic process that facilitates communication between Deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing individuals. Professional interpreters work between American Sign Language (ASL) and English while considering meaning, context, intent, culture, and the communication needs of everyone involved.

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Professional ASL interpreting:

• Facilitates effective communication between Deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing individuals

• Bridges linguistic and cultural differences between ASL and English

• Requires interpreters to convey meaning, intent, tone, and context rather than simply individual words or signs

• Draws on advanced linguistic, cognitive, cultural, and interpersonal skills

• Requires continued learning and professional development throughout an interpreter’s career

What It Takes to Be an ASL Interpreter

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Professional interpreting requires much more than fluency in American Sign Language. Interpreters continually develop the knowledge, judgment, and skills necessary to work effectively across a variety of environments.

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Professional interpreters need:

• Strong proficiency in both American Sign Language and English

• The ability to understand and accurately convey meaning, intent, tone, and register

• Linguistic, cognitive, cultural, and interpreting process skills

• Physical and mental stamina to manage the demands of interpreting assignments

• Professional judgment and a strong commitment to confidentiality and ethical practice

• Specialized knowledge appropriate to the settings in which they work

• A commitment to ongoing training, professional development, credentialing, and skill growth