Introduction to Interpreting

Introduction to Interpreting is a practical and theoretical introduction to interpreting in community settings (health care, human services, education, the legal system, etc.). The course is taught in English with some bilingual practice activities. We will use a number of different readings, videos, and audio presentations as a basis for our discussion of supposedly "theoretical" (but actually important real-life) topics, including interpreter ethics and ethical decision making, interpreting models, and professional standards of practice.

You will complete readings in advance, and then we will have discussions/forums and do other activities and assignments that will help to reinforce what you have read. You will also learn how to develop practical (preinterpreting) skills in order to improve your accuracy and techniques for managing the flow of communication when interpreting. You will do some of these activities bilingually, although you will not be formally assessed on your work in your second language. This course will involve quite a lot of group work, mostly done over the phone. This is a great opportunity to improve your spoken communication skills and to get to know other working and future interpreters.

Sample textbook: Fadiman, Anne. The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down.