I am not currently teaching Introduction to Interpreting (ASL3310).
Please note: All information currently available on this site represents work and due dates relevant to a previous semester/course. Please check back during later semesters for updated information on this course. Thank you.The ethics of interpreting
Practice professions both encourage high performance standards and also govern inappropriate behaviors through codes of conduct. At its institution in 1964, the RID proposed a simple code of ethics for its members; the code was revised again in 1978–1979, and yet again in 2005. Let’s discuss the modern evolution of interpreter ethics through the Code of Professional Conduct (2005) and its centrality to the profession of sign language interpreting.
Here are some learning outcomes of which we might want to be aware:
- What was the impetus for the Code of Ethics in 1964? How has it evolved?
- What is the difference between an ontological and deontological framework? What happens to a practice when a code absolutely proscribes what its practitioners are to do?
- What happens to the efficacy of interpreting practice when it is unethical or perceived as unethical?
- Given the changing landscape of interpreting, should we revisit an ethical code for the 2010s and beyond?
Readings/Discussions
Chapter 9 (pp. 143–162), RID CPC Required
RID Code of Professional Conduct (2005) Required
Webpage itemizing the Code of Professional Conduct of the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, approved 2005. This is not found in your text.
Handout (Ethics 2005) Required
The recently updated Code of Professional Conduct of the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, approved 2005. This is not found in your text.
The RID Code of Ethics, Confidentiality, and Supervision Required
Seminal discussion of the breakdown of confidentiality and issues with the proscription of a code in the intepreting profession. This text offers a suggestion of supervision, case conferencing, and discussing interpreting work in a supervisory context.
Fritsch-Rudser, S. (1986). The RID code of ethics, confidentiality, and supervision. Journal of Interpretation, 3, 47 – 51.
Ethical Development: A Sign of the Times for Sign Language Interpreters? (Dean) Required
Dean (re)presents the case for supervision in the professional interpreting field. First proposed in 1986 (Fritsch-Rudser, S. (1986). The RID code of ethics, confidentiality and supervision. Journal of Interpretation, 3, 47 – 51.), supervision is the next step the field needs to take regarding ethical behavior and interpreter health and well-being. Must read.
The Impact of Social Media Interactions on Interpreter Ethics (Butler) Required
Handout (Ethics 1979)
The previous (and most well known) compilation of the Code of Ethics of the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf. This list is also found in your text.
Case Conferencing and Supervision for Interpreters (Dean & Pollard, 2009)
Discusses the concept of case presentation, supervision, and interpreting as a practice profession. From the RID VIEWS, Fall 2009.
Context-based Ethical Reasoning in Interpreting (Dean & Pollard, 2011)
Discusses the importance of seeing ethics decisions in a teleological vs. deontological framework. Critical reasoning = ethical reasoning.
Exploring Ethics: A Case for Revising the Code of Ethics (Cokely, 2000)
Discusses an approach to revising the (then) RID Code of Ethics, changing from a deontological (presecriptive) to teleological (rights/purpose-based) approach.
Satisfaction and Negative Experiences of Deaf Leaders with Interpreters (Forestal)
Professional Behaviors & Dispositions Self Evaluation Form
The purpose of this self-evaluation is to reflect on your own professional behavior and dispositions. Answer questions as you think your peers may perceive you, not as you wish your answers to be. This is not found in your text.