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.Physical factors of interpreting
In the framework of an interactive model of interpreting, an interpreting has many physical limitations or ‘demands.’ Let’s learn about constraints and demands on the physical component of interpreting.
Here are some bullet points/learning outcomes of which we might want to be aware:
- What constraints occur in the physical domain of interpreting?
- Does my body suffer stress when I interpret? Where?
- How do I reduce possibilities of injury, stress, and other physical limitations?
Readings/Discussions
Chapter 4 (pp. 45–56) Required
Application of Demand-Control Theory to Sign Language Interpreting: Implications for Stress and Interpreter Training (Dean & Pollard) Required
Read pp. 1–8, 12–13. This seminal work in the DC-S theory framework introduces various types of demands—linguistic, environmental, interpersonal, and intrapersonal—and discusses their impacts on interpreter environments and psychology.
Preventative Exercises Required
A variety of preventative exercises that interpreters (or anyone with potential overuse syndrome symptoms) can use.
The Occupational Health and Safety Guide for Sign Language Interpreters Highly recommended
Fairly comprehensive writeup outlining the hazards of interpreting environments, occupational health and safety risks, and injuries related to interpreting work. Similar poster/presentation version here sponsored by AVLIC (Canada’s RID) and Ryerson University. (More of Woodcock and Fischer’s excellent work on interpreter injury at https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ergon.2012.03.003. Access required.)
“Cumulative Motion Injuries” (RID, 1996)
“Self Care” (RID, 2007)
RID’s official position papers on Cumulative Motion Injuries (CMI) or Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI): information about, types of, and prevention of various injuries.