Certified Deaf Interpreting: Your Top 5 Questions Answered

In many situations, Certified Deaf Interpreters (CDIs) play a crucial role in ensuring effective and inclusive communication. Many hearing individuals are not familiar with CDIs and questions often arise regarding their role, function, and the benefits of their services. If you’re from a business, organization, or agency seeking interpretation services, understanding the fundamentals of CDIs is essential.

What is a Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI)?

A Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI) is a professional who works in collaboration with a hearing sign language interpreter to facilitate effective communication between Deaf individuals and hearing individuals. While sign language interpreters primarily rely on spoken language and sign language skills, CDIs have an additional level of expertise in working with Deaf individuals who may have language barriers, unique cultural backgrounds, or complex communication needs.

CDIs play a crucial role in situations where the Deaf individual may have a more challenging time understanding or expressing themselves. They provide valuable support by enhancing the interpretation process, adapting signs or interpreting techniques, clarifying messages, or using visual aids to ensure accurate and meaningful communication.

What does a Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI) do?

A Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI) has a range of responsibilities that revolve around facilitating effective communication between Deaf individuals and hearing individuals. Here are some of the key tasks and roles of a CDI:

1. Communication Enhancement: CDIs work alongside hearing sign language interpreters to enhance communication between Deaf and hearing individuals. They may clarify and expand on the interpretation provided by the sign language interpreter to ensure accurate understanding.
2. Language Adaptation: CDIs have expertise in adapting signs, gestures, or communication strategies to meet the specific needs of the Deaf individual. They may modify or create signs to convey concepts that may not have direct equivalents in sign language.
3. Cultural Mediation: CDIs serve as cultural mediators between Deaf and hearing communities. They are knowledgeable about Deaf culture, customs, and unique communication norms, and they help bridge any cultural gaps that may exist during interactions.
4. Visual Aids: CDIs may use visual aids or props to support communication. They may employ objects, diagrams, drawings, or written text to clarify complex concepts or abstract ideas.
5. Deaf Individual Advocacy: CDIs advocate for the needs and preferences of the Deaf individual they are working with. They ensure that the communication process is respectful, inclusive, and tailored to the specific requirements of the individual.

When is a Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI) needed?

If you are unable to find an interpreter who is proficient in the specific sign language requested, such as French Sign Language for example, you can utilize a Certified Deaf Interpreter. CDIs provide valuable support when there is a lack of availability of interpreters who specialize in a particular sign language.

In such cases, the CDI can facilitate communication by using their advanced sign language skills, cross-cultural knowledge, and ability to adapt signs and interpretation techniques. Although they may not be fluent in the specific sign language requested, their expertise in working with Deaf individuals and their understanding of interpretation principles is still valuable in bridging the communication gap.

CDIs are also often employed when the subject matter of the event or meeting involves complex or technical content. This can include legal proceedings, medical consultations, scientific conferences, technical trainings, or any situation where specialized terminology or concepts are used. CDIs, being Deaf themselves, possess a deep understanding of Deaf culture and can effectively convey the nuances and intricacies of such content.

CDIs are also called upon in high-stress or emotionally charged situations, such as courtrooms, counseling sessions, or emergency situations. They are skilled in managing the emotional intensity of these environments, and their expertise helps ensure accurate interpretation.

Can a Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI) provide interpreting services remotely?

Many Certified Deaf Interpreters (CDIs) provide video remote interpreting services by utilizing video conferencing platforms that support high-quality video and audio transmission. The Deaf individual, hearing sign language interpreter, and CDI can join the conference call, enabling real-time visual communication and interpretation.

Collaborative tools and technology enable the CDI to see the hearing sign language interpreter and the Deaf individual, facilitating effective communication and interpretation, even at a distance. When working with a CDI remotely, it’s essential to ensure a stable internet connection, clear audio and video quality, and appropriate privacy and security measures for sensitive or confidential conversations

How does using video remote services (VRI) with a Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI) work?

When utilizing video remote interpreting (VRI) services with a Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI), the process typically involves the following steps:

1. Requesting CDI Services: The individual or organization in need of interpretation services submits a request for a CDI. They specify their preference for a CDI due to the specific communication needs of the Deaf individual involved.
2. Providing Helpful Materials: Resources and visual aids help to portray meaning and context. Providing prep materials to the CDI and hearing sign language interpreters can help them prepare for the session and also help them to communicate effectively throughout the VRI session.
3. Connecting to the VRI Platform: The Deaf individual, along with the hearing sign language interpreter, connects to the VRI platform using compatible devices such as computers or tablets. The CDI also joins the platform remotely using their own device.
4. Communication Setup: The CDI acts as the primary intermediary between the Deaf individual and the hearing interpreter. The hearing interpreter facilitates communication between the CDI and the hearing individuals.
5. CDI’s Role: The CDI observes the hearing sign language interpreter’s interpretation and provides additional support as necessary. They may offer clarifications, adaptations, or expansions to the Deaf individual to ensure accurate and culturally appropriate communication.
6. Collaborative Communication: The sign language interpreter and the CDI work together in real-time to optimize communication. They maintain continuous collaboration through video, coordinating interpretation efforts to provide the most effective and accurate communication experience for the Deaf individual.

Need to request a Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI)?

Whether it’s collaborating with sign language interpreters, supporting individuals who don’t know sign language, or navigating the challenges of specific sign languages, CDIs are dedicated to ensuring accurate and meaningful communication for all involved parties. Their commitment to inclusivity and their expertise in fostering understanding make them indispensable allies in creating an inclusive society.