Expectations of qualified deaf interpreters (DIs)

Abstract

Qualified deaf interpreters (DIs) are starting to enter the sign language interpreting market in Norway. This poses a challenge for both the interpreter profession and interpreting agencies, which have thus far provided work for hearing interpreters offering interpreting services for deaf individuals, not by them. This explorative study shows that more information is needed regarding the way in which DIs influence the interpreting market. At the same time, hearing interpreters see opportunities for their own professional development when collaborating with DIs, specifically for the improvement of their own linguistic and cultural competences.

Keywords

• sign language interpreting
• profession
• interpreter agencies
• qualified hearing interpreters
• qualified deaf interpreters