Service-learning: recentering the deaf community in interpreter education

Area of Science:

• Deaf Studies
• Interpreter Education
• Curriculum Development

Background:

• Interpreter education programs are shifting from stakeholder focus to academic emphasis.
• This shift necessitates re-evaluating program structures to include community needs.
• The Deaf community's perspective is crucial for relevant interpreter training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the recentering of the Deaf community in interpreter education.
• To implement and assess a curriculum prioritizing Deaf community needs.
• To integrate community-based learning into ASL/English Interpreting programs.

Main Methods:

• Developing stand-alone service-learning courses within an ASL/English Interpreting program.
• Implementing a curriculum focused on community-based transformational learning.
• Distinguishing service-learning pedagogy from traditional practicum and internship models.

Main Results:

• Successful implementation of new service-learning courses in interpreter education.
• Demonstrated progress in recentering the program around Deaf community needs.
• Integration of program strategic planning with university's community engagement goals.

Conclusions:

• Service-learning pedagogy effectively recenters interpreter education towards the Deaf community.
• Curriculum development must actively involve and prioritize the Deaf community.
• Community-based learning enhances the relevance and impact of interpreter training programs.