Module 1: Introduction to Sign Linguistics
Co-requisite
Module 2: Introduction to Deaf Studies
Schedule
Start Date: 13 March 2021
End Date: 26 June 2021
Alternate Saturdays with Module 2 (break on 3 April)
2pm to 430pm (SGT)
Total contact time: 20 hours ( 8 sessions of 2.5 hours each)
Venue
Online (Zoom)
Module Synopsis
This is an introduction to the major features of languages, to the structure, use, and variation in the sign languages, and sign systems commonly used. Participants will learn about how sign languages from around the world differ, and what properties they share, how sign languages are similar to and different from spoken languages, and how and why sign languages have emerged. Accents and dialects in sign languages will also be explored. Topics include phonology, syntax, word formation, classifiers, depiction, iconicity and gesture as applied to the local sign languages of the participants (SgSL and BIM).
Learning Outcome
At the end of this module, participants should be able to:
- Develop essential understanding of the linguistic features and structures of sign language.
- Use necessary skills required for to use the grammatical structure of sign language as applied to interpreting in their local sign language (SgSL or BIM).
Module 2: Introduction to Deaf Studies
Co-requisite
Module 1: Introduction to Sign Linguistics
Schedule
Start Date: 20 March 2021
End Date: 3 July 2021
Alternate Saturdays with Module 1 (break on 3 April)
2pm to 430pm (SGT)
Total contact time: 20 hours (8 sessions of 2.5 hours each)
Venue
Online (Zoom)
Module Synopsis
This module will show how Deaf people and sign languages are integral aspects of human diversity and how societies have responded to this diversity across different social, temporal and cultural moments and movements. Topics include Deaf history and culture in Singapore and Malaysia and the history and development of SgSL and BIM. Participants will also explore key concepts such as audism, linguistic diversity as well as Deaf Art and Literature applied to the Singapore and Malaysia Deaf community. This in-depth understanding and appreciation of the Deaf community facilitate the sign language interpreter’s reflexivity of allyship role in the community.
Learning Outcome
At the end of this module, participants should be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge and engagement of the multiplicity of Deaf people’s lives within Singapore/Malaysia & internationally.
- Engage in critical inquiry into changing ideological construction of deaf people, sign language, and normalcy from cultural, geographical, sociological & human rights perspectives.
Module 3: Interpreting Techniques for Sign Language Interpreters
Prerequisite
Module 1: Introduction to Sign Linguistics
Module 2: Introduction to Deaf Studies
Co-requisite
Module 4: Professionalism in Sign Language Interpreting
Schedule
Anticipated Start Date: July 2021
Alternate Saturdays with Module 4
2pm to 430pm (SGT)
Total contact time: 20 hours ( 8 sessions of 2.5 hours each)
Venue
Online (Zoom)
Module Synopsis
For sign language interpreters who face a variety of interpreting situations, knowing the right interpreting technique to use can help you give a smoother and more polished performance. However, different situations may require more than one technique, depending on the client and gravity of the interpreting topic.
In this module, you will be taught the different types of interpreting techniques, how you can apply them to their maximum effect, and matching the right technique to fit your client’s interpreting needs. You will examine relevant case studies, complete individual and group assignments and sit for a short quiz at the end of this module.
Objectives:
- Gain a better understanding of basic interpreting techniques: simultaneous & consecutive.
- Learn how to use these interpreting techniques for a variety of interpreting situations.
- Enhance own interpreting repertoire with these techniques.
Learning Outcome
At the end of this module, participants should be able to:
- Apply correct and relevant interpreting techniques for various interpreting situations suitable vocabulary.
- Demonstrate competency in using the taught interpreting techniques for both sign-to-voice and voice-to-sign interpreting.
- Receiving information auditorily, expressing that information simultaneously and incorporating affect, mood and inflection to the message effectively.
Module 4: Professionalism in Sign Language Interpreting
Prerequisite
Module 1: Introduction to Sign Linguistics
Module 2: Introduction to Deaf Studies
Co-requisite
Module 3: Interpreting Techniques for Sign Language Interpreters
Schedule
Anticipated Start Date: July 2021
Alternate Saturdays with Module 3
2pm to 430pm (SGT)
Total contact time: 20 hours ( 8 sessions of 2.5 hours each)
Venue
Online (Zoom)
Module Synopsis
As the Deaf Community is more aware of their rights to access to information and the need for equalization at all spheres in life one will see the surge of demand for Sign Language Interpreters in various settings. A Sign Language Interpreter provides the opportunity for both Hearing and the Deaf to “connect” with one another. (Solow 1981) The new catch words are “equal access” including equal access to information. Interpreters provide a vital role in the process of equalization and making information accessible.
This module provides an overview of the field of Sign Language /English interpretation. It introduces basic theories, principles and processes of interpreting. It provides an introduction to the professional role of interpreting, looking at professional ethics and standards. It will assist students in professional development through various interpreting settings.
It further describes standard practices, employment trends, compensation, and professional business practices in the current job market. The role of the interpreter is fully explored, the public and voluntary sectors are discussed and how Interpreters support community needs. Participants will understand how to apply ethics within assignments, be able to provide professional services to a high standard and achieve the goals of interpreting.
Objectives:
- Participants will have a clear understanding of the professional and ethical standards in interpreting.
- Participants will know and able to describe, explain and be aware of the different modes of settings including process and challenges in the interpreting field.
- Participants will be able to gather resources for personal, academic and professional development.
Learning Outcome
At the end of this module, participants should be able to:
- Relate and apply the ethical and professional problems linked to the role of the interpreter.
- Be aware of the practical aspects of Sign-Language Interpreting including cross-cultural and professional ethics.
