Technology has advanced significantly in recent decades, and the field of American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting is no exception. Technology has revolutionized the way ASL interpreters work and made it easier for people who are deaf or hard of hearing to communicate with the hearing world, from remote interpreting to interpreting devices. 

Communication is an essential part of human life, and technology has played an important role in making it more accessible to people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Technology has become more important than ever before in today’s world, with an increasing demand for effective communication solutions. 

As society becomes more global and interconnected, technology is helping to bridge the gap between people of different cultures, languages, and abilities. In the field of ASL interpreting, technology has created new opportunities for people who are deaf or hard of hearing, allowing them to communicate and participate in events that were previously inaccessible to them.

Understanding the role of technology in ASL interpreting and how it is changing the field is important. Remote interpreting and interpreting devices are two examples of how technology is transforming the way ASL interpreters work.

As technology advances, it is important to stay abreast of new developments and understand how they can be applied to the field of ASL interpreting. This article will look at how technology is being used in ASL interpreting and how it is changing the industry.

REMOTE INTERPRETING

One of the most significant technological advancements in the field of ASL interpreting is remote interpreting. Interpreters can now work remotely, connecting with clients from anywhere in the world, thanks to the rise of video conferencing, phone interpreting, and other online communication tools.

People who are deaf or hard of hearing can now participate in activities that were previously unavailable to them. Remote interpreting has changed the game.

Remote interpreting has several advantages, including flexibility and convenience. Interpreters can work from anywhere and provide interpreting services to clients at any time, regardless of their location. It also saves money by eliminating the need for interpreters to travel to the client’s location, which is especially useful for businesses.

Remote interpreting can be accomplished through a variety of methods, including video conferencing, phone interpreting, and instant messaging. The most popular method is video conferencing, which allows interpreters to communicate with clients in real-time via video and audio.

Another popular method is phone interpreting, which allows interpreters to communicate with clients over the phone while also providing interpreting services in real-time. Instant messaging is a less common method, but it can be useful in some circumstances, such as when clients require interpreting services for written documents or emails.

Remote interpreting is expected to become even more common in the field of ASL interpreting as technology advances.

INTERPRETING DEVICES

The use of interpreting devices has had a significant impact on the field of ASL interpreting. These devices, such as the Sign Language Interpreter (SLI) or Sign Language Translator (SLT), are intended to assist deaf or hard of hearing people in communicating with the hearing world.

They work by instantly translating spoken language into ASL, allowing people who are deaf or hard of hearing to communicate with others without the need for an interpreter, thereby bridging the communication gap.

Handheld devices, smartwatches, and even smartphone apps are examples of interpreting devices. They can be used in a variety of settings, including business meetings, classrooms, and public spaces. They are intended to be user-friendly, with simple interfaces that make them accessible to people of all ages and abilities.

Interpreting devices can be especially useful in certain situations or when interpreting services are required quickly.

In an emergency, for example, interpreting devices can provide quick and accurate translations, allowing deaf or hard of hearing people to communicate with emergency services. They are also beneficial in remote locations.

Interpreting devices have grown in popularity in recent years, and their popularity is expected to grow further as technology advances.

IMPORTANCE OF PROFESSIONAL TRAINING

As technology advances, it is important that technology-based interpreters receive professional training to ensure they have the skills and knowledge to provide accurate and effective interpreting services.

Professional training can assist technology-based interpreters in developing the necessary skills. Professional training, for example, can assist technology-based interpreters in developing the ability to understand the various grammar structures of ASL, which is necessary for providing accurate interpreting services.

Professional training can also assist technology-based interpreters in understanding the cultural context in which ASL is used, which is necessary for providing effective interpreting services.

Professional training can also assist technology-based interpreters in comprehending the limitations of interpreting devices and effectively employing them. Professional training, for example, can assist technology-based interpreters in understanding the limitations of analyzing devices in terms of accuracy and reliability, as well as how to use them effectively in various situations.

Professional training is also necessary to ensure that technology-based interpreters have the knowledge and skills needed to provide interpreting services in a variety of settings, such as business meetings, classrooms, and emergency situations.

FINAL THOUGHTS 

The field of ASL has been transformed by technology. Remote interpreting and interpreting devices have made life easier for deaf and hard of hearing people. However, it is important to remember that technology is not a substitute for human interpreters and that both human and technology-based interpreters are required to ensure that everyone has access to effective communication.

The field of ASL interpreting continues to evolve and improve as technology advances, making communication more accessible to all. So, raise a glass (or a sign) to technology for making communication more accessible to everyone!

For those looking for professional and accurate interpreting services, Unspoken Language Services offers a wide range of interpreting services including remote interpreting, in-person interpreting, and interpreting devices to suit all needs.