Online Workshop: The Aided Community

The Aided Community: Presented by Andria Alefhi

Workshop Description:

Much of interpreter training and practice emphasizes language processing but little focus is given to the actual work of hearing. This workshop explores basic principles of sound mechanics, how that knowledge benefits hearing interpreters as well as Deaf clients and teams, and understanding how various factors that affect our hearing affect our cognitive processing. Also discussed are Deaf clients who wear hearing aids and how interpreting needs are shaped by a more multi-modal approach. Knowledge is applied through the lens of the presenter who has high frequency hearing loss. Participants will learn techniques to identify and minimize ‘false hearings’ and develop a checklist for maximizing hearing while working in various community settings. Special attention is given to interpreters with hearing loss looking to share and compare challenges and techniques. Participants will identify how to tailor their interpreting to match those utilizing dual modalities.

Presenter Bio:

Andria Alefhi has a Bachelor's in Speech and Hearing Science and a Master's Degree in Early Childhood Special Education. After teaching hearing and Deaf students, she realized that interpreting was a better career match. She has been a freelance certified interpreter since 2003. The degrees and combined work experience has informed her interpreting work, where she does a wide variety of community interpreting, including VRS. She most enjoys the challenge of Deaf immigrants and working with CDIs. Her workshops are Interpreting the Job Interview and the Aided Community. She lives in NYC and loves volunteering, travel, and yoga.

https://zaboosh.com/pages/the-aided-community