Language Deprivation: Intro to Cognition and Atypical Language by Andria Alefhi

Interpreting accurately and faithfully is more than translating content via words. It is also ensuring an equal experience for both Deaf and hearing clients in the communication dyad. This balance can be affected when Deaf clients do not have a solid ASL language base due to experiential, language or cognitive deprivation. The nature or purpose of the communication is also a key element. In situations where language competence is evaluated by hearing professionals unfamiliar with Deaf experiences and ASL, could a lack of transparency cause benefit or harm? This workshop is an introduction to understanding language and cognition while recognizing how a client’s cognitive skills and life experiences affect the interpreting process. This workshop is in ASL without voice interpretation and is for working interpreters with a minimum of 3 years experience. We strongly recommend attending the workshop on your laptop and not a phone for a better viewing experience.