• Home
  • About Us
    • Our Staff
  • Services
  • Using Certified Deaf Interpreters
  • Resources
  • Contact Us
  • Contractual Opportunities

Using Certified Deaf Interpreters

All About the Certified Deaf Interpreter

Picture

History in the emergence of CDIs

Certified Deaf Interpreters (CDIs) have been gaining propriety since around 1992.  While the concept of CDIs are not new, research and programs surrounding this field is increasing and reaping positive results.  In some areas of the country, CDI's are mandatory in situations that have anything to do with life and liberty (i.e. serious health concerns, legal, Deaf-Blind, and the like). In 2015, the very first Deaf Interpreters' Conference was held in St. Paul, Minnesota with over 200 attendees.   

What is a Certified Deaf Interpreter?

A Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI) is a specialist who provides interpreting, translation, and transliteration services in American Sign Language and other visual and tactual communication forms used by individuals who are Deaf, hard of hearing, and Deaf-Blind.  In addition to having formal interpreting training, most of the time, the very first language of CDI's is American Sign Language and they were raised in a rich culturally and linguistic environment.   

When to use a Certified Deaf Interpreter?

Using a CDI is very appropriate when it appears that the Deaf consumer has linguistic challenges that prevent them from understanding a traditional sign language interpreter.  Such challenges can stem from language deficits, mental health issues, those identified as intellectually challenged, use a foreign sign language, use idiosyncratic non-standard signs or gestures (home signs), or are Deaf-Blind.  

Why use a Certified Deaf Interpreter?

There are many benefits of using a CDI when presented with  special communication challenges.    These include and are not limited to:  optimal understanding of all parties, efficient use of time and resources, clarification of cultural and linguistic confusion and misunderstanding(s) and arrival at a clear conclusion in the interpreting situation.   

How to request a Certified Deaf Interpreter?

To request a CDI, click on the link below which will take you to the general request form.    If you are not sure whether a CDI is appropriate for your upcoming assignment, please feel free to contact us and we can provide consultation.  
RESOURCES
Picture

Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf 


Picture

Deaf Interpreter Institute

Picture

National Consortium of Interpreter Education Centers


Picture

Request a Certified Deaf Interpreter


Picture
©copyright 2023 ASL Connections, LLC and designed by Anderson Designs
Powered by Create your own unique website with customizable templates.
  • Home
  • About Us
    • Our Staff
  • Services
  • Using Certified Deaf Interpreters
  • Resources
  • Contact Us
  • Contractual Opportunities