Using Qualified Interpreters Getting the Message Across

What will be covered Activity Quick definitions What is NAATI Levels of accreditation Code of ethics General guidelines for working with interpreters The dangers of using unqualified interpreters

Proverbs/Sayings To make an elephant out of a mosquito (Dutch) There is sunshine after every rainfall (German) When the cat is absent, mice do a circle dance (Bosnian) When among the crows, caw as the crows do (Polish)

Proverbs/Sayings When the dog eats, he doesn't bark, or his food will run away (Polish) Your father wasn't a glazier (Hungarian) to sell oil (Japanese) Sun with teeth (Romanian) Equal children play best (Danish)

Quick Definitions Interpreting: Oral transfer of the meaning of the spoken word from one language to another. Translation: Written conversion of a text from one language to another

NAATI (National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters Setting and maintaining the standards of interpreting and translation in Australia They do not provide translation and interpreting services Defines levels of accreditation for over 50 languages

NAATI Levels of Accreditation Paraprofessional Interpreter (PPI) (formerly known as level 2) This represents a level of competence in interpreting for the purpose of general conversations. Paraprofessional Interpreters generally undertake the interpretation of non-specialist dialogues.

NAATI Levels of Accreditation Professional Interpreter (PI) (formerly known as level 3) This is the first professional level and represents the minimum level of competence for professional interpreting. Interpreters convey the full meaning of the information from the source language into the target language in the appropriate style and register. Interpreters at this level are capable of interpreting across a wide range of subjects involving dialogues at specialist consultations.

Important Note Certain languages have no accreditation available This is due to small applicant and community demand for these languages “Recognition” is the only NAATI credential available in this circumstance

Code of Ethics Professional interpreters are expected to adhere to the following code of ethics… Professional Conduct Confidentiality Competence Impartiality Professional Development

General Guidelines for Working with Interpreters Before Consultation Book the right interpreter for the right language and / or dialect Consider gender issues If possible, plan a consultation with the interpreter Prepare the right equipment for the session

General Guidelines for Working with Interpreters Introduce yourselves Seating arrangements – Triangular or circular where feasible. Maintain eye contact with clients where appropriate. Speak directly to the clients Use short speech segments Speak clearly. Avoid using jargon, slang, idioms or proverbs

General Guidelines for Working with Interpreters Be sure to take breaks during long sessions Never ask interpreters for their opinion of a client(s). Interpreters must be impartial Speaking louder does not help Remember that it is you who conducts a session, not the interpreter

The Dangers of using unqualified interpreters

Breach of confidentiality Misinterpretation Conflict of interest Objectives not being met Legal ramifications