Video Remote Interpretation: Establishing Access to Post-Secondary Environments for Deaf Students Erica Alley, MA, NIC-Advanced Gallaudet Interpreting Service Association on Higher Education and Disability July 17, 2014

The Presenter Erica Alley, NIC-Adv, Doctoral Candidate Staff Interpreter/Video Interpreting Program Lead Gallaudet University

Today’s Objectives –Define Video Remote Interpreting –List tools and technology for implementing VRI –Identify challenges and solutions to establishing VRI in academic settings

What is Video Remote Interpreting?

VRS vs VRI Video Relay Service Federal Communications Commission Regulations Conversational participants and interpreter are all in different locations Video Remote Interpreting Independent Agency Some conversational participants in the same location

Technology Needed iPad/Tablet Computer Webcam Audio Connection

Where is VRI Used? LegalBusiness Medical

VRI in Today’s College Classroom

Student Experience in Higher Education

What would this look like with an on-site interpreter?

What challenges do you anticipate occurring when using VRI?

–Student language preferences differ –Education Background –Family Background Remember: CARTVRIOn-Site FM System Cued Speech Tactile Close Vision

Test call in the room that is being used for the class Be willing to switch the classroom if needed Try multiple methods of VRI before making a decision –iPad –Laptop –Skype –FaceTime –Google Hangout –PC vs MAC Need a better connection? Hardwire the computer as opposed to using wireless internet Bandwidth/Internet Connection

Best Practices for Working with VRI

Professor: “I’m specifically referring to this region of the U.S.” Interpreter: “Which region are you referring to? I can’t see.” Making Visual Information Explicit

Preparing the Interpreter

Power Point slide Videos used in class Handouts Assignments Access to Blackboard/Banner/Other Software Course Schedule Syllabus Information Shared with Interpreter

Tips for Working with VRI Test video and audio connection Consistent Interpreters Sharing materials Meeting with the professor ahead of time Debriefing with interpreters as needed Verbally explain visual information Begin with speaker name Keep in mind - eye gaze

Group Discussion Are there any other strategies that you have noticed have worked for you? Or horror stories about what has not worked?

Establishing an Inclusive and Equitable Environment

Questions