1. The influence of Culture on communication
Chapter 2

2. Definitions of culture
The meaning for the term “culture” expands as the culture changes
It is a dynamic (ever-changing) value system of learned attitudes with assumptions, convention beliefs and rules that permit members of a group to relate to one another and the world.”
A Deaf sociologist & researcher, Marie Philip (yes, with one “L”) divides culture into 3 schema subsets (complete the activity in Study Guide # 2 – Page 10, Question 2):
Material objects used in a traditional way according to a norm in society
Behavioral rules that are cultivated (taught/learned)
Cognitive expectations that are developed on an intuitive level

3. The role of culture
Shapes societal thinking / inseparable from language
Influence Social interaction (language and behavior) / Standards (Ex. Amistad video clip)
Puts worth or value on concepts such as (see additional examples in the textbook):
Birth order
Economic status
Can promote individualism or collectivism (Note Fig. 2.1 pages 40-43
Defines identity / place of belonging / norms (time, accomplishment, business, interaction, etc.)
Emphasize similarities / differences (See Fig. 2.2 page 47) Ex. Ways of getting attention
Empower a person to live a particular way (but can experience cultural conflict) pp

4. Interpret “should” or “almost”

5. Why it is important for interpreters to understand cultural differences
Effective communication / expectations / differences / mediation
Avoid insensitive comments / watch for cross-cultural dynamics (habits/ways of thinking)
Prevent judgmental reactions / misunderstandings
Appropriate reflect the Deaf and hearing party’s language, culture and membership (and not solely that of the interpreter, which will still have some influence) to the interpretation process
Awareness increases about conscious and unconscious allegiance(s) and the impact on interpersonal communication
Adapt to identify and represent various cultural frames (mindsets) & filters (rules)