1. EURITA Effective Use of Interpreters
Lisbon, Portugal
November 20, 2017 1

2. WORKSHOP OBJECTIVES
To clarify the roles of community interpreters and cultural mediators
To explore the modes of interpretation
To illuminate the ethical considerations of the interpreter session
To illustrate ways in which service providers can manage interpreter encounters

3. INTRODUCTIONS Your Name Your Organization & Title Your Role
Your Languages
Figure 1: Group of people talking. Adapted from pixabay. Retrieved from

4. Interpreter Encounter Role Play 1

5. WHAT IS AN INTERPRETER?
Solicit responses

6. INTERPRETER ROLES AND DEFINITIONS

7. INTERPRETER
The primary function of the interpreter is to facilitate communication between two people who do not speak the same language, without altering or omitting the message.
The interpreter must listen to the speaker, understand and analyze what is said and then transmit the speech in the appropriate form in a different language.
The message must be transmitted in such a manner that the listener can respond as if s/he heard and spoke the source language.
Figure 1: Man interpreting between 2 people. Adapted from the Noun Project. Retrieved from

8. COMMUNITY INTERPRETER
Community interpreting enables people who are not fluent speakers of the official language(s) of a country to communicate with the providers of public services so as to facilitate full and equal access to legal, health, education, government and social services.
A Community Interpreter can be a professional interpreter, bilingual staff member or volunteer.

9. QUALIFICATIONS OF COMMUNITY INTERPRETERS
Be 18 years or older
Demonstrate bilingualism and literacy through language proficiency testing
Have received training in the essential skills and ethics of community interpreting
Figure 1: Diploma. Adapted from the Noun Project. Retrieved from

10. CULTURAL MEDIATOR
Provides supportive services to refugees and asylum seekers with shared ethnicity, religion and language
May serve as an advocate for the client
Host country
Family, work, authority, social values, time, success
Refugee
Cultural Barriers make it difficult for people from different cultures to communicate.
Interpreters must understand both the client’s and provider’s cultures in order to facilitate strong communication.
Cultural Values: family, work, authority, social values, time and success.
Cultural Awareness: Interpreter seeks to develop awareness of his own and other cultures encountered when interpreting.
Cultural Competence:
Providing services across cultures
Knowledge, attitudes and skills needed to mediate cultural differences
Both conscious/ visible and unconscious aspects of culture
Interpreter alerts the parties to the cultural barriers, but allows them to resolve

11. QUALIFICATIONS OF CULTURAL MEDIATORS
Be 18 years or older.
Understand the cultural values of both clients and the host community, including family, work, authority, social values, time and the definition of success.
Have received minimum training in the essential skills and ethics of case management.
Figure 1: Graduation cap. Adapted from Pixabay. Retrieved from

12. TRANSLATOR
Renders written text from one language to another in writing
Must have excellent literacy in both languages
Figure 1: A hand writing with a pencil. Adapted from the Noun Project. Retrieved from
**An interpreter is not necessarily a qualified translator

13. INTERPRETER/ CULTURAL MEDIATOR
When do you need the help of an interpreter versus a cultural mediator?
Allow participants to share their experiences.
Figure 1: Top Hat. Adapted from the Noun Project. Retrieved from
Figure 2: Hat. Adapted from the Noun Project. Retrieved from

14. MODES OF INTERPRETATION
Consecutive
Simultaneous
Whisper
Sight Translation
Summarization
Figure 1: People with arrows above their head. Adapted from the Noun Project. Retrieved from

15. CONSECUTIVE MODE Simplest mode of interpretation
Interpreter waits for speaker to pause before beginning the interpretation
Communication is in short and concise segments
Interpreter controls pace, transmits complete message, including intent, tone, emotion and gestures

16. SIMULTANEOUS MODE
Interpreter transmits the message into the target language at about the same time as the speaker delivers it
Can be whispered or spoken in a normal tone of voice
Usually requires two interpreters (more tiring)
Used for conferences
Special equipment often employed
Requires a high level of skill
Conference and business interpreting sessions are often lengthy, requiring the presence of two interpreters who work consecutively by alternating every hour. The interpreter and speaker communicate through a microphone and headset, thus assuring clarity of transmission. Audience members requiring interpretation also are equipped with headsets. Often, the interpreter is given time to review the written text before the actual interpretation, allowing time for him/her to research unfamiliar terms and concepts. Since these interpreters work in pairs, much of their success depends on their ability to work well together.
Diplomatic interpreters accompany individual or groups of diplomats, politicians and business people as they work in and tour a foreign country. While their primary function is to interpret, in practice, diplomatic interpreters are often called upon to perform escort services such as making travel arrangements, obtaining theater tickets, getting medical assistance, etc.
Conference interpreters work in the simultaneous mode, with their role being restricted to the transmission of a message. Diplomatic interpreters work in both simultaneous and consecutive modes depending on the setting in which they find themselves - for example, interpreting for a presenter in a large group setting may require simultaneous whereas interpreting for two individuals in a meeting may require consecutive. Diplomatic interpreters may intervene to request clarification but do not mediate cultural misunderstandings or represent one party or another in the encounter.
Conference interpreters are certified by a number of organizations including the United Nations, the World Health Organization, the Pan American Health Organization and the U.S. State Department. In Washington, D.C. and surrounding areas, diplomatic interpreters are largely drawn from among those conference interpreters certified by the Department of State.

17. WHISPER INTERPRETATION
Used for a few people in a larger group setting
Interpreter must:
Make sure client can hear without speaking too loudly
Maintain emotion of the message and speaker
Figure 1: Two people whispering to each other. Adapted from the Noun Project. Retrieved from

18. SUMMARIZATION
The full content of the encounter is condensed and not fully transmitted. Not recommended as it does not provide sufficient information or allow for the full meaning of the encounter to be understood.

19. SIGHT TRANSLATION
Interpreter reads document in source language, then rereads it in target language
Document should be no longer than a page and provider should be present
Provider, not the interpreter, is responsible for clarifying information in the document being translated
Requires high skill level, including literacy in both languages
An interpreter should not interpret any of the client’s documents without the provider’s presence. Since it is the provider’s job to explain any contents as the client goes over the document, the provider has to listen while the interpreter is reading and interpreting all parts.
A written translation is different, it requires competence, editing and proof-reading.
Figure 1: Document. Adapted from the Noun Project. Retrieved from

20. PRIMARY MODES FOR COMMUNITY INTERPRETERS
Consecutive
Simultaneous
Sight translation

21. FACILITATING THE INTERPRETER ENCOUNTER

22. Interpreter Encounter Role Play 2
What happened in the second part of the role play to make the session go more smoothly?

23. WHO IS IN CONTROL OF THE INTERPRETER ENCOUNTER?
You, as the provider can take charge to ensure smooth communication
Figure 1: Three people talking. Adapted from Pixabay. Retrieved from

24. PRE-SESSION
A successful encounter begins with an introduction in which the interpreter’s role is clearly established.
Familiarize the interpreter with the appointment before going in, sharing any relevant documents to study ahead of time.
Inform clients of the role of the interpreter and its limitations, confidentiality provisions, and allow the interpreter to explain how he or she works (signals, short sentences, etc).
Figure 1: Two people shaking hands. Adapted from the Noun Project. Retrieved from

25. MANAGING THE ENCOUNTER
Remember that you are in control of the interview, and that relationship and rapport should be established early on between you and the client.
While the interpreter must be acknowledged, introduced, and their professional role defined at each meeting, do not allow the interpreter to become the center of the encounter.
Before you begin, make sure the client understands the interpreter!

26. MANAGING THE ENCOUNTER
Help the interpreter maintain professional distance from the applicant. Ask the interpreter to wait outside the room if you must leave and return.
Be familiar with the interpreter code of ethics, so that you can support the interpreter in upholding them.
Allow the interpreter to take notes. At the end of the encounter, the interpreter should hand these to you.
Do not allow multiple people to talk at the same time.

27. POSITIONING
Take responsibility for placing the interpreter next to and slightly behind the client
An interpreter should be positioned in an unobtrusive manner. In a location where possible, that means on the side of and slightly behind your client. This is not required nor possible in some settings (e.g. classroom). If the provider offers a place or a seat to the interpreter that does not support this manner, it is the interpreter’s duty to choose the correct position. Even if the interpreter’s chair cannot be moved, the interpreter can still position his body turning slightly to the side to prevent direct eye contact with the other parties. Show this in an exercise.
To promote and establish a connection between the provider and the client, the interpreter serves as the conduit, and is not a part of a discussion.
Figure 1: Correct positioning of an Interpreter. Retrieved from Clarity Central Kentucky Interpreting Services

28. SPEAK IN FIRST PERSON
Always speak directly to the client. Do not allow for side conversations between the client and interpreter.
Make sure that the interpreter is working in such a way that this is possible.

29. BE TRANSPARENT
Encourage the interpreter to interpret everything that is said during the encounter.
Do not have side conversations with the interpreter.
If you have to speak to the interpreter about their interpreting or the content of a response, advise the applicant that you are about to talk to the interpreter, and if it’s relevant to the applicant, make sure the content of your side conversation is interpreted.

30. ALLOW FOR CLARIFICATION
Allow the interpreter to intervene with third person to ensure understanding.
Some languages do not have exact equivalents. Your interpreter may need to speak a full sentence to convey a single word. If you suspect your interpreter is adding something to the message, ask them about it.

31. TONE, REGISTER AND PACE
Use language appropriate to the client and situation. Lower the register and speak slowly to ensure understanding.
Try not to ask compound questions-just ask one question at a time.
Carefully pronounce names, numbers, and acronyms.
Allow time for breaks. Your interpreter has a very demanding mental task, and is the only one in the room who will be speaking the whole time.

32. AFTER THE INTERPRETER ENCOUNTER
Encourage the interpreter to leave the room when you leave
Debrief with the interpreter, if necessary

33. SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE

34. INTERPRETER BOUNDARIES AND CODE OF ETHICS

35. INTERPRETER CODE OF ETHICS
Confidentiality
Accuracy
Completeness
Professionalism
Client Self-Determination
1. CONFIDENTIALITY
The interpreter must treat all information learned during the interpretation as confidential, divulging nothing without full approval of the client and his/her provider. The interpreter must respect client confidentiality in all circumstances, including community social situations.
2. ACCURACY
The interpreter must transmit the message accurately, in a thorough and faithful manner, omitting or adding nothing. He/she must give consideration to linguistic variation in both languages and convey both the tone and spirit of the original message. Where there is no linguistic equivalent, the interpreter must understand the relevant concept and say it in a language that is readily comprehensible and culturally appropriate to the person for whom he/she is interpreting.
3. COMPLETENESS
The interpreter must interpret everything said by all parties in the encounter. He/she must inform both clients and providers if the content to be interpreted might be perceived as offensive, insensitive or otherwise harmful to their dignity and well-being.
4. PROFESSIONALISM
The interpreter will conduct him or herself in a professional manner in all interactions with clients and providers. He/she must be punctual, prepared and dressed in an appropriate manner. The interpreter should represent his/her certification(s), training and experience accurately, completely and when appropriate.
5. IMPARTIALITY/CLIENT SELF-DETERMINATION
The interpreter must limit himself to facilitating communication. He/she may not give advice, opinions or treatment options either before, during or after the encounter. He/she should not seek to influence opinions or actions of either provider or client.

36. INTERPRETER CODE OF ETHICS
Confidentiality
The interpreter must treat all information learned during the interpretation as confidential, divulging nothing without full approval of the client and his/her provider. The interpreter must respect client confidentiality in all circumstances, including community social situations.
1. CONFIDENTIALITY
The interpreter must treat all information learned during the interpretation as confidential, divulging nothing without full approval of the client and his/her provider. The interpreter must respect client confidentiality in all circumstances, including community social situations.

37. INTERPRETER CODE OF ETHICS
Accuracy
The interpreter must transmit the message accurately, in a thorough and faithful manner, omitting and adding nothing. He/she must give consideration to linguistic variation in both languages and convey both the tone and spirit of the original message. Where there is no linguistic equivalent, the interpreter must understand the relevant concept and say it in a language that is readily comprehensible and culturally appropriate to the person for whom he/she is interpreting.
2. ACCURACY
The interpreter must transmit the message accurately, in a thorough and faithful manner, omitting or adding nothing. He/she must give consideration to linguistic variation in both languages and convey both the tone and spirit of the original message. Where there is no linguistic equivalent, the interpreter must understand the relevant concept and say it in a language that is readily comprehensible and culturally appropriate to the person for whom he/she is interpreting.

38. INTERPRETER CODE OF ETHICS
Completeness
The interpreter must interpret everything said by all parties in the encounter. He/she must inform both clients and providers if the content to be interpreted might be perceived as offensive, insensitive or otherwise harmful to their dignity and well-being.
3. COMPLETENESS
The interpreter must interpret everything said by all parties in the encounter. He/she must inform both clients and providers if the content to be interpreted might be perceived as offensive, insensitive or otherwise harmful to their dignity and well-being.

39. INTERPRETER CODE OF ETHICS
Professionalism
The interpreter will conduct him or herself in a professional manner in all interactions with clients and providers: courteous, assertive, on time, prepared, well-dressed, and hold a positive attitude. The interpreter should represent his/her credentials, training and experience accurately and completely and when appropriate.
4. PROFESSIONALISM
The interpreter will conduct him or herself in a professional manner in all interactions with clients and providers. He/she must be punctual, prepared and dressed in an appropriate manner. The interpreter should represent his/her certification(s), training and experience accurately, completely and when appropriate.

40. INTERPRETER CODE OF ETHICS
Client Self-Determination
The interpreter must limit himself or herself to facilitating communication. He/she may not give advice, opinions or treatment options before, during or after the encounter. He/she should not seek to influence opinions or actions of either the provider or client.
5. IMPARTIALITY/CLIENT SELF-DETERMINATION
The interpreter must limit himself to facilitating communication. He/she may not give advice, opinions or treatment options either before, during or after the encounter. He/she should not seek to influence opinions or actions of either provider or client.

41. HELP THE INTERPRETER TO MAINTAIN BOUNDARIES
Remember that the interpreter is providing a voice for the client, not managing their case
Remember that an interpreter does not share nor offer his original thoughts
Remember that the client is responsible for his/her choices
Do not ask the interpreter for an opinion
Do not ask the interpreter to fill out client’s paperwork
Allow the interpreter to take notes, but insist that they be given to you after the encounter

42. WHAT SKILLS ARE NEEDED FOR INTERPRETING?

43. INTERPRETER SKILLS: CONVEYING MEANING
Transmit messages accurately and completely without altering the message
Ensure that meaning is conveyed
Use the first person
Interpret 2-3 sentences at a time
Meaning for meaning, instead of word for word
Interpretation, for the most part, is not a word for word endeavor. Understand that your message may require more or less words in the target language, to be communicated efficiently. Some words do not have an equivalent in another language and must be conveyed using a grouping of words that articulate the message.
Further, in other languages, certain words contain the verb, subject and tense all in one. Because of these differences, some conversations may seem too lengthy or too short. This does not necessarily indicate that some things are being left out or added to what you said. Professional interpreters are trained to interpret without adding, omitting or substituting any content.

44. INTERPRETER SKILLS: INTERVENING
Advocating
Mediating
Clarifying
Transmitting

45. INTERPRETER SKILLS: INTERVENING
Transmitting: straight interpreting, conveying messages through first person consecutive interpreting
Clarifying: interpreter interrupts to ensure understanding
Mediating: interpreter addresses cultural barriers to communication
Advocating: interpreter represents client point of view

46. INTERPRETER SKILLS: CLARIFYING
The interpreter’s purpose in clarifying is to identify and clarify a language misunderstanding, such as:
A need to change register
An explanation of acronyms or idiomatic expressions
Need to search for words or phrases to convey meaning

47. INTERPRETER SKILLS: MEDIATING
The interpreter’s purpose in mediating is to identify and clarify a cultural misunderstanding, without letting his/her judgment cloud the information being given.
The interpreter may or may not share the beliefs or behaviors he or she explains. The interpreter may be embarrassed or protective of his/her own culture. These feelings must not interfere in the mediating process.

48. INTERPRETER SKILLS: INTERVENING
Under what circumstances should an interpreter be allowed to intervene?
Only used by an interpreter when a client’s well-being is threatened.

49. CHALLENGES
The client’s family is present during an encounter, and the members are talking among themselves.

50. CHALLENGES
The interpreter appears to be unfamiliar with the terminology required for the encounter. 1

51. CHALLENGES
The client arrives at the appointment with her sixteen year old child to serve as an interpreter. 1

52. Use of trained interpreters
It is NEVER appropriate for a child to interpret.

53. CHALLENGES
The interpreter and client appear to be friends and are talking together when you arrive. 1

54. SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE

55. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Figure 1: Question Marks in bubbles. Retrieved from

56. EVALUATIONS
What is the most helpful thing you discovered in today’s workshop?
What is one suggestion you have for improving today’s workshop?
What would you like to talk or learn more about?