Sign Language Interpreting: Its Art and Science

Sign-Language Interpreting: Its Art and Science is a comprehensive exploration of the practice and research relating to sign-language interpreting. A pleasant conversational style of writing is used to present the problems, the issues, and the options in this field as best they are known today. The text nurtures a rational discourse that will enhance the development of professional interpreting in ways that will satisfy the majority of participants. The reader is taken on a journey from the early days of interpreting, to the professionalization of interpreters, to an examination of past and present models of interpreting. Two new models are introduced that take into account the influence of all participants and environmental factors in a variety of interpreting situations. The business and ethical aspects of interpreting are discussed while focusing on current practice. The text introduces first-time users to sign language and how it affects interpreting. For those knowledgeable about sign-language interpreting, it gathers together a wealth of now-scattered materials. For scholars and researchers, it directs their attention to new areas for study. This is a book intended for all stakeholders.