1309, 2023

5 Guidelines to Make the Best Use of ASL Interpreters

The Americans with Disabilities Act ensures that Deaf and Hard of Hearing (HoH) individuals receive equal access to events and programming that their Hearing counterparts enjoy. As a result, organizations throughout Northern Virginia and DC may need a certified ASL translator or interpreter. But what specific responsibilities does an interpreter have? How can you ensure accessibility through an interpreter’s work? An ASL services provider can answer all these questions and…

1708, 2023

3 Types of Educational Interpreting and Their Benefits

Educational interpreters are mandatory in any classroom with students who require hearing accommodations. However, numerous professional interpreting services are available, and each offers unique value and support for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students. Comparing or combining these interpretation types can ensure Deaf students have the same access to academic lessons and resources that their Hearing counterparts enjoy.  HIS Sign Interpreting offers helpful ASL services to schools throughout Ashburn, VA.…

1611, 2022

The “Deaf President Now” Movement

When they hear “civil rights advocacy,” most people think of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his peaceful protests for African American equality. However, the civil rights struggle extends to all marginalized groups, including disabled people’s communities. The Deaf community has a long history of advocacy work, such as its late-1980s activities referred to as the “Deaf President Now” movement. Throughout such efforts, interpreters for the Deaf have played a…

1708, 2022

How Educational Interpreting Can Assist You

Educational interpreters are a crucial part of any collegiate classroom or setting that hosts Deaf individuals. Specifically, interpreters use Hard of Hearing or HoH teaching strategies to make classroom information accessible for Deaf students, spurring them to get involved in academic activities. In doing so, educational interpreters work with mainstream Hearing teachers and Deaf educators to afford equal educational opportunities. HIS Sign is an industry-leading provider of sign language interpreting…

1307, 2022

6 Self-Care Tips for ASL Interpreters

The sign language interpreter business offers a fair share of benefits and challenges. While rewarding, this experience can also be strenuous for your mental and emotional wellbeing. If you are a part of this industry, try taking time out of your day to practice self-care. Doing so can help you to stay refreshed and engaged in what you do. Additionally, turn to HIS Sign Interpreting for a collection of ASL…

1605, 2022

ASL Interpreting 101 for Hearing People

Before employing the services of an ASL interpreter, Hearing individuals should learn the best practices for interpreted interactions and events: careful event preparation, social expectation delineation, and the incorporation of demonstrative communication behaviors. These procedures serve as standards of conduct while also reflecting Deaf culture values. They help make for smooth interactions between Hearing, Deaf, and Hard of Hearing individuals. To ensure your interpreted event turns out successfully, engage ASL…

1603, 2022

Interpreting Services Testing in the DMV

Current and future interpreters must understand the importance of regional and national interpreting standards. These tools ensure that professionals can deliver their services to the widest range of people. In the DMV, our instruments for certifying, measuring, and improving these skills are the Virginia Quality Assurance Screening (VQAS), Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA), and National Interpreter Certification (NIC). To learn more about stipulations for testing in your area, seek a…

2001, 2022

The History of Sign Language and Deaf Communication

For centuries, Deaf people faced harsh oppression and were denied fundamental rights. Some of the earliest discourse on Deaf individuals comes from the Greek philosopher Aristotle, who claimed that Deaf people were incapable of learning and critical thinking. This false and ill-informed belief contributed to the view that the Deaf were “non-persons,” discrimination that prohibited them from buying property, marrying, or securing a job. Fortunately, the tide turned during the…