Interpreters Academy || Interpreter Training Program
Community interpreting is a growing profession that targets the sectors of health care, education and human and social services. In the
past, family and friends used to interpret in these settings. Today, federal civil rights legislation, national ethics and standards for
interpreters, hospital Accreditation agencies and many state and municipal laws endorse or promote the use of qualified interpreters, but
the journey is still a long way to go.
One of the fundamental skills of medical translators, interpreters and bilingual providers is to know and understand the terminology used by health care professionals. It is necessary that they are familiar with the words’ basic components in English as much as in their second language. During these two days participants will learn about the basic components of English medical terminology, and how to use them to construct the meaning of such medical terminology. The program introduces most common prefixes and suffixes, as well as roots that are related to the human anatomy. In addition, this intensive workshop facilitates an overview of the main human biological systems and common conditions, diagnostic procedures and treatment that relate with them. This workshop is facilitated in English and is especially geared toward translators, interpreters and non-native English healthcare workers. It is language neutral.
Mastering the consecutive mode is critical for medical interpreters, whether beginner or advanced. This session will provide practice in the
component parts to consecutive interpreting (active listening, analyzing content, delivery) and then help participants identify their skill
levels. Through series of targeted activities, participants will better understand their individual strengths and weaknesses and develop
specific strategies for improving their consecutive interpreting.
Have you given up on note-taking during consecutive interpreting? The appropriate use of notes can greatly enhance an interpreter’s
performance in medical and community interpreting settings. The trick is learning when and how to take notes to facilitate better
communication. This workshop will cover the proper role and purpose of note-taking in consecutive interpreting, and provide ample
practice time for incorporating this skill into daily interpreting assignments, including: 1) How to structure notes; 2) Symbols and how to
use them; and 3) When and what to take notes on.
Simultaneous interpreting is typically not taught to medical interpreters Certification. Yet, a recent study shows that simultaneous is the most
frequently used mode of interpreting across all sectors and one of the two national medical certification tests includes simultaneous in the
exam. This session will provide beginning and practicing interpreters a clear road map to developing solid simultaneous interpreting skills
in community settings. Participants will be introduced to the correct sequence for learning simultaneous through hands-on exercises and
practice, including practicing with portable simultaneous equipment. Tips for interpreting simultaneously in “whisper” mode will also be