Do I need to do anything differently when an ASL Interpreter is present for an in-person class?

When using an interpreter to speak with a person who is D/deaf or hard of hearing, remember to speak directly to the person, not to the interpreter. The interpreter is not part of the conversation and is not permitted to voice personal opinions or enter into the conversation.

Face the person who is D/deaf or hard of hearing and speak to them in a normal manner. Do not make comments to the interpreter that you do not intend to have interpreted to the D/deaf or hard-of-hearing person, even if the person’s back is turned.

Remember that the interpreter is a few words behind the speaker. Please give the interpreter time to finish before you ask questions so that the D/deaf or hard-of-hearing person may also ask questions or join in the discussion.

Whenever possible, please permit only one person to speak at a time during group discussions, as it is very difficult for an interpreter when several people are speaking at once. It may be beneficial to ask the class to allow a brief pause between speakers to permit the interpreter to finish the previous statement before the next speaker begins.

In classes in which there is a great deal of classroom participation, it is helpful if the students in the class raise their hands and wait to be called upon before speaking. This allows the interpreter and the D/deaf or hard-of-hearing student time to identify who is speaking before proceeding with the interpreted statement.

Speak clearly and in a normal tone when using an interpreter. Do not rush through a lecture. If the interpreter does not understand or did not hear what was said, they may ask the speaker to slow down or restate the information given.

Allow time to study handouts, charts, or overheads. A person who is D/deaf or hard of hearing cannot watch the interpreter and study written information at the same time. If at all possible, please provide the student with these materials in advance so they may be reviewed ahead of time.

Be sure that the interpreter is within a clear line of sight and has good lighting. If the room situation requires darkening the room to view slides, videotapes, or films, auxiliary lighting may be necessary so that the D/deaf or hard-of-hearing person can see the interpreter.