Interpreting with DeafBlind People in Michigan

Author

Mitch Holaly, St. Catherine UniversityFollow

Date of Award

6-2020

Degree Type

Action Research Project

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Interpreting Studies and Communication Equity

Department

ASL & Interpreting

First Advisor

Erica Alley

Second Advisor

Terra Edwards

Department/School

Interpreting

Abstract

Through an electronic survey and individual ethnographic interviews, this sociological study examines trends between qualified interpreters in Michigan who do and do not work with DeafBlind people. In addition, DeafBlind Michiganders were interviewed in order to provide crucial insight into the current status of interpreting service provision. Results cover demographic trends, motivations and barriers of interpreters, gaps in skills/knowledge, the supply and demand of interpreters, as well as physical and mental demands of the work. The impact of the unique Michigan regulatory condition, known as the DeafBlind endorsement, is discussed as a potential barrier. Findings can then be used in policy making, training development, and recruitment of interpreters to work with DeafBlind people.

Comments

If alternative formats of any documents are needed, please contact the author at mitchinterpreting@gmail.com.

Recommended Citation

Holaly, Mitch. (2020). Interpreting with DeafBlind People in Michigan. Retrieved from Sophia, the St. Catherine University repository website: https://sophia.stkate.edu/maisce/29