Video Relay Service Interpreters: Intricacies of Sign Language Access

by Jeremy L. Brunson

Overview

“Signed language interpreting is about access,” states author Jeremy L. Brunson at the outset of his new book, and no manifestation of access for deaf people can be considered more complex than video relay services (VRS). In Video Relay Service Interpreters: Intricacies of Sign Language Access, Brunson delineates exactly how complicated the service can be, first by analyzing sign language interpreting as a profession and its relation to both hearing and deaf clients. He describes how sign language interpreters function in Deaf communities and how regulatory processes imposed by VRS providers can constrain communication access based on each individual’s needs.

Brunson proceeds by acclimating readers to the environment of VRS and how the layout of the typical physical plant alters the practice of interpreting. The focus then falls upon intended VRS users, providing insights into their expectations. Interpreters shared their experiences with Brunson in 21 formal interviews and discussions. Many remarked on the differences between face-to-face interpreting and VRS training, which often runs counter to the concept of relating informally with deaf clients as a way to expand access. This thoughtful, sociological study outlines texts that originate between users and interpreters and how they can be used to develop VRS access. Video Relay Service Interpreters concludes with the implications of VRS interpreting for sign language interpreting in general and suggests where scholarship will lead in the future.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781563684838
Publisher:	Gallaudet University Press
Publication date:	03/31/2011
Series:	Studies in Interpretation , #8
Edition description:	1st Edition
Pages:	216
Product dimensions:	6.10(w) x 9.20(h) x 0.70(d)

About the Author

Jeremy L. Brunson is the Executive Director of the Division of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at Gallaudet University. He worked previously as an applied sociologist and independent consultant. He is also an American Sign Language–English interpreter specializing in legal interpreting. Brunson’s research interests are in the broad area of the sociology of interpreting and live at the intersection of sociology work and the profession, sociology of disability, and critical theory. He has published and presented about video relay service, educational interpreting, the invisible labor deaf people perform, the professionalization of sign language interpreting, and ethics.

Table of Contents

Preface ix

Chapter 1 Toward a Sociology of Interpreting 1

Chapter 2 The Architecture of Access 30

Chapter 3 "VRS Puts Us on Equal Footing with Hearing People," 65

Chapter 4 "We're Providing Access," 82

Chapter 5 Textualizing the "On Call" and "Off Call" Interpreter 107

Chapter 6 Connecting the Dots and Pointing in New Directions 137

Appendix A Methods and Procedures 153

Appendix B Interpreter Certifications 171

Appendix C Letter Seeking Permission from VRS Provider 177

Appendix D Informed Consent Form - Interviews 178

Appendix E Informed Consent Form-Focus Groups 180

Appendix F Letter to Interpreters 182

Appendix G Interview Questions 184

Appendix H Focus Group Questions 185

Bibliography 187

Index 197