Interpreter Accommodation Guide

Mohawk College recognizes that Interpreters play an important role in the academic success of students who are Deaf, deafened, or hard of hearing. Mohawk College adheres to the guidelines put in place by the College Committee on Disability Issues (CCDI). For more information please see Disability Issues.

Process of Having an Interpreter in Class

• At the beginning of each semester, allow the students who are Deaf, deafened, or hard of hearing the choice to introduce and explain the role of an Interpreter in the classroom
• Maintain the same expectations for students who are Deaf, deafened, or hard of hearing that you have for all students
• When addressing a student who is Deaf, deafened, or hard of hearing, speak directly to and facing him/her. Avoid using phrases addressed to the Interpreter. The Interpreter will interpret what is being said/signed
• Avoid turning your back on the student while you are speaking
• The interpreting process can only accommodate one person speaking at a time. Monitor class interactions and discussions making sure that everyone speaks clearly and in turn
• To accommodate the student's visual needs, the Interpreter will position themselves close to the instructor, the board, and/ or multimedia equipment
• When captioned media is used, the Interpreter may still need to provide an interpretation for the purpose of full comprehension

What Else Can Instructors Do

• Try to incorporate visual aids and look for closed-captioned videos/movies
• Repeat questions originated by students in the class at large, rewording for clarity when necessary
• Interpreters will require all materials (course outline, textbooks, notes, list of videos and their transcripts, etc.) in advance
• To ensure continuous provision of services, please consult with Accessible Learning Services, before any proposed schedule changes
• Please ensure that you are familiar with the student’s Accommodation Letter
• Should you require interpreting services for any other student-related situation (e.g, course seminars, trips), please contact Accessible Learning Services in advance
• If the student has not arrived within 20 minutes of the start of the scheduled class, the Interpreter will leave
• If concerns arise regarding interpreting services, please speak with the classroom Interpreter and consult with Accessible Learning Services