Compass Interpreter Training for Codas
If you grew up in a Deaf family, you may already know ASL and Deaf culture. Our Coda-designed training will help you enhance your skills and navigate into an interpreting career.
Interpreter training for heritage ASL users
Are you a Coda? So are the Sorenson interpreters who developed the Compass program — an alternative to traditional interpreter training for nearly fluent heritage ASL users to build on their familiarity with sign language and Deaf culture.
Requirements
You don’t need to pay tuition, but you need access to a computer with a webcam, reliable internet, and video recording capabilities (phone, tablet, computer).
Program length
Compass program participants commit to an individualized six-month program combining online ASL interpreter training and 1:1 mentoring.
Compass Interpreter Training Program Components
ASL Language Development shapes your skills and abilities in ASL and prepares you for a career in ASL interpreting. You’ll develop skills through assignments and live feedback from Deaf mentors.
ASL history
Learn the background, evolution, and linguistic features of ASL.
Social context
Deepen your understanding of Deaf culture, power dynamics, and equity.
Group sessions
Discuss features of ASL and interpreting process.
Coda identity
Better understand yourself as a Coda navigating American cultures.
Interpreting Theory and Application offers a theoretical framework for interpreting work that builds from your unique foundational experiences. You’ll explore the application of these frameworks in live hands-on opportunities.
Interpreting scenarios
Strategies for translation, consecutive, and simultaneous interpreting cases.
Processing models
Learn and practice multiple methods of interpreting processing.
Cultural differences
Develop culturally responsive, ethical decision-making skills.
Support and application
Hone your skills and insights in a group environment tailored to heritage language users.
Interpreting Opportunities and Career Development supports your entry into the interpreting profession and sets you up for success with career development and guidance on professional interpreting ethics.
Observation
Watch professional interpreters for language, technique, and decision-making.
Coda mentoring
1:1 meetings with Coda mentor to review goals, self-analysis, and feedback.
Mock interpreting
Interpret videos and live sessions and self-analyze for growth opportunities.
Next steps
Explore professional interpreting options with guidance and resources for your career.
Resources
Resources for heritage ASL interpreting learners
Sign up for Compass
Need to contact us about Sorenson Interpreting services? Complete this form or use the information shown here. If you need VRS or CaptionCall, click the tabs directly above.
In the Compass program, heritage sign language users turn their knowledge of ASL and understanding of Deaf culture into a meaningful interpreting career.
Or email us at [email protected]
