vcc.ca
INTR 1000: Introduction to Sign Language Interpreting
Effective date
September 2026
Department
Sign Language Interpretation
School
Arts and Sciences
Description
This course is an introductory look at the field of professional sign language interpreting. It is designed for students who are considering interpreting as an area of study and a career. Students will examine the roles, responsibilities, work settings, and ethical considerations of sign language interpreters. They will also be introduced to the history and evolution of the profession, and to credentialing processes. Students will reflect on the requisite attributes and core competencies of effective interpreters to consider their personal suitability to an interpreting career.
Credits
1.0
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
None
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Describe the roles, responsibilities, and work settings of professional sign language interpreters.
- Identify core interpreter competencies and requisite personal attributes.
- Summarize the history and evolution of the sign language interpreting profession.
- Identify the processes by which interpreters gain credentials.
- Outline basic ethical considerations and challenges faced by interpreting.
- Assess their personal strengths, gaps, and readiness to pursue an interpreting career.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
None
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 15
Total Hours: 15
Total Hours: 15
Instructional Strategies
Interactive lectures, group discussions, and reflective writing
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Passing grade
B- (68%)
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Quizzes/Tests |
30 |
Two short answer quizzes |
|
Reflect |
45 |
Assessment and self-reflection on interpreter competencies and attributes |
|
Assignments |
25 |
Ethical decision making scenario(s) |
Course topics
- - Work and responsibilities of professional sign language interpreters - Settings where sign language interpreters work - Core interpreter competencies - Personal attributes of effective interpreters - History of the profession and shifts in philosophical frame - Credentialing processes for sign language interpreters (in BC/Canada) - Guiding ethical principles of the profession - Examples of ethical challenges faced by interpreters - Awareness and examination of one's readiness and suitability for profession
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.