Virtual vs In Person Interpreting
Explore the different scenarios where on-site interpreting or virtual interpreting is most effective.
Never before in history has our workplace used technology so fluidly. Persevering through a Pandemic allowed the world to learn new technology, trust technology and become more comfortable with technology. The Interpreting field certainly has embraced technology more than ever before. The question of appropriateness of using technology during interpreting interactions is a question that is often asked. Let’s look at the scenarios where onsite or virtual interpreting is most effective and consider the reasons for each.
Onsite interpreting, where you have a Sign Language or spoken language Interpreter arrive to your interaction in person is best for serious situations. Using an in-person Interpreter when life or liberty are at stake is most widely recommended. When an Interpreter can “read” the room, see the whole Consumer to ascertain any body language that should be included in communication, and have the ability to ask questions to ensure clarity, it benefits all parties involved and limits the possibility of a misunderstood communication.
In Michigan, if a Deaf person requests an in-person Interpreter you must accommodate the request. PA 204 The Deaf Person’s Interpreter Act is clear on that matter.
Onsite Interpreters are also best for children or Consumers who have cognitive issues. The Interpreter is best able to monitor the interaction and will more easily assess whether they need to clarify a topic or if they believe the communication is going well.
Virtual Interpreting by video is the best substitute for an in-person Interpreter, even for spoken language. The ability for everyone to see each other is extremely helpful to ensure communication is happening at a high rate of success. Body language is crucial to communication. Seeing the room and activity that is happening also aids facilitation of communication. Virtual Interpreting by video is best for medical, legal and educational settings when an onsite Interpreter is not available.
Virtual Interpreting by phone is the most easily accessible way to obtain an Interpreter, especially since just about everyone has a phone on them. It is cost effective and quick. It is a great solution for front desks, at customer service stations and in areas where the Internet is unavailable and onsite Interpreters are not available.
Phone interpreting has really opened the world of interpreting up. As our communities become more diverse, interpreters of languages not easily accessible in years past are now just a call away.
Any Interpreter either virtual or in person is much better than using a translation tool for people to read communication. Most translation tools available do not have the same success rate as a live Interpreter. Translation tools also do not clarify information helping to ensure comprehension. They don’t look at the persons in the interaction, the area they are in and make communication adjustments. Those programs have no idea there is miscommunication. Interpreters use body language, facial expression, responses and questions to ascertain lack of comprehension and to find out if they need to adjust their communication style. Additionally, some people may not read at a high enough register (have ample knowledge of vocabulary and language) to read effectively, or may not be able to read at all.
If the person has a hearing loss, which crosses all boundaries, an onsite or video Interpreter is best so they can lip read the Interpreter and use the body language of the Interpreter to understand what is being conveyed. (Obviously Deaf people who use Sign Language need an onsite or video Interpreter. Foreign language speakers may be hard of hearing and use lip reading to assist them with understanding language.)
Virtual Interpreting is a great option for areas that do not have a lot of Interpreters. It’s a great back up tool if an unexpected interaction needs to happen. It is economical and quick (you do not have to wait for an Interpreter to arrive). When you are telling someone they have a serious illness or they are in court and their freedom is in jeopardy, onsite Interpreters are your best solution. Overall, an Interpreter is better than a virtual translation.
