Sign language interpretation training, testing, and accreditation in Asia

Abstract

This paper offers an updated description of the sign language interpretation training, testing, and accreditation in 20 cities/countries in Asia on the basis of published studies, online information, interviews, and questionnaire findings. It was found that most cities and/or countries in Asia only have short, informal training workshops for potential and serving interpreters, and the duration and coverage of training are far from sufficient for training up individuals to become competent interpreters. Only a handful of cities and/or countries have relatively more well-established accredited training programmes at the tertiary level and a nationally recognised certification system. In our interviews, the most frequently cited difficulty confronting sign language interpreters in Asia was a lack of training, which led to frustration on the part of the interpreters, and sub-standard service quality.