[programName=Interpreting Studies: Theory, B.S.]

Learning Outcomes

[outcomes]

The Bachelor of Science in Interpreting Studies: Theory is an online program. Given the goals of the program in terms of outreach and the push to online from external circumstances, the faculty have determined that the program will be online until such time as there are additional resources to open an in-person cohort as well.

We believe there are real-life benefits to learning online, particularly for a future interpreter. There are many skills and abilities that you will have the opportunity to practice in the online learning environment that will be directly applicable to the real-world interpreting experiences, for example:

Local Community Engagement

We value and want to strengthen the connection between you and your local community. You were introduced to the Deaf community where you live, and investing there will allow for increased connections long term as you launch your career.

Schedule and time management

Being an interpreter, particularly a freelance interpreter, requires one to be self-directed, and independently motivated to pursue work, schedule it, arrive to it, and settle it (billing & communication with hiring party as warranted). Being responsible for the timing of your energy and work as a student will support your development of these self-directed skills.

Use of technology

The incorporation of technology has been an ever-increasing part of being an interpreter. However, with the global pandemic of 2020-present, the work has moved online in ways that will not be reversed. Thus gaining experience and developing skills with technological use of zoom, video connecting, chat functions, etc. are critical to the future interpreter. Being connecting synchronously and asynchronously in your schooling will equip you in pivotal ways to jump into the realities of interpreting work at the outset of your career.

Intentional and transparent communication practices

Being online, and working with classmates and faculty from across the nation requires intention and transparent communication to complete group projects, negotiate expectations, and collaborate for various aspects of the development process. This is not unlike teaming with colleagues in the world of interpreting, whether in person or from a distance. There is also always need to negotiate expectations with co-interpreters, consumers, and hiring parties. Practicing these skills in your learning environment will give you an advantage as you embark on your career, having skills and attitudes toward communication that will have a positive impact on your community.

Collaboration across time zones, life experiences, and ways of connecting

Given that interpreting is largely about connection – connecting people to one another, connecting individuals to ideas and experiences, and connecting people to ideas – the work you put in during your learning will directly impact your ability to create and contribute positively to the field in which you will work upon program completion.

Online coursework will use Canvas for course information and communication. Additionally, you will see below a distinction between optional synchronous opportunities versus synchronous requirements. This means that, though they are online, there will be real-time (synchronous) components to attend as a part of your learning.