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Rethinking sign language interpreting: a broader perspective on ‘access’

In Denmark, we often discuss sign language interpreting. And often with great concern, whether it is about the number of sign language interpreters available, the quality of the interpreting provided, or the way sign language interpreting services are funded, booked, and structured. It is widely accepted that sign language interpreting is important for ensuring deaf people’s access in society. But is sign language interpreting the only solution? That was the topic of the Danish Deaf Associations membership magazines conversation with dr Maartje De Meulder (University of Applied Sciences Utrecht) and dr Hilde Haualand (OsloMet).
6. december 2023

Over the years, extensive research has been done into various aspects of sign language interpreting, from the training of sign language interpreters, to the quality of sign language interpreting, the numbers of sign language interpreters, and so on. However, researchers Maartje De Meulder and Hilde Haualand want to look at it differently. “We want a broader perspective on sign language interpreting,” Hilde says. They look at sign language interpreting on three different levels: micro, meso, and macro levels. This helps to understand sign language interpreting as a system rather than an isolated activity.

While giving presentations about this topic, Hilde and Maartje have noticed that many people were surprised to learn that a system exists. “Many have not thought about it before in this way,” Maartje says.