IMPORTANCE OF SUBJECT-MATTER DISCOURSE IN SIGN LANGUAGE FOR A DEAF TRANSLATOR

 

1. Subject-Matter Discourse for Deaf translator 

Sign language is based on mere gestures, facial expressions, and body language. It’s a discourse of these three elements between a deaf person and a deaf translator. However, this discourse is operative with its constituents that consist of the grammar of sign language. Most importantly Subject-Matter is integrated into the discourse, occurring in the form of a monologue or a dialogue while conversing. The importance of Subject-Matter Discourse in Sign Language for a Deaf translator is significant to comprehend and convey the actual meaning of the conversation. 

2. Subject Matter Discourse: 

It’s a gist of the job of a Sign Language Interpreter to understand the subject matter of a conversation. The subject matter is described as the central agenda of a conversation. The background of the agenda is well-known by the translator and he/she has the complete acquisition of the subject matter of the conversation to lead it appropriately. 

Moreover, discourse is termed as the written or verbal communication occurring between a listener and a speaker. So, the Importance of Subject-Matter Discourse in Sign Language for a deaf translator depends on understanding the agenda contributes immensely in producing the flow of effective communication. 

3.  Sign Language as a Second Language: 

Hearing People use sign language to communicate with their deaf parents and relatives. These people are named Children of Deaf Adults (CODAs). But with time hearing people other than CODAs entered into the profession of deaf interpreters and translators due to the establishment of sign language interpreting associations. The birth of this profession was rooted in codes of ethics for sign language interpreters and training programs. Hence sign language started to be learning as a second language to build careers.  

4. Discrimination by the deaf to hearing people: 

Interpreters from non-deaf backgrounds are regarded as outsiders as it is assumed that they have null exposure to the culture and discoursal elements of the deaf community. A conflict is always present between the deaf and deaf translator because of the misconception. Both the parties require the help of each other. Deaf Translators are entirely dependent on the deaf to get their culture and worldview to do the job efficiently.  It’s an integral part of their job to perform well while interpreting. 

5. Understanding of Discourse through training programs: 

With the emergence of the deaf translator as a profession and its popularity in social welfare organizations, several training programs are organized to acquire the language skill in a safe environment with result-oriented outcomes. Consequently, Sign language is gaining professional status. Its demand is increasing day by day hence, it is validating the importance of hearing people learn sign language and remove barriers. 

6. Language and Culture Influence: 

Discourse is dependent on language, culture, and context. In spoken language, the discourse analysis is based on utterance that configures the type and nature of discourse. In Effective Sign Language discourse between a deaf and a translator rely on the context of the situation and culture. It conforms to the discourse structure type that counts on narration, information report, explanation, and exposition. Language and Cultural differences hinder the barrier of communication gap between translator and deaf.    

however, subject matter discourse tends to focus on eye gaze, eye blinks, facial expression, and body movements. An interpreter is aware of the importance of subject matter discourse and language shifts in various contexts.  

Conclusion: 

The acquisition of subject-matter discourse has a complete background of the variations in deaf interpreters from CODAs to hearing people working professionally as sign language interpreters. Several hurdles by the own deaf community were placed for the deaf translators to give birth to this profession. However, with the increased demand sign language programs and training are introduced to get the interpreters fully aware of the subject matter discourse in a conversation. Checkout languagers for more unique content.