Presented at the 2022 Summit

Tools for Interpreting in the Deafblind Community

0.3 CEUs, PS

It has been estimated that as much as 90% of communication is non-verbal. Our body language and facial expressions all add meaning to our expressions. ASL, to a greater extent, uses non-manual morphemes, spatial references and many other visual tools to convey information. How can this non-manual information be conveyed to the Deafblind? In this workshop, we will unpack the linguistic divergence between Visual ASL (VASL) and Tactile ASL (TASL). Participants will learn five primary techniques to modify sign production to DeafBlind consumers using Tactile and/or ProTactile (PTASL) modalities. Applying these techniques in our work will provide the Deafblind with equal access to semantically rich content, increasing opportunities for fulfilling interactions and empowerment.  This workshop will provide insights and will guide our interactions in an appropriate and culturally competent manner. Those insights include how to approach DeafBlind persons and how to ask for and honor preferences. Key terms LV, CV, CN, SSP, TASL and PTL will be explained. Understanding their world from a Deafblind perspective will enhance our interpersonal relationships and extension our interpreting with the DeafBlind.

Workshop Curriculum

  1. 1

    • Welcome

    • Workshop Handouts
  2. 2

    • Workshop

    • Quiz

Reviews from The Summit

Average Rating

4.7/5.0The activity provided opportunities to develop skill and/or awareness.

4.7/5.0The learning materials used were effective and complimented the goals of the activity.

4.6/5.0This activity will contribute to my professional growth.

4.7/5.0The instructor interacted with the participants in a professional manner.

  • Summit Attendee

    Great job and techniques for modifying signs for a more accurate interpretation for Deafblind consumers. Will definitely use this in my local area.

  • Summit Attendee

    I learned the differences in TASL, ProTactile, VASL & CV. Using CACD is modern for Role Shifting. Learned to say DeafBlind not Deaf/Blind or Deaf-Blind. This workshop really got my wheels turning and has made me more aware of the need to be clear and intentional to each DeafBlind person I’m interpreting for. After all, “It depends”.

  • Summit Attendee

    Wow awesome presentation. Really stretched my brain. Feel like I've only scratched the surface. Looking forward to future workshops on this topic.

Meet Your Presenter

B.Ed., NIC, Ed:K-12

Brent Tracy

Brent Tracy is a proud CODA and native Bostonian. Since starting his interpreting career at Gallaudet University in 1999, Brent has worn several professional hats: interpreter, coordinator, advocate, mentor, and presenter. After witnessing and experiencing numerous inequities both personally and professionally, his aim has been to address these inequities caused by a historically strained cultural climate among hearing, Deaf, CODA practitioners, and stakeholders. He leverages his influence as CEO of Equal Access Resources on public platforms including social media to foster honest dialogues that will galvanize stakeholders to champion change for the ASL community. In his leisure time, Brent enjoys spending time with his lovely wife and 2 amazing children and creating unique handmade bow ties for his business KnotTied.

DeafBlind Instructor

Kevin Richmond

Kevin is DeafBlind and has given many presentations and trainings for the hospital and educational institutions about DeafBlind experiences and how to work with Deaf/Hard of Hearing/DeafBlind patients. Kevin also used to be a full-time lecturer at The University of Vermont in the ASL Program.
FRID is an Approved RID CMP Sponsor for Continuing Education Activities. This Professional Studies program is offered for 0.3 CEU's at the ‘Some’ Content Knowledge Level. TerpAcademy promotes an environment of mutual respect, free of discrimination based on gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, or any other protected class.