CILISAT - Community Interpreter Language and Interpreting Skills Assessment Tools Managing the Interpreting Session Questions and Answers

Question 1

An interpreter is facilitating a session between a service provider and a client. To best promote direct communication and maintain the proper professional role, where should the interpreter position themselves?

Accepted Answer

Slightly behind and to the side of the client or provider.

Answer

The ideal position for an interpreter is one that encourages the primary parties to speak directly to each other. Sitting or standing slightly behind and to the side of one of the parties makes the interpreter less of a focal point, reinforcing that they are a facilitator of communication, not a participant in the conversation.

Question 2

What is the primary purpose of conducting a 'pre-session' or briefing before the client enters the room?

Accepted Answer

To establish communication protocols and clarify the purpose of the meeting.

Answer

A pre-session is a critical step for managing the interpreting session effectively. It allows the interpreter and the service provider to clarify the interpreter's role, establish ground rules (like speaking in short segments), discuss the meeting's agenda and any specialized terminology, and ensure a shared understanding of the goals before the client is present.

Question 3

During a session at a community health clinic, the service provider and the client begin speaking very quickly and talking over one another. What is the interpreter's most appropriate action to manage the flow of communication?

Accepted Answer

Intervene calmly, using a hand gesture or a brief statement, to ask both parties to pause and speak one at a time.

Answer

A core part of managing the session is managing its flow. When communication breaks down due to participants speaking too quickly or simultaneously, the interpreter has a responsibility to intervene professionally. A calm, brief intervention, such as raising a hand to signal a pause or stating "Interpreter needs to pause to ensure accuracy," allows the interpreter to regain control and ensure that everything can be interpreted completely and accurately.

Question 4

Which of the following is a key reason for an interpreter to conduct a debriefing with the service provider after a session has concluded?

Accepted Answer

To process any emotionally difficult content and clarify any cultural or linguistic misunderstandings that arose.

Answer

A post-session debriefing is a professional practice that allows the interpreter and provider to address challenges from the session. It's an opportunity to discuss any confusing terminology, clarify potential cultural misunderstandings, and for the interpreter to receive support if the session's content was emotionally taxing. This process contributes to service improvement and the interpreter's well-being.

Question 5

An interpreter is asked to assist a client in filling out a complex financial assistance application form by writing the answers for them. According to professional standards, how should the interpreter manage this request?

Accepted Answer

Refuse to write on the form, but interpret the questions for the client so they can fill it out themselves.

Answer

The interpreter's role is to facilitate communication, not to act as a scribe, advocate, or administrative assistant. Filling out forms on behalf of a client falls outside the interpreter's boundaries and can lead to errors and liability issues. The correct action is to interpret the document's contents so the client or provider can complete it accurately.

CILISAT - Community Interpreter Language and Interpreting Skills Assessment Tools Practice Test

CILISAT - Community Interpreter Language and Interpreting Skills Assessment Tools Practice Test

CILISAT - Community Interpreter Language and Interpreting Skills Assessment Tools Managing the Interpreting Session Questions and Answers