Does the Language Center offer Sign Language classes?
A:
Yes, the Language Center offers five levels of Conversational Sign Language Classes, two levels of Fingerspelling, and an Interpreter Training Program.
Q:
What is the difference between Conversational classes and the Interpreter Training Prgram ?
A:
The Interpreter Training Program is for students who want in-depth knowledge of Sign Language and/or are preparing to take the Certification of Interpreters State Examination administered by the Texas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing [TCDHH]. All of the courses in this program are linked with the academic credit [SCH] classes. The Conversational Sign Language and Fingerspelling classes are designed for students who want basic functional communication skills with individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. These classes are not linked, but Continuing Education Units [CEUs] are awarded.
Q:
Can I earn college-transfer credit for coursework previously taken for CEU credit?
A:
Yes, all of the linked courses in the Interpreter Training Program have articulation agreements.
Q:
What is the procedure for getting the articulated credit once a student has taken a linked class?
A:
A student must have earned at least six college-credit hours to be eligible. He or she must then complete the Application for Prior Learning Assessment [PLA], which once approved by the appropriate authorities is sent to the District Student Information Services Office for posting of “CR” to the student’s transcript.
Q:
What courses are offered in the Interpreter Training Program.
A:
Beginning American Sign Language I, II
- Intermediate Sign Language I, II
- Visual/Gestural Communications
- Introduction to the Deaf Community
- Fingerspelling
- Deaf Culture
- Introduction to the Interpreting Profession
- Interpreting I, II, III
- Interpreting in Educational Settings
- Advanced Educational Interpreting
- Advanced Community Interpreting
- Medical/Legal Interpreting
- Specialized Interpreting/Transliterating
Q:
How do I know which level to take?
A:
If you are taking a conversational course and have previous Sign Language knowledge, call Anne Albarelli at 281-618-5604. If you are taking a linked course in the Interpreter Training Program, call Charles Trevino at 281-618-5535.
Q:
I already have my Interpreter certification. How can I maintain my certification status?
A:
Professional interpreters present a series of workshops every semester in response to the needs of certified interpreters for professional development and life-long learning. Licensed interpreters can earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) awarded by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) and the Texas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (TCHDD) to comply with state and national requirements to maintain their certification status. North Harris College is an official test site for the Certification of Interpreters State Examination.
