Creator – Dr. Steven Surrency
CEUs – 0.1 PS CEUs (1 hour)
Learning Activity – Video
Language – Spoken English with Captions
This presentation is designed for working ASL-English interpreters who want to deepen their understanding of language from a linguistic perspective. Participants will explore the difference between prescriptive and descriptive approaches to language, examine how social attitudes toward language impact the perception of ASL and non-standard English dialects, and analyze the role of interpreters in navigating these dynamics. Through real-world examples, discussion, and reflection, interpreters will strengthen their awareness of language as a rule-governed, socially embedded system, and gain tools to support more accurate, respectful, and culturally responsive interpreting practices.
Educational Objectives:
Participants will be able to
- Describe various interactive interpreting settings.
- Describe the key features of natural languages, including ASL, and explain how these features distinguish language from other communication systems.
- Analyze how power, privilege, and social norms influence language attitudes, particularly in the treatment of ASL and non-standard dialects of English.
CEUs on the GO is an Approved RID CMP Sponsor for continuing education activities. This PS/PPO program is offered for 0.1 CEUs at the “Little/None” Content Knowledge Level.
