Lesson 3: Modes of Interpreting

Question 1

What are the 4 modes of interpreting?

Answer 1

1. consecutive
2. simultaneous
3. sight translation
4. summarization

Question 2

what is consecutive interpreting and when is it appropriate in a medical setting?

Answer 2

when an interpreter interprets after the speaker is done speaking; there will be a pause after 1 party is done speaking to allow for the interpreter to translate then allow the 2nd party to answer
- this mode is most common in medical setting and used in medical interviews and appointments

Question 3

what is simultaneous interpreting and when is it appropriate in a medical setting?

Answer 3

this is when an interpreter interprets while the speaker is speaking, there will be a 3-4 second delay
- normally this can be confusing but will be used in a mental health setting when patient has a emotional narrative or in emergency situations when the patient cannot be interrupted

Question 4

what is sight translation and when is it appropriate in a medical setting?

Answer 4

this is when an interpreter is reading a text written in source language and then verbally translates the text into the target language
- this is used when filling out forms or explaining diagrams

Question 5

what is summarization and when is it appropriate in a medical setting?

Answer 5

Summarization is when a person speaks at length and the interpreter then summarizes the important points at the end
- this form is not used in medical setting because it can lead to errors
- only time it is okay is when doctor engages in highly technical discussion with another healthcare provider in front of patient but is not speaking to patient