A CDI is an individual who is Deaf or Hard of Hearing and
has been certified by the Registry of Interpreters for the
Deaf as an interpreter. The CDI has extensive knowledge
and understanding of deafness, the Deaf community, and Deaf
culture in addition to excellent communication skills. They
are fluent in both English and American Sign Language. A
CDI may be needed when the communication mode of a Deaf
individual is so unique that it cannot be adequately comprehended
by hearing interpreters. A CDI would be more able to meet
their special communication needs. Such individuals may:
· communicate in home signs, signs unique to a family
but not known in the community
· use foreign sign language
· have minimal or limited communication skills, or
be highly visual communicators
· use signs particular to a given region, ethnic,
or age group
· have characteristics reflective of Deaf culture
not familiar to hearing interpreters.
Because the CDI is a “native” user of sign
language, they will be able to identify linguistic subtleties
and nuances embedded in the communication of a Deaf individual.
While a hearing interpreter may acquire fluency in American
Sign Language, they may not have the skill and flexibility
to adequately interpret for a Deaf person who uses other visual communication modes. |
The benefits of using CDI with a hearing interpreter include:
· optimal communication access, receptive and expressive
· full understanding by all parties
· clarification of linguistic and/or cultural confusion
and misunderstanding
· efficient use of time and resources
· freedom for the Deaf individual to communicate
in their native language without the added strain of attempting
to communicate in English-like sign
· opportunity for the Deaf individual to think and
respond more appropriately as well as understand the exact
intent of the questions or dialogue,
Using a CDI as a team member with qualified and certified
hearing interpreters, communication by and for all parties
involved may be more efficient, accurate and equal. |
