E-learning module

Working with interpreters

ABOUT
This course provides an overview of practice considerations and approaches for working with professional interpreters. It explores how we can improve our communication and interactions when working with individuals and communities from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds who have limited English language proficiency.

  • Lessons: 5 Lessons + Further learning
  • Assessment: 10 questions
  • Study time: 30-45 minutes

Course content

This course will cover the following lessons:

Lesson 1: Context

  • Definition of terms
  • Underlying principles and approaches
  • Linguistic diversity in Australia

Lesson 2: Overview of the language sector 

  • Professional vs non-professional interpreters
  • Interpreting methods

Lesson 3: Benefits and Challenges 

  • Benefits of working with professional interpreters
  • Challenges to engaging professional interpreters

Lesson 4: When to engage a professional interpreter 

  • Assessing the need for an interpreter
  • If interpreting is refused

Lesson 5: Working effectively with interpreters and good practice strategies 

  • Key planning considerations
  • Pre-briefing
  • Conducting the session
  • De-briefing

Summary and quiz

  • Summary
  • Test your knowledge

Further learning

Additional considerations:
• The refugee context
• Working with children
• Working with interpreters in a legal context
• Domestic and family violence context
• Counselling context
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