Live Interpreting

No. Different people need different types of interpreting services. Some examples:

• Sign language interpreters use different types of sign language. In the U.S., the most common is American Sign Language (ASL), but other countries have their own sign languages.
• Some interpreters use tactile sign language for people who are also blind or have other disabilities.
• Others may use text-based communication, like typing messages back and forth, for people who don’t use sign language.

Not always. Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi follows federal and state digital accessibility regulations. These regulations say we must meet certain standards, called Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). Sign language interpreting is part of the Level AAA success criteria. We are required to meet Level A and AA. However, it is a reasonable accommodation if someone with a disability specifically asks for it.

For example, captions help many people, including those who speak English as a second language or have learning disabilities. But some people need more visual or touch-based help to understand.

So, unless someone requests an interpreter or the event is large and public (like a graduation), interpreters are not automatically provided.

Tip: If you’re planning an event, make sure people can ask for accommodations ahead of time. Try to give at least ten (10) business days’ notice, especially during busy times (e.g., commencement, emergencies).

Sometimes. Many online platforms already have chat features (e.g., question-and-answer, chat room). But if the speaker and audience are using chat to communicate, someone should be watching the chat to make sure questions and comments are seen and answered.

Cisco Jabber is more focused on one-on-one communications (see Webex options for sign language interpreters).

1. If both members of the call know the same language (e.g., American Sign Language), then the callers can use the video chat option in the application instead of contracting a sign language interpreter.
2. If a live interpreter is required, the requesting department will need to assess funding for the live interpreter.
3. Alternately, Jabber provides a chat room where callers can text message each other.

A caller can view the interpreter window during the call. If a separate window is still difficult, a separate device can be used to view both screens synchronously.

Cisco Webex is no longer licensed at TAMU-CC. However, you can use the guest option to attend meetings from external organizations. If you need accommodations, contact them for assistance.

Webex Meetings allow you to invite a sign language interpreter to be a participant in your event and pin their window to your presentation.

Microsoft Teams allows you to invite a sign language interpreter into your meeting or event. Pin their video and reframe it for proper visibility. At this time, only university employees or students can be invited in to provide the interpretation between presenters and audience members who need to interact with the presenters. Outside interpreters will need to use a separate application.

Attendees can view the interpreter window during the event. If a separate window is still difficult, a separate device can be used to view both screens synchronously.

Zoom Meetings allow you to invite a sign language interpreter to be a participant in your event and pin their window to your presentation.

Attendees can view the interpreter window during the event. If a separate window is still difficult, a separate device can be used to view both screens synchronously. Zoom support resources:

• Side-by-Side Mode for Screen Sharing
• How Do I Change the Video Layout
• Pin Video