Growth & Mastery Journal
Domain 5 focuses on professionalism, a crucial quality for interpreters. Interpreting is still a relatively young profession; in fact, the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID), our certifying body, was only established in 1964. Prior to that, most interpreting was done by volunteers, friends, or family members of Deaf and hard of hearing individuals, often without formal training or recognition of interpreting as a specialized profession. The establishment of RID marked the first formal acknowledgment of interpreting as professional work (Witter‑Merithew & Johnson, 2005).
Even with this recognition, interpreters have continued to advocate for being treated as professionals, and much of that progress has been made through consistent adherence to RID’s Code of Professional Conduct (CPC) and a commitment to ethical, competent practice. As I prepare to enter the field, I have been developing my own understanding of what it means to act professionally in a variety of contexts. I recognize the importance of aligning with these competencies so that, when working with consumers, I can serve as a positive representative of both the profession and its standards.
Reference:
Witter‑Merithew, A., & Johnson, L. J. (2005). Toward competent practice: Conversations with stakeholders. Registry of Interpreters
for the Deaf, Inc.
For my Domain 5 Comprehensive Essay, please click below.
Competency 5.1
Demonstrate a commitment to career-long learning and critical self-assessment by creating an on-going professional action plan.
Competency 5.2
Demonstrate planning skills in preparing for assignments and flexibility in adapting to changes that arise during assignments.
Competency 5.3
Demonstrate self-awareness and discretion by monitoring and managing personal and professional behaviors and applying professional conflict resolution strategies when appropriate.
Competency 5.5
Demonstrate commitment to the interpreting profession by becoming a member of and participating in professional organizations and activities.
Competency 5.6
Demonstrate commitment to the D/deaf Community by supporting and contributing to D/deaf-related organizations and activities.
Competency 5.8
Discuss state and national interpreter certification and/or licensure and the implications of these systems on the employment of interpreters.
Competency 5.9
Identify and discuss the scope and authority of state and federal laws impacting D/deaf people and interpreters.