Pennsylvania Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf

Workshop descriptions

workshops presented by:

jeffrey york

Getting Better at Getting Better: A Framework for Interpreter Improvement

Target Audience: Interpreters Seeking a Framework for Improvement

This workshop will be presented in: ASL

Improvement does not happen by accident. It requires a deliberate process for identifying strengths, analyzing performance, testing new strategies, and measuring growth over time. Drawing from principles of improvement science, this workshop introduces a structured framework for interpreter skill development that moves beyond general practice and toward targeted, data-informed improvement. Participants will learn how to identify specific areas for growth, engage in purposeful reflection, implement small changes, and evaluate their effectiveness through ongoing progress monitoring. Whether preparing for certification, improving workplace performance, or pursuing long-term professional growth, interpreters will leave with practical tools for creating sustainable and measurable improvement in their practice.

View in ASL:https://youtu.be/eAtFoRKt3UE

Educational Objectives:

Explain how improvement science principles can be adapted to interpreter development.
Analyze interpreting performance to identify high-impact areas for growth.
Design a structured improvement cycle that includes goal setting, intervention, reflection, and measurement.
Collect and interpret performance data to guide future learning decisions.

Drafting a Blueprint: Industry Standards for the Future of Our Profession

Target Audience: All interpreters

This workshop will be presented in: ASL

Professional fields such as medicine, nursing, law, psychology, engineering, and education did not emerge fully formed. Over time, these professions developed standards of practice, credentialing systems, educational requirements, ethical frameworks, and regulatory structures designed to protect the public and ensure quality services. This session examines how professionalization occurs and explores the historical forces that shaped today's recognized practice professions.

Using these professions as reference points, participants will analyze the current state of the ASL-English interpreting profession, including persistent challenges related to workforce development, credentialing, educational preparation, specialization, licensure, and public accountability. Through this discussion, participants will consider what infrastructure is necessary to support the long-term growth and sustainability of the profession.

The session concludes with a forward-looking examination of potential policy recommendations and system-level strategies that may strengthen professional standards while promoting access, quality, and public trust in ASL-English interpreting services.

View in ASL: https://youtu.be/7utvg4yZqvo

Educational Objectives:

Describe key characteristics associated with the development and professionalization of established practice professions.
Analyze the current structure of the ASL-English interpreting profession through the lens of professional standards and workforce development.
Identify systemic challenges affecting professional consistency, quality assurance, and public accountability within the interpreting profession.
Evaluate potential policy and practice recommendations designed to strengthen professional standards and support long-term workforce sustainability.