Courses

Every course in the Department of ASL-English Interpretation at Columbia College Chicago emphasizes the core values that bring and bind us together. Chief among these values is an unyielding belief that the Deaf community is a culturally rich, vibrantly linguistic cultural minority group. This is why we adhere to industry standards and use a capital “D” in Deaf; it’s an acknowledgement of the vibrancy of the Deaf culture community.

All of our courses—including unique core courses and electives such as “Multicultural Issues in Interpreting,” “Historical and Cultural Perspectives on Deaf American Artists and Art,” and “Storytelling and ASL,”—celebrate Deaf culture. We are proud that Deaf people teach all of our ASL and Deaf culture classes.

The Department of ASL-English Interpretation works closely with the Chicago Deaf community to infuse our courses with cultural perspectives on American Sign Language, interpreting, and Deaf studies. These unique partnerships, combined with the teaching experience, diversity, and expertise of faculty members, make our curricula unparalleled in the field of undergraduate ASL-English Interpretation education.

American Sign Language I

37-1151 (3 credit hours)

Course concentrates on development of conversational fluency in American Sign Language (ASL). Students learn to accurately recognize and produce signs in ASL with appropriate nonmanual behaviors and grammatical features. Course is a basic introduction to ASL, and students develop expressive and receptive ASL skills through discussions of topics such as exchanging personal information and talking about surroundings, residences, families, and activities.

American Sign Language II

37-1152 (3 credit hours)

Course focuses on continued development of conversational fluency in American Sign Language, including further training in receptive and expressive skills, fingerspelling, vocabulary-building, and grammatical structures. Students begin to develop understanding of use of classifiers and signing space in ASL. Topics introduced include giving directions, describing physical characteristics, making requests, discussion of occupations, attributing qualities to individuals, and daily routines.

Deaf Culture

37-1252 (3 credit hours)

Course is an introduction to various aspects of the deaf community as a linguistic and cultural minority group. Designed for individuals who may or may not have had prior experience with deaf people, course raises questions concerning the nature of sign language and its varieties, education of deaf people, historical treatment of deaf people, sociological and cultural issues important to the deaf community, and political activism.

Introduction to Interpreting

37-1253 (2 credit hours)

This course introduces students to the fields of interpreting. Focus is placed on the history of the field, growth of the profession and current practices. An introduction to the interpreter's role and ethical decision making is provided. Students will learn in an interactive setting which encourages skills in critical thinking, reading, writing and collaboration.

English Vocabulary and Grammar for Interpreters

37-1601 (1 credit hour)

This course will provide a detailed look at the components of the new State of Illinois written test for interpreter licensure, the Board for the Evaluation of Interpreters (BEI) Test of English Proficiency (TEP). Strategies for approaching each section of the test will be introduced, including the reading comprehension portion, sentence completions, questions with synonyms, antonyms and idioms, and the English grammar section. SAT and GRE level vocabulary will be presented, and sample tests will be taken throughout the semester.

ASL Fingerspelling

37-1701 (3 credit hours)

Summer Enrichment Course emphasizes when and how to use fingerspelling in American Sign Language. Appropriate changes in handshapes and patterns are discussed and practiced as well as the lexicalization of fingerspelling.

Directed Study: ASL/English Interpretation

37-1899 (1-6 credit hour)

Directed Studies are learning activities involving student independence within the context of regular guidance and direction from a faculty advisor. Directed Studies are appropriate for students who wish to explore a subject beyond what is possible in regular courses or for students who wish to engage in a subject or activity not otherwise offered that semester by the College. Directed Studies involve close collaboration with a faculty advisor who will assist in development and design of the project, oversee its progress, evaluate the final results, and submit a grade.

American Sign Language III

37-2153 (3 credit hours)

Course includes vocabulary-building and mastery of grammar through rigorous receptive and expressive language activities. ASL skills development with application to complex grammatical structures continues. Topics discussed in ASL include the location and description of items in rooms and buildings, complaints, making suggestions, and making requests. Notes on deaf culture are also discussed.

American Sign Language IV

37-2154 (3 credit hours)

Course focuses on continued development of receptive and expressive American Sign Language skills. Course covers the following topics using ASL: telling about life events, describing objects, and discussion of activities and current events. Notes on deaf culture are also included.

Historical and Cultural Perspectives on Deaf American Artists and Art

37-2251 (3 credit hours)

This course focuses on the refinement of students' appreciations and knowledge in the visual art history and Deaf Arts. This course will also investigate the historical and cultural perceptions toward to the Deaf artists and their works; use comparative studies focusing on the work of Deaf artists which may not appear under the definition of Deaf Art, and will explore and produce a body of work demonstrating a Deaf experience related to painting, sculpture, and installation spaces.

Linguistics of ASL

37-2253 (3 credit hours)

Course focuses on the linguistic structures of American Sign Language, including phonology, morphology, syntax, and language. Structural aspects of both American Sign Language and English are compared and contrasted, providing students with valuable insight into both languages.

Interpreting Techniques

37-2301 (1 credit hour)

This course prepares students to make the leap from intra-lingual analysis to inter-lingual interpreting. Pre-interpreting skills will be introduced in class each week and weekly lab assignments will be required for skill development. Students will begin to develop important critical thinking in order to prepare them for the next development level.

Language and Translation

37-2302 (3 credit hours)

Students translate discourse from English to American Sign Language and from American Sign Language to English. Instruction includes analysis of the text, understanding language equivalence, restructuring the message, and judging appropriateness when translating.

Creativity and ASL

37-2601 (3 credit hours)

Course focuses on utilizing American Sign Language as a tool for creating poetry, storytelling, and theatrical productions. Students participate in activities and discussions and occasional assignments outside of class. Course is designed to increase students' understanding of how aspects of deaf culture are expressed through creative American Sign Language.

Working in the Deaf-Blind Community

37-2602 (2 credit hours)

This course is an introduction to various aspects of the deaf-blind community. Designed for individuals who may or may not have had prior experience with the deaf-blind community, this course focuses on the variety of cultural norms and modes of communication that can be found within that community. Student will begin to develop an understanding of the role of the Support Service Provider (SSP)/sighted guide and will have opportunities for hands-on practical experience and community interaction.

Working in the Deaf-Blind Community

37-2602J (2 credit hours)

Introduction to ASL Storytelling

37-2603 (3 credit hours)

This course introduces the basic knowledge and skills in ASL storytelling performance. It focuses on the improvement of presentation skills, creativity, and the integration of story throughout the course. Subjects range from artistic and practical aspects of performance to specialized uses of storytelling in the profession of ASL interpreting. The focus is on basic performance techniques, and the uses of storytelling in various venues such as in mainstream communities as well as in the Deaf communities. Techniques for storytelling-building will be taught.

ASL IV Lab

37-2901 (0 credit hour)

This is a zero-credit lab. Students who register for 37-2154 must also register for this lab.

Multicultural Issues

37-3204 (3 credit hours)

Course explores multicultural issues as related to the interpreting profession and the deaf community. Broad introduction of multiculturalism is followed by an in-depth look at the most common cultures and cultural issues interpreters encounter. Flexibility in the schedule allows for study of additional cultural groups. Guest presenters and field trips allow students to experience the richness of diverse communities and gain insight that can be applied to their interpreting and to their everyday lives.

Advanced American Sign Language

37-3205 (3 credit hours)

This advanced ASL course is specifically designed to refine expressive and receptive ASL skills. Advanced linguistic structures are reviewed and applied. Vocabulary building specific to areas in which interpreters find the greatest challenges such as medical, legal, computer technology, sports, religion, academics, business, rehabilitation and local terms is an important aspect of this course. Current events are discussed in ASL, giving students opportunities to apply their linguistic and cultural knowledge while participating in open discussions.

Intensive Three Week Immersion at Siena School

37-3251 (4 credit hours)

This three weeks immersion course focuses on three units: Italian Sign Language, (LIS) Italian Deaf Culture, and Italian language as well as focuses on cultural exchanges and use of receptor (LIS) language in daily practicum.The Italian Sign Language, LIS unit, through a unique storytelling method, will enable students to start conversing and engaging in dialogues from the very first day. An essential part of the course will be meeting members of the local deaf community.The Deaf Culture unit will introduce students to Italy through the lens of Italian Deaf Culture and by meeting members of the Deaf Community. Though the Deaf Community is often perceived as a transnational community, the distinct national cultures in which Deaf people live are of tremendous importance. We will explore the Italian situation by taking both a historical and sociological approach.The Italian language unit has the aim of providing essential language tools to our beginner students. Language acquisition will happen both in the classroom and at home, since all students will be living with Italian hosts.

Intensive Three Week Immersion at Siena School

37-3251J (4 credit hours)

Theory of Interpretation

37-3304 (3 credit hours)

Course examines history of translation, models of interpreting, and equivalence across languages. Study includes theories of spoken language interpreting and sign language interpreting. Theories of basic, practical ethics and behaviors are explored and applied to the interpreting profession.

Consecutive Interpreting

37-3401 (3 credit hours)

Students begin to practice interpreting skills consecutively. Students interpret from American Sign Language to English and from English to American Sign Language with a controlled amount of time between the source and the interpretation. Students are introduced to planned and unplanned material and have opportunities to observe working interpreters.

Advanced Interpreting Analysis

37-3402 (3 credit hours)

Course focuses on simultaneously interpreting monologues from American Sign Language to English and from English to American Sign Language. Interpretation in this case begins before the source message is completed and continues while the source message continues. Students practice interpreting speeches, lectures, and narratives. Opportunities to observe working interpreters are provided.

Simultaneous Interpreting: Dialogues

37-3403 (3 credit hours)

Course focuses on simultaneously interpreting dialogues from American Sign Language to English and from English to American Sign Language. Interpretation begins before the source message is completed and continues while the source message continues. Students practice interpreting such events as telephone calls, meetings, and interviews. Opportunities to observe working interpreters are provided.

Transliterating & Educational Interpreting

37-3404 (3 credit hours)

Course focuses on transfer of information from spoken English to a signing system and from a signing system to spoken English. Students practice transliterating skills in various planned and unplanned situations. Issues specific to educational interpreting settings are discussed, and opportunities to observe educational interpreters are provided.

2-D Interpreting: VRS and VRI

37-3405 (3 credit hours)

This course focuses on interpreting while watching source language material seen and heard via video technology. History, research, industry FCC regulations, and techniques will be discussed. Given time constraints in this dynamic work environment, demands within this setting include working quickly and efficiently, a strong understanding of a customer service philosophy, and an ability to manage diverse decision-making tasks. Awareness of the unique experiences present in the VRS-VRI setting will contribute to enhancement of skill as an ASL-English interpreter.

Interpreting Practicum I

37-3501 (4 credit hours)

This course provides an opportunity for students to apply their knowledge, skills, and experiences in a variety of interpreting settings–-in education, business, public service agencies, and as freelance interpreters. Students will participate in supervised field work. Students will also attend a weekly seminar to examine the various sub-fields of interpreting and to discuss linguistic and ethical dilemmas.

Interpreting Practicum II

37-3502 (4 credit hours)

This course provides an opportunity for students to apply their knowledge, skills, and experiences in a variety of interpreting settings--in education, business, public service agencies, and as freelance interpreters. Students will participate in both supervised and unsupervised field work. Additionally, students will attend a weekly seminar that focuses on the business aspects of interpreting.

Interpreting for Deaf Blind Consumers

37-3602 (2 credit hours)

This course will focus on strategies and techniques for interpreting for deaf-blind consumers. The students will understand linguistic modifications for tactile and restricted field communication, various modes of communication, as well as using environmental accommodations. Through hands-on interpreting activities, students will practice linguistic modifications for both tactile and restricted field communication. This course will focus on developing competency in a variety of settings in interpreting for deaf-blind consumers.

Interpreting for Deaf Blind Consumers

37-3602J (2 credit hours)

This course will focus on strategies and techniques for interpreting for Deaf-blind consumers. The students will understand linguistic modifications for tactile and restricted field communication, various modes of communication, as well as using environmental accommodations. Through hands-on interpreting activities, students will practice linguistic modifications for both tactile and restricted field communication. This course will focus on developing competency in a variety of settings in interpreting for Deaf-blind consumers.

Interpreting in Religious Settings

37-3603J (3 credit hours)

Liturgy literally means the work of the people. Understanding the purpose behind elements of Christian religious practice, students will develop a broad understanding of the role of the interpreter within the Church leadership and among the Deaf participants. Students will learn about both liturgical practices and ethical interpreting practices within Christian religious settings. They will observe and analyze religious situations for both interpretation of the texts and other forms of liturgical expression.

Topics in ASL-English Interpretation

37-3650 (1-3 credit hour)

This course offers students opportunities to learn about specialized areas of study within the field of Interpretation. Units will cover information that is introduced in other courses within the major, but provide additional theoretical foundations and/or skills practice to prepare students for work in a particular interpreting setting or concentration.

Topics in ASL-English Interpretation

37-3650J (1-3 credit hour)

ASL Literature

37-3661 (3 credit hours)

Course covers two full-length ASL narratives by Ben Bahan and Sam Supalla, well respected ASL storytellers. Through the narratives, students are exposed to the lives and experiences of deaf people. Deaf people rely on ASL narratives to portray themselves and to reaffirm their identities as members of a distinct cultural group. Students also learn how a narrative is formed without a written system and how it is preserved and passed down through the generations. Note: This is a required course for students pursuing an American Sign Language Studies Minor.

Independent Project: ASL-English Interpretation

37-3898 (1-6 credit hour)

Independent projects offer credit to students for special projects related to deafness and/or interpreting. Student proposes project to the department chairperson for approval in advance, at which time number of credits are assigned. Contact the Interpreter Training Department for additional details.

Undergraduate Research Mentorship

37-3950 (1-3 credit hour)

The Undergraduate Research Mentorship connects talented students interested in the experience of conducting academic research in particular disciplines with faculty in the Liberal Arts and Sciences. This course, available to students from across the College, gives students the opportunity to gain real-world experience and learn research and scholarly techniques from practitioners in academic and integrative disciplines based in the Liberal Arts and Sciences. The experience will prove valuable to students as they enter professional fields or pursue higher academic degrees. Faculty members will gain assistance in completing their innovative research and scholarship while mentoring students in fields of specialization within the academic community.