Federal and state laws specify that, if necessary, English-language learners (ELL) need to be assessed in their native language when referred for possible special education. The number of ELL students attending public schools across the nation has increased in the past few decades. There are not enough speech-language pathologists (SLPs) or audiologists who are proficient in the various languages spoken by ELL students--even in Spanish, the most common language spoken by ELL students in the United States. The next best solution is to conduct assessments in collaboration with a trained interpreter/translator.
Key features include:Information and references for the most common languages spoken by ELL studentsDiscussion of culturally based variables that need to be considered in the process of interviewing and working with linguistically and culturally diverse populationsDescription of the roles and responsibilities for individuals who will be collaborating as interpreters and translators with SLPs and audiologists in various contexts, such as interviews, assessments, and various meetings (such as IEPs and IFSPs), as well as suggestions on training individuals in this collaborative processReview of best practices in speech-language and audiological assessments, both with and without materials in the given languageFive video clips that illustrate various facets of the interpretation and translation process included on a PluralPlus companion website
Working with Interpreters and Translators: A Guide for Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists is a must-have reference for anyone working with ELL students. Although the process was developed with the pediatric population in mind, much of this information can be applied to older culturally and linguistically diverse populations in need of speech-language and/or hearing services. It will also be useful to professionals working with language interpreters in allied health professions in other countries.