Guidelines for Students Using Interpreters

• All interpreting needs and schedules MUST be arranged through Disability Access Services (College Center, RM 164). Any changes in scheduling must be cleared through this office.
  
  
• All requests for semester interpreting services must be initiated by the student. The student must submit a Request for Accommodations form to Disability Access Services (College Center, RM 164) by the deadline stated in Aims Community College Semester Class Schedule.
  
  
• All interpreters are contacted, hired, and scheduled by Disability Access Services. Disability Access Services' financial responsibility extends only to these interpreters.
• On the first day of class, introduce yourself to the instructor so that the interpreter can easily identify you.
  
  
• Be on time for class. The interpreters are instructed to leave if you have not arrived within 15 minutes of class time.
  
  
• Notify Disability Access Services and your interpreter in advance when you will not be able to attend class.
  
  
• Familiarize yourself with concepts, vocabulary, and the textbook. Get a copy of words and the syllabus from the instructor at the beginning of the semester. Note the glossary in the textbook for definition of unfamiliar words.
  
  
• It is unprofessional to initiate conversation or sleep while the interpreter is working.
  
  
• Tutoring and interpreting are separate duties. The interpreter is not a tutor. However, tutorial services are available. Let your instructor know if you feel you need tutorial assistance. Do not ask your interpreter to do outside assignments unless it has been cleared through the DAS office.
  
  
• Help the interpreter by showing him/her the sign if you know it.
  
  
• Let the DAS office know immediately if you add or drop a class.
  
  
• Contact the office if your interpreter is absent more than once without notifying you. The interpreter is a paid employee and should attend all classes just as he/she would attend any job.
  
  
• For the best view of your interpreter, sit near the front of the class. Ask the instructor to help you find a classmate to serve as a notetaker. The office will provide you carbon treated paper.