Working with Sign Language Users and Interpreters

What will I learn on the course?

On this course you will learn about the language and culture of deaf people who use sign language and how they are impacted by a different experience of language acquisition. The content emphasises practical ways in which you can promote equity of access, including how to work effectively with interpreters and with other professionals. 

By the end of the course what will I be able to do?

On completion of the course, you’ll be able to: 

• identify many of the barriers to access that sign language users typically experience ;
• recognise the impact of language acquisition on sign language users;
• understand how to work effectively with sign language interpreters; 
• consider how to communicate effectively if interpreters are not present; and 
• identify ways of enhancing equity of access through improved interprofessional working. 

How is the course delivered?

The module is taught online and delivered asynchronously, so you will be able to access the course materials at any time of the day or night. The module will include an online forum so that you can engage in ongoing discussion with staff and other students. 

How long does the course last for and how much time will I need to spend on it each week?

The course lasts for 8 weeks, between February and March 2024. It is delivered entirely online, which means that you can access the course material at times that suit you. On a weekly basis this will involve 3-4 hours of engagement with the module material plus around 6 hours of further independent study. 

Does the course have an assessment and if so what sort of assessment will it be?

If you are studying the short course without academic credit, there is no assessment. To achieve a CPD certificate of completion you are expected to fully engage in the material during the 6 weeks of content. 

If you are studying the short course with academic credit, the 10 credit module, there will be a written assessment at the end of the module. At SCQF Level 10 this will involve an evaluation of a video case study. 

Who will be teaching me? 

The module is delivered by two specialist tutors. Dr Rachel Mapson and Yvonne Waddell. 

Both are experienced trainers whose academic teaching is enriched by their own professional expertise as sign language interpreters. 

The module material incorporates significant sharing of lived experience and knowledge from deaf sign language contributors. 

What equipment will I need for this course?

You will require access to a computer or laptop and internet connectivity. 

Student support/access to facilities

For the duration of your course you will be able to make use of our on-campus learning resource centre as well as access to our full range of online resources, including e-books and academic journals.

You will also have limited, mainly online access to Student Services support. Students with particular support requirements can contact the Disability Service.

As you will be studying with us for less than a full academic year you will not be provided with a personal academic tutor (PAT). However, any queries regarding your studies should be directed to the staff member leading the delivery of your course.

Entry requirements

The course is delivered at SCQF Level 10, which is equivalent to the fourth (honours) year of a four-year undergraduate degree in Scotland. Each applicant must decide if the level of study is suitable for them. 

Applicants for SCQF Level 10 study would usually have completed further or higher education above the level of an HND. Alternatively, they would have relevant professional experience that supports study at this level. Applicants that have previously studied outside the UK should check that their qualification has been taught at a suitable level to prepare them for studying a course at this level. 

You do not need to provide proof of your previous qualifications. 

English Language requirements: This course is taught and assessed in English. Applicants do not need to provide proof of their English Language skills when applying for this course, but all applicants should consider whether they have sufficient English competence to study at this level. Applicants for this level of study would usually be able to demonstrate a level of English equivalent to IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component score below 6.0. 

Fees (and free places)

CPD module (Without academic credit and no assessment): £200.00  

10 Credit Module (Assessment at SCQF Level 10): £400.00 

Free places are available for any person resident in Scotland, who holds an undergraduate degree (or equivalent professional experience), who is not currently studying for a degree level qualification, and meets at least one of the criteria below: 

• unemployed or at risk of redundancy 
• self-employed and working within the creative and cultural industries or hospitality, tourism, and events sector 
• employed by a Scottish arts, cultural, hospitality, tourism, or events organisation 
• employed by a Scottish charity or social enterprise 
• employed by a Scottish Public Sector organisation that has a commitment to produce a strategic plan for BSL. (Examples include NHS, Local Authorities, Schools, FE colleges and HE institutions) 

Please note: free places are limited, and subject to availability. 

Application

TBC

Application deadline

TBC

Next start date TBC

Contact Admissions@qmu.ac.uk

Please contact Yvonne Waddell