SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETING & CAPTIONING IN HIGHER EDUCATION
Through Access Interpreting’s comprehensive suite of accessibility solutions, including sign language interpreting and captioning services, we serve as your ultimate language accommodations partner.
ASL INTERPRETING SERVICES
American sign language interpreting services play a pivotal role in higher education by bridging communication gaps for Deaf and hard-of-hearing students. Professional interpreters facilitate real-time interpretation of lectures, discussions, and campus events, ensuring these students have equal access to educational content. This inclusive approach not only supports their academic success but also fosters a diverse and collaborative learning environment where all students can actively participate and contribute.
CAPTIONING SERVICES
Captioning services ensure equitable access to course content for diverse learners. These services provide real-time transcription of spoken lectures and discussions, making them accessible through text displayed on screens. This inclusive approach not only fosters a supportive learning environment but also contributes to improved student engagement, comprehension, and ultimately, higher graduation and retention rates.
COMPLIANCE
Section 504 and Section 508 are two important provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) that address accessibility and anti-discrimination measures for individuals with disabilities.
Section 504 of the ADA (Rehabilitation Act of 1973)
Section 504 prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in programs and activities that receive federal financial assistance. This includes a wide range of institutions such as schools, colleges, universities, and other educational entities. Under Section 504, these institutions are required to provide reasonable accommodations and ensure accessibility to individuals with disabilities, allowing them equal participation and access to educational opportunities. This may include providing sign language interpreters or captioning services.
Section 508 of the ADA (Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998)
Section 508 specifically focuses on electronic accessibility. It requires that any organizations receiving federal funding, make their electronic and information technology (EIT) accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes websites, software, and other digital communication tools. Section 508 standards provide guidelines for ensuring that digital content is usable by individuals with various disabilities. Some solutions may include adding captioning services to your digital content. Compliance with Section 508 ensures that individuals with disabilities can access and interact with digital content on an equal basis with others.
Both Section 504 and Section 508 aim to promote inclusion, accessibility, and equal treatment for individuals with disabilities in various aspects of public life, including education and digital communication. It’s important for educational institutions and federal agencies to adhere to these provisions to ensure that individuals with disabilities have meaningful access to programs, services, and information.