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DESCRIPTION OF WITA SKILL QUALIFICATIONS

Wisconsin has no legal mandate for minimum skill in interpreting settings. The Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, however, strongly encourages all interpreters and consumers of interpreting services use the recommended guidelines below for interpreter and transliterator usage. All levels have met a requirement to take and pass a valid and reliable examination assuring the candidate's knowledge of the RID Code of Ethics and professional practices.

When selecting an interpreter, consumer's preference, the interpreter's familiarity with the subject matter of the situation as well as the interpreter's skill level need to be considered.

Level 1 Interpreters and/or Transliterators
demonstrate the ability to interpret/transliterate so as to convey the content of the message. Can function expressively and receptively in many situations.

Could function adequately as an interpreter/transliterator in most situations.

Not recommended to be used in any:
Civil or criminal court cases
Extensive mental health therapy 
Critical medical situations

Level 2 Interpreters and/or Transliterators
demonstrate an ability to interpret or transliterate a significant portion of the message clearly. May not demonstrate the proficiency in some skills demonstrated by Level I Interpreters/Transliterators. Could function expressively and receptively in many situations.

Example, could be used in:
     Most one-on-one situations
     Most group sessions
     Platform interpreting

Not recommended to be used in any:
Educational settings
Legal situations
Mental health situations
Serious medical situations
Critical situations of any nature

Last Updated:  August 08, 2011