The purpose of this study is to comprehend the issues of sign language interpretation service delivery system recognized by sign language interpreters and draw out their needs in tasks related to sign language interpretation. Through this, practical plans to reform sign language interpretation service delivery system for high quality sign language interpretation, which the people with hearing impairment are satisfied with, are proposed.
The research method of literature review and focus group interview was used in this study. The general details on sign language interpretation and sign language interpretation service delivery system of Korea was examined through literature review and the data derived from the results of focus group interview categorized the details for analysis.
As the result of literature review the largest portion of sign language interpretation service delivery system of Korea was ‘sign language interpretation center’ and ‘communication transmission center’. And besides these two, there were universities with many people with hearing disability, major public institutions with high level of needs by people with hearing disability, companies employing people with hearing disability. 4 high categories in perception of sign language interpreter on sign language interpretation service delivery system were identified through focus group interview which are ‘work environment’, ‘execution and connection of interpretation service’, ‘operating system’, ‘contents suggestion’. Moreover, 16 sub categories and 47 concepts were derived as well.
In conclusion, proposals for reform in sign language interpretation service delivery system are first, expansion of sign language interpreter in number and improvement of their poor work environment. Second, ground-breaking reorganizing of sign language interpretation service delivery system through unification and adjustment should be put in practice. Third, plans that promise enhancement of quality of sign language interpreter should be put under mature consideration through innovative reform of sign language interpreter training system and its process. Fourth, the development of detailed field centered sign language interpretation service manual and guideline should be done. Fifth, effective and efficient sign language interpreter management operating system should be established with specific details. Last, sign language interpretation service system with convenient use should be developed.