Country Report Italy
Associazione Interpreti di Lingua dei Segni ItalianaFacts about Italy
Population57.000.000 (approx) – Italian Deaf people/Italian Deaf Signers 40.000 (approx)
Size of the country (km)
The total land area of Italy is about 300,000 sq km
The number of Sign Language interpreters (part-time/full-time)
200 SL interpreters (estimated)
The interpreter organization: how many members
ANIOS has 70 members
Interpreter training: explain in short phrases the length and contents
There are no standard training programmes in Italy. At present there are a certain number of training programmes in different regions of the country. Their length and contents may vary. Subjects commonly taught are: pre-interpreting techniques, simultaneous interpretation (theory & practice), ethics, professional practices, teamwork, intercultural communication, Deaf Culture/History, Linguistics and Sign Linguistics.
Most important events for your association
ANIOS National Congress and Board Elections1987-2007: 20th anniversary of ANIOS (celebrations postponed in 2008)
Most important events for the situation of Sign Language interpreters in your country
(for example the recognition of the national Sign Language, of the profession, etc.)
The Italian Deaf Association (ENS) officially asked Italian Government to recognize Italian Sign Language by Law. An Italian Sign Language Petition was signed by many Academic Institutions, Scholars and by ANIOS as well. Our Government should approve the law on SL by the end of this year.
Just like last year, the University of Venice will organize an Advanced Course in “Interpretation from/into Italian Sign Language and Spoken Italian: Theory and Practice” with the support of ANIOS.
Details: one-year course (academic year 2007-2008) for a total amount of 1.200 teaching hours (including theory, training and tutored activities). Student Fee: € 2.200. Minimum 20 students, maximum 30.
Teaching modules:
Introduction
Sign Language Theory
Language Skills
Italian Pronunciation
Linguistics
Neurolinguistics
Translation
Interpretation
Interpretation (advanced)
Professional Code of Practice/Law and Rules
Goals of your association for the coming year
Cooperation network & Policy ActionTraining
Promotion