Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 9:18 PM AWST

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Utilise an interpreter

Utilise an interpreter

Unit of competency
National Code
HLTPOP406C
State Code
D8458
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Deleted
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
25/03/2011
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
06/08/2014
Field of Education
080313 - Public And Health Care Administration
Original Release Date
06/08/2014
Nominal Hours
25
Description
DescriptorThis unit describes using the services of an interpreter for a community event such as a meeting, discussion group, forum, community feedback, or information sessionIt is particularly concerned with choosing the interpreting service appropriate to event and its participants, selecting and briefing an interpreter, and adequately designing and planning the event to incorporate to use of an interpreter
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Determine the need for interpreter services
  • 1.1 Consult the participant group/community to determine their language and interpreting needs
  • 1.2 Determine the type of interpreting service required
  • 1.3 Determine the qualifications and experience required of an interpreter for the particular event
2. Select an interpreter
  • 2.1 Consult and follow organisation policy and procedures for selecting and utilising an interpreter
  • 2.2 Identify, contact and interview suitable individuals, either sole practitioners or interpreting company employees
  • 2.3 Check and verify references of potential interpreters
  • 2.4 Select an interpreter who has knowledge of and/or is comfortable with the subject matters of the event
  • 2.5 Select an interpreter who can meet the language and interpreting needs of participants
3. Brief an interpreter
  • 3.1 Arrange a meeting with the interpreter prior to the event at a mutually convenient time and place
  • 3.2 Provide the interpreter with access to all materials relevant to the event
  • 3.3 Provide the interpreter with an agenda, description and outline of the event
  • 3.4 Brief the interpreter on the subject matter of the event, explain concepts and clarify terminology
  • 3.5 Brief the interpreter on event, participant backgrounds and needs
4. Plan an event where an interpreter is used
  • 4.1 Sequence the event to allow for the interpreting process
  • 4.2 Obtain, trial and install any specialised equipment needed by the interpreter prior to the event
  • 4.3 Ensure scheduling throughout the event allows for the time taken to interpret
  • 4.4 Ensure seating arrangements allow for the interpreter to clearly see the people to whom they speak and to see what they see
  • 4.5 Allow time during and after the event to seek and respond to feedback from participants about the interpreting process
RANGE STATEMENT

The Range Statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Add any essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts.


Interpreter services can include:
Simultaneous or consecutive/sequential interpreting
Use of specialised audio systems or pieces of equipment
Professional interpreters - individuals holding formal qualifications
Community communicators - individuals recognised by a community as capable and acceptable interpreters


Materials relevant to an event can include:
Agendas
Session plans
Reference material such as articles, reports, statistics, organizational policies and procedures, brochures, information sheets
Audio visual materials such as films, videos or DVDs, audiotapes
Maps, diagrams, overheads
Demonstrations, models, mockups
Glossaries of terminology - previously translated


Language and interpreting needs can include:
Recognised community languages
Regional dialects
Sensitivities to political and social issues of recent or historical origin


Interview with a potential interpreter should determine if:
The interpreter expresses themselves well in both languages
The interpreter can interpret samples of both languages in both directions
The interpreter's pronunciation and accent can be understood quickly and clearly
The interpreter is comfortable with the subject matter for interpretation, and with the participant community
The interpreter is available to attend the event if needed
EVIDENCE GUIDE

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the Performance Criteria, Required Skills and Knowledge, the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate this competency unit:
The individual being assessed must provide evidence of specified essential knowledge as well as skills


Access and equity considerations:
All workers in the health industry should be aware of access and equity issues in relation to their own area of work
All workers should develop their ability to work in a culturally diverse environment
In recognition of particular health issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, workers should be aware of cultural, historical and current issues impacting on health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
Assessors and trainers must take into account relevant access and equity issues, in particular relating to factors impacting on health of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander clients and communities


Context of and specific resources for assessment:
This unit can be assessed both on and off the job
Must have access to:
interpreters or companies that supply interpreters


Method of assessment:
Assessment may include:
Demonstration and simulation
Interviewing and questioning
Case studies and scenarios
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
C9462 HLTPOP406B Utilise an interpreter Unit of competency