Tactile Language Interpretation

Tactile languages are communication systems used by DeafBlind individuals. Unlike visual signed languages, tactile languages rely on touch to convey meaning. Here are some fundamental distinctions to help you understand tactile languages and their uses:

• The importance of touch: When communicating through tactile languages, the DeafBlind person places their hands on top of the communicator’s hands to feel the various handshapes and movements on different parts of the hands, arms, and body. All lexical, grammatical, and expressive nuances must be conveyed through touch, unlike signed languages, which use facial expressions and other visual cues.
• Distinction from ASL: American Sign Language (commonly used by sighted Deaf individuals) is a visual language that relies on handshapes, movements, facial expressions, and body language to convey meaning within a visual-based “air space.” In contrast, tactile language shifts communication from this visual “air space” to a tactile “contact space” as its foundational linguistic element. (For more information on ASL and other sign languages, visit the Sign Language Interpretation page of the Hub.)
• Forms of tactile languages: Tactile languages are vital for DeafBlind individuals, since they provide a direct and accessible form of communication that visual signed languages do not. The two main variations are listed below.
  • Tactile American Sign Language (TASL) involves the receiver placing their hands over the signer’s hands to feel the signs.
  • Protactile (PT) is a distinct language that utilizes touch-based communication, relying on various parts of the hands, arms, and body to express and convey information. It is not a derivative of ASL, but focuses on creating a more autonomous form of communication for DeafBlind people.

To provide effective tactile language interpretation services, it is important to understand certain distinctions between interpreters and delivery methods. Read on for some tips:

• Provide tactile interpreters upon request: These interpreters specialize in providing tactile interpretation using TASL or Protactile. They possess a deep understanding of DeafBlind culture and the nuances of tactile communication. (For more information on providing visual sign language interpretation services for Deaf participants, visit the Sign Language Interpretation page on the Hub.)
• Think about the appropriate number of interpreters: The number of interpreters needed depends on factors like the event’s length, the complexity of the content, and the specific needs of the DeafBlind individual(s). Here are some additional tips:
  • Ask the interpreters: Service providers can assist in determining the appropriate number of interpreters for an event.
  • Consider comprehensive access: As one example, DeafBlind interpreting for theatrical performances often utilizes a specialized team approach. Typically, a team of four interpreters collaborates. One interpreter works directly with the DeafBlind individual, employing Protactile (PT) to convey the dialogue and nuances of the performance. A second interpreter stands behind the DeafBlind person, providing vital environmental information and feedback about the stage’s action, including movements, sound effects, and visual cues. A third interpreter supports the primary PT interpreter, ensuring smooth communication and providing assistance as needed. The fourth interpreter rests, allowing for rotation every 20 minutes to maintain interpreter focus and prevent fatigue. This collaborative method enables DeafBlind individuals to experience the full richness of the theatrical performance through detailed tactile and environmental communication.
• Consider interpreter delivery methods: Unlike other forms of accessibility, which can sometimes be set up remotely, tactile interpretation is typically delivered in person, ensuring direct physical contact for effective communication.

There are several best practices that can help ensure that all DeafBlind individuals feel welcome within your organization’s programming. These include:

• Determine interpreter needs: Proactively identify events that may require tactile interpretation, collaborating with DeafBlind individuals and community experts. Book interpreters well in advance.
• Communicate policies and processes clearly: Provide clear information about tactile interpretation requests, including timelines, procedures, and contact details.
• Respect preferences: Prioritize and accommodate specific tactile language preferences.
• Know your service providers: Establish relationships with reputable tactile interpretation service providers.
• Look for qualifications and verifications: Ensure interpreters are qualified and experienced in tactile language interpretation.
• Help interpreters prepare: Provide interpreters with relevant materials in advance, such as outlines, names, and other pertinent information. Also provide time for the interpreter and DeafBlind consumer to meet prior to the event.
• Provide an appropriate environment: Ensure that the environment allows for clear tactile communication, free from distractions.
• Consider other services: Haptic devices and other sensory aids can complement tactile interpretation but do not replace it.
• Train your staff: Provide training on DeafBlind culture and tactile communication practices.
• Remember internal accessibility: Offer tactile interpretation upon request for your internal events, meetings, and job applications. Accessibility is for staff members, too.

When staging a theatrical performance at your organization, several considerations can enhance your tactile interpretation offerings, as well as your connections with the local DeafBlind community. These include:

• Engage DeafBlind talent: Include DeafBlind actors and creatives in productions.
• Support planning and rehearsal: Allocate sufficient time for interpreters and DeafBlind performers to rehearse before a performance.
• Engage with the DeafBlind community: Partner with DeafBlind organizations to build trust and awareness. Contract with those who identify as DeafBlind.
• Be transparent and clear: Clearly communicate the availability of tactile interpretation services in all promotional materials.
• Use accessible communication channels: Utilize accessible communication methods to inform DeafBlind individuals of your performance offerings. These include downloadable transcripts of content or communications so that they can be read by refreshable braille displays, including image descriptions in marketing and social media, and collaborating with local DeafBlind community groups and event calendars to communicate within the community.

Finally, keeping larger cultural considerations in mind can help your organization engage with the DeafBlind community. Remember these tips:

• Build awareness over time: Maintain ongoing communication with the DeafBlind community and DeafBlind owned consultation businesses.
• Respect DeafBlind culture: Recognize and respect the unique culture and history of the DeafBlind community. Use identity-first language.
• Interpreter representation: Work with interpreters who understand and respect the cultural and linguistic diversity within the DeafBlind community.