Chapter 9 - Interpreting Services

Sign language interpreting services may be requested for OSU classes, class-related activities, and events/activities open to students.

Disability Access Services (DAS) provides qualified interpreters per the state of Oregon regulations. Interpreters working for DAS must also abide by the NAD-RID Code of Professional Conduct.

Student Responsibilities

  • Request sign language interpreting through the DAS Student Portal, particularly for custom requests.
  • Cancel or modify requests for accommodations through the DAS Student Portal if withdrawing from a course or if services are not needed.
  • Email the interpreters and [email protected]:
    • when absent from class(es)
    • if the instructor cancels class on a particular day.
    • if there is a classroom change. If DAS and the interpreter(s) are not informed, the interpreters will go to the original location.
  • Ask a classmate for a copy of the notes if you do not attend class.
  • The interpreter(s) will wait up to 15 minutes outside the classroom or online if a student is late to class. After 15 minutes, the interpreter(s) will leave.

Timeline for Interpreting Requests

For custom requests, a minimum of 72 hours (three business days) advance notice is requested; one-week advance notice is preferred. Please do not make requests directly to interpreters since interpreters must have prior approval from DAS before they are assigned.

Academic/Class-Related Program Requests

Please check the class syllabus for information concerning field trips, extra credit opportunities, study abroad programs, and other activities that will require accommodations outside the classroom or regular class hours. Requests for accommodations should be made through the custom request form in the Communication Access section of the DAS Student Portal.

Class-related special events may also include the following:

  • Instructor assigned out of class activities (e.g. attending a theatrical production, attending a guest lecture, etc.)
  • SI Tables
  • Student resource or career fairs
  • Instructor scheduled review sessions before an exam
  • Meetings outside of class sessions to complete a group project

Non-Class-Related Interpreting Requests

Interpreters can be requested for non-class-related events by completing the custom request form in the Communication Access section which can be accessed through the DAS Student Portal.

Non-class-related interpreting requests include and are not limited to the following:

  • Meeting with instructors during office hours
  • Meeting with academic advisors
  • Meeting with a CAPS therapist/counselor
  • Participating in student clubs/organizations
  • Residence hall floor meetings

OSU-Sponsored Events

If a student would like to attend an OSU-sponsored event, and it is not a course-related assignment, please identify the name and contact information of the sponsor to whom requests for accommodations can be made on the flyer or marketing materials. If this information is not available, students may contact [email protected]. Examples of these events are as follows:

  • A guest lecture
  • A webinar or workshop
  • An artistic, theatrical, or musical event at the PRAx Center

Working with Interpreters

  • Please see the NAD-RID Code of Professional Conduct for information regarding the role of an interpreter.
  • Names and email addresses of assigned interpreters can be found by clicking the Communication Access link under My Accommodations in the DAS Student Portal.
  • The student and the interpreter(s) should agree on technical or specialized sign vocabulary. If there are specific sign or style preferences, the student should communicate them to the interpreter(s).
  • If the student is scheduled to do a class presentation, provide a copy of the presentation notes to the interpreter(s). The student will also need to schedule time to meet with the interpreter(s) in advance to rehearse/go over the presentation.
  • Request clarification from the instructor, not the interpreter(s), regarding course content.
  • Please note that the interpreter(s) may not be available to interpret additional questions or comments after the class session ends as the interpreter may need to travel to their next assignment.
  • The student should discuss concerns related to the interpreter/interpreting process by emailing [email protected] or making an appointment with Communication Access Services.

Concerns/Complaints about Service Providers

Clear communication between students who receive services through DAS, their service providers (interpreters), and appropriate DAS staff is vital to utilizing the DAS program effectively. For concerns related to a service provider:

  • If the student is comfortable/able to meet with the service provider, the student is encouraged to meet with the service provider to discuss concerns directly. 
  • If the student is not comfortable meeting with the service provider directly or the issue remains unresolved please contact your DAS adviser. For Interpreters or Transcribers, please contact the Communication Access Manager at [email protected], or by calling 541-737-4098.

Page updated: 1/2026