Abstract
According to research, new experiences that start from creating interactions such as role playing, stimulus, or group discussions are a result of participant actively learning (Terehoff, 2002). The focal point of this study is exploring a method of experiential learning while adults students learn new language. Basic understanding of early language acquisition and second language acquisition is used to better understand how and why play can be a much-needed component in the classroom. The experiential method of learning through play has been used to gain perspective about adult learning preferences in the interpreting field. The participants were American Sign Language interpreter volunteers.
Learning through play may present itself or can be used in the forms of therapy, improvisation, or board games. It creates an environment that allows interpreters to experience experiential learning and incidental learning. This method of learning allows students to become comfortable with the use of the language and make new experiences. Research shows that learning happens when there is an opportunity for previous experiences to affect the learners’ approach to new experiences (Yardley et al., 2012).
In this study, interpreting participants engaged in learning through play during an intervention. The volunteers played a game. After the intervention, the results were determined based upon the volunteers’ feedback about their playful experience with learning. The participants results were expressed in qualitative surveys to better understand the participants’ perspectives of learning through play.
Exit Requirement
Thesis
Date of Award
6-8-2022
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Interpreting Studies
Committee Chair
Amanda Smith
Committee Member
Erin Trine
Committee Member
Colleen Jones
Keywords
Play, experiential learning, interpreting, sign language
Language
eng
Type (DCMI Terms)
Text
Subject Categories
American Sign Language | First and Second Language Acquisition | Language Interpretation and Translation
Recommended Citation
Hall, K. (2022). Playfully Expanding Interpreter Development (master's thesis). Western Oregon University, Monmouth, Oregon. Retrieved from https://digitalcommons.wou.edu/theses/155
Rights Statement
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Rights Statement URL
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Included in
American Sign Language Commons, First and Second Language Acquisition Commons, Language Interpretation and Translation Commons
Rights Statement
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