TerpTopics: ABOUT US: Introduction to ASL and Sign Language Interpreting.

TerpTopics.com was launched in July of 2008. Consequently, the volume of available content is limited as we strive for quality.

This site was initiated by a hearing professional educational interpreter in Florida, who loves ASL, sign language, interpreting, working with users of interpreter services, and who wishes to remain anonymous to avoid some of the hazards and hassles of Internet citizenship. Since inception, others have offered support and input for what we hope is becoming a quality resource.

Our vision is to offer an introduction to the world and work of sign language interpreting and to become a valuable resource of particular use to persons interested in learning American Sign Language (ASL) and becoming professional ASL/English interpreters.

TerpTopics.com was developed for the purpose of giving back to a generous and amazing community of signing professionals and consumers.

Fun gift for your favorite terp (maybe that's you!).

Believe it or not, you can actually buy a metal street sign that says Terp Drive.
(We could not get over this.) Click the sign for more information.

The opinions expressed here those of TerpTopics^™ unless otherwise stated. Please keep in mind that, while we make every effort to provide correct, appropriate, and reasonable information that is based on our experience, anecdotal experiences of others, or developed during the general course of study and professional development, we do not represent TerpTopics™ as having cornered the market on wisdom (heck, no!) or experience; one reason why links to several other good and reliable resources are made available throughout this site - we hope that earnest seekers of knowledge will take advantage of them.

Regarding language choice and communication methods: TerpTopics™ generally supports each person's right to choose. When a person's choice works for him or her, we say the choice is a good one. TerpTopics™ does not advocate for or against the use of any particular language, language code, or language mode over another, as long as it facilitates the best possible information access equality and a rich and full life for the user. TerpTopics™ does not presume to define "rich and full," because such quality of life determinations are naturally the right of each person to make for her- or himself.

TerpTopics™ holds that language fluency is essential to equal access; therefore, supports full language acquisition. Beginning at birth, each child must have the opportunity to acquire the full use of at least one natural language. Early and full language exposure is a responsibility of the primary nurturer and caregiver (parent, guardian, etc.).

We have received questions regarding our position on cochlear implants. We believe this is a matter of personal choice and do not advocate for or against their use. However, we are concerned about the apparent inadequate or incomplete information provided by the medical community to families and patients. It is our experience that well-meaning, loving, and conscientious parents want, need, and have a right to full disclosure -- before surgery. For links to some cochlear implant information on the Internet, click here, but don't stop there ... keep looking and keep asking questions.

TerpTopics^™ is an independent entity; as such, it does not claim or attempt to claim, represent, or imply by any means whatsoever that it is associated with any other entity that may or may not offer services, goods, or information of interest to interpreter, d/Deaf, or student communities.

This page was edited: 09/13/2009
This page has been visited Hit Counter times since: July 17, 2008.
TerpTopics is a trademark and service mark of TerpTopics, LLC. © 2008; 2009. All rights reserved.
TerpTopics™ is an independent entity; as such does not claim or attempt to claim, represent, or imply by any means whatsoever that it is associated with any other entity that may or may not offer services, goods, or information of interest to interpreter, Deaf, or student communities. The opinions expressed here those of TerpTopics unless otherwise stated. Please keep in mind that, while every effort is made to present correct, appropriate, and reasonable information that is based on our experience, anecdotal experiences of others, or developed during the general course of study and professional development, we do not represent TerpTopics as having cornered the market on wisdom (heck, no!) or experience; one reason why links to several other good and reliable resources are made available throughout this site, and we hope that earnest seekers of knowledge will take advantage of them.