Liaison Interpreting Contexts (Social Systems, Culture and Ethics)

Please note for MBIE funding and NAATI Certification:

• For students who have MBIE entitlement notices, applications for study in Semester 2 2024 and Semester 1 2025 need to have been made by 2 April 2024 for funding eligibility.
• Please note micro-credentials are not eligible for Study link loans and allowances.

Working as a professional interpreter, it’s your job to bridge the language gap. To do this effectively, you must understand the social systems, culture and ethics that impact communication in different settings to conduct your work appropriately, confidentially, and professionally.  

Our micro-credentials in liaison interpreting are designed to be condensed in format and timeframe, giving you the introductory skills you need to move into the workplace quickly. 

To work as a liaison interpreter in Aotearoa, you’ll need to complete both of our micro-credentials: Liaison Interpreting Contexts (Systems, Culture and Ethics) and Liaison Interpreting Theory and Practice. 

In this micro-credential, you’ll develop knowledge of New Zealand’s social systems and processes, ethnic groups, interpreting code of ethics and aspects of intercultural communication. 

In the other micro-credential, Theory and Practice, you’ll learn how to apply that knowledge in interpreting situations and explore a range of employment opportunities including formal skills training to become an accredited liaison interpreter.

By completing this micro-credential, you’ll be able to identify liaison interpreting contexts and describe how they relate to the broader characteristics of New Zealand social structures and institutions. You’ll also be able to identify and implement effective interpersonal and intercultural communication strategies using cultural theoretical frameworks.

Here’s what topics this micro-credential covers:

• Interpreting needs of migrants, refugees, and tourists
• Introduction to the interpreting code of ethics
• Interpersonal communication including non-verbal communication 
• New Zealand government and community agencies including legal and healthcare systems
• Terminology (generic systems and processes vocabulary) relevant to community, medical, legal and business settings
• The role of the interpreter in Aotearoa: how the Professional Code of Practice is applied to interpreting events and critically review principles governing the conduct of the interpreter – especially in medical and legal settings. 

You’ll also develop the ability to participate ethically and effectively in personal and professional intercultural settings.

Here’s how:

• A dedicated workshop on the Te Tiriti o Waitangi (Treaty of Waitangi) focusing on two versions for translation.
• The impact of the Treaty as legislation on all aspects of public services where interpreters and translators’ work.
• Bi-cultural competence such as whanau involvement in medical, legal and social service contexts.
• Opportunities to experience Marae protocol 
• Te Reo Māori - learn and utilise common Māori words.

Programme highlights

• Current work practices. Our micro-credentials are reviewed annually to ensure they remain relevant and fit-for-purpose, meaning you can be confident you have the skills and knowledge you need to join the liaison interpreting industry.
• Blended course delivery. Learn in a variety of different ways including interactive lectures, guest speakers, role plays and simulations and practical or work-based components.
• Work experience. You’ll have the opportunity to observe interpreting in a courtroom and hospital setting.
• Face to face classes. Facilitated by experienced lecturers who will be there to guide you every step along your learning journey. 
• Student support services. As a student, you’ll be able to take advantage of our on-campus Student Support Services.
• Supportive learning environment. Become part of a close-knit group of students and staff who care about your success. 
• Weekend and evening classes. You can enrol in our Saturday and evening cohort (classes begin at 5:30) to balance your study around work and other commitments.