Job Description: Education Transcriber

SALARY

Classified salary schedule, range 48. Initial placement shall be determined according to training and experience; maximum salary placement will be at mid-range. This position is covered by employee selected insurance plan. Benefits include holidays, vacation and sick leave.

DEFINITION

Under the direction of an assigned supervisor in special education, serve as the facilitator of communication between students who are deaf/hard of hearing and hearing persons, utilizing educationally-appropriate transcribing and printed notes of classes and meetings as assigned in and outside a classroom setting.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

Using a laptop computer with the approved transcriber program, such as TypeWell, expansion software system, transcribe classroom lessons, lectures, and discussions simultaneously during classroom presentations to support the learning of the deaf/hard of hearing students; transcribe student questions and responses. Serve as transcribing facilitator of communication between students who are deaf/hard of hearing and hearing persons. Prepare for classes by reviewing materials and adding pertinent vocabulary to the transcriber dictionary before classes/meetings; record what has been spoken in classroom/meeting while knowing the text is not verbatim, rather it is a product of condensing and summarizing the content in a meaning-for-meaning style. Handle highly sensitive information and confidential records and materials in compliance with state and federal regulations and the Transcriber's Code of Ethics. Transcribe as needed to individual or small groups of deaf/hard of hearing students; reinforce instruction as directed by the teacher. Provide transcription assistance to classroom teachers as required; assist in filing, duplicating and preparing transcription/instructional materials. Participate in and attend meetings as requested; provide transcription as requested. Maintain adaptive communication equipment in proper working condition. Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS

Education and Experience: Graduation from high school and two years experience working with deaf/hard of hearing students as an interpreter, transcriber or an instructional assistant, special education or two years college level course work related to working with deaf/hard of hearing students. Proof of an approved transcriber program, (such as TypeWell), typing speed ~ minimum of 55 words per minute with no errors.

Knowledge and Abilities

Knowledge of: Computerized methods and techniques used in communicating with the deaf and hard of hearing persons. Deafness and its effects on language acquisition and educational needs. Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary. Basic subjects taught in schools including arithmetic, reading, and writing. Santa Barbara Unified School District rules, policies and procedures. Problems and concerns of students with special needs. Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy. Ability to: Quickly acquire knowledge of the goals and objective of the Special Education Program. Type 55 wpm with no errors. Successfully complete training program provided by approved transcriber program, such as TypeWell, within specified time frame. Travel independently between campuses as necessary to perform duties. Establish and maintain effective relationships with adults and children. Perform routine clerical duties such as filing, duplicating and maintaining records. Understand and follow oral and written directions. Speak, read and write in English clearly and distinctly. Work cooperatively with others and independently as needed. Work with students individually or in small groups. Carry on normal speech and hearing activities. Use initiative and good judgment. Maintain confidentiality of information regarding students.

Licenses and Other Requirements: Incumbents in this class may be required, depending upon assignment, to possess a valid California driver’s license and insurance coverage required by law and the Santa Barbara Unified School District.

Working Conditions: Classroom environment. Dexterity of hands and fingers to type for long periods of time. Sitting or standing for extended periods of time. Hearing to listen to teachers and others and provide accurate transcriptions.