A person who has taken a few basic sign language classes or who has been taught some sign language by a Deaf friend or relative is considered to be a “signer”. That person is able communicate with people who are deaf on a basic or possibly even on a fluent level but have not received adequate interpreter training.  Most professional interpreters have been through some type of formal training such as an Interpreter Training Program, advanced interpreting classes, and/or interpreting workshops. Professional interpreters have also been evaluated with skill and knowledge assessments and/or evaluations.