Attitudes, Innuendo, and Regulators: Challenges of Interpretation

Introduction

Introduction : vii Introduction The Studies in Interpretation Series that began in 2003 continues now with volume 2 in 2005. We originally proposed this series of volumes dedicated to empirical research related to interpretation and translation of signed and spoken languages because of the need for a consistent source of data-based information to relate to theoretical and applied aspects of the field for students, practitioners, consumers, researchers, and educators , both as an avenue for sharing information found and for reading the findings of other researchers. Volume 1 was international in scope, containing chapters devoted to a variety of topics, focusing on both monologic and interactive interpretation of both spoken and signed languages. Volume 2 adds to this eclectic theme, with studies of interpreting from scholars in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Although volume 2 is divided into two sections like the first volume, it looks at interpreting through a different lens. The first section focuses on working conditions and the second on interpreting practice. In the section on working conditions, Madden addresses an area often overlooked in the realm of interpretation, and particularly signed language interpretation. Madden’s study examines occupational overuse syndrome in signed language interpreters in Australia. She proposes rationale for existing problems as well as possible solutions. Also in this section, Forestal examines another aspect of interpretation that is frequently overlooked: consumers. In his study, Forestal explores attitudes of Deaf leaders toward signed language interpreters. As a growing body of research focuses on interpretation as a discourse process (cf. Wadensjö 1998; Metzger 1999; Roy 2000; and Napier 2003) embedded in social contexts, studies of social perceptions of all stakeholders takes on new meaning. Only by examining the attitudes of social actors in conjunction with the discourse process that constitutes interpretation can we begin to paint a reliable picture of what interpreters do, how to improve professional practice, and how to better prepare students to enter the field. In the second part of the volume, the focus on interpreting practice includes three chapters that, again, provide international representation. Tray provides an in-depth description of innuendo and its function in interaction. With that, he then outlines his study of the interpretation of viii : I N T R O D U C T I O N innuendo by native and non-native language users as they interpret a source text into American Sign Language. In the remaining chapters, Mather and Harrington focus on interpretation specifically in educational contexts. Mather brings an anthropological lens to her study, providing a useful focus on the role of visually based regulators. She not only provides a description of the ways in which these were employed by interpreters, but also practical recommendations regarding their use by interpreters in mostly hearing, English-based classrooms, Harrington takes a broader focus examining several themes that occur in his study of interpreters in the United Kingdom. In keeping with the spirit of this series, all chapters provide a clearer picture of interpretation resulting from data-based studies and also raise new questions on which future research can focus. It is our hope that this volume, and subsequent volumes, will support the growth of data-based research in the field of interpretation. As practitioners increasingly find support from agencies in conducting interpreting research and as partnerships in data-collection and analysis are forged, practitioners, researchers, students, and ultimately consumers stand to benefit from gains both in theoretical and applied understanding of our work as it relates to the most practical, everyday aspects of interpretation and translation services. Thanks are due to many who have made this volume of the series a reality. Thank you to Ivey Wallace and to Deirdre Mullervy for their hard work and for their patience. Thanks also to Valerie Dively, Steven Collins, Risa Shaw, Cynthia Roy, and Karen Malcolm for their time and expertise. Few people are fortunate to have such a warm, talented, and experienced group of colleagues, and for this we are grateful. Thanks also to the students in the Master of Arts in Interpretation program at Gallaudet University for their interest in these topics and in the process of scholarship as it applies to interpretation. Appreciation is also due those who contributed to this volume and to the interpreters and consumers who were willing to participate in their research. Without such valuable resources, we could not extend our understanding of what we do. Finally, thank you Eric and Jill for patiently reading drafts and providing comments, and to Dawson...