Interpretation is of two types: simultaneous and consecutive. The term ‘simultaneous interpretation’ is self-explanatory. In it, the interpreter speaks simultaneously, translating to the target language while listening to the original message in the source language. In consecutive interpretation, the interpreter listens to chunks of the message in the original language and interprets at intervals. For this, the interpreter may either take notes (in notations or short forms) so that long passages may be interpreted accurately, or may rely on memory to interpret shorter messages.
Table of Contents
1 The basics
1.1 Practise often - 5 days per week
1.2 Be aware of what type of practice is best for you - 2 x 30 minutes in one day, am. then pm. may be better than 1x 60 minutes etc.
1.3 Practice does not have to be interpreting to be useful.
1.4 Don’t practise if you don't want to
2 Material used should be appropriate for the stage of the course and for interpretation purposes.
3 Practise in groups of 2-4 for consecutive, 3-6 for simultaneous (minimum 3 = 1 speaking, 1 interpreting, one listening).
4 Always practice with a specific aim.
5 Analyse problems encountered and how you dealt with them.
6 Interpret - take comments - interpret again.
7 Remind yourself of technique issues.
8 Keep a logbook in which to note comments made about your interpreting performances.
9 Keep a logbook in which to note ways of interpreting certain common expressions and ideas that do not lend themselves ready translation (no cognates) or also to note particularly good renderings of expressions from one language in another.
10 Record everything and listen to at least some of your own output - correct it!
Objectives and Topics
The primary objective of this text is to provide practical pedagogical guidelines for students learning simultaneous and consecutive interpretation. It addresses how to maximize the efficiency of practice sessions, the importance of goal-oriented training, and the necessity of self-analysis to improve performance and manage psychological pressure during the interpreting process.
- Methodological approaches to organizing interpretation practice sessions.
- The distinction between simultaneous and consecutive interpretation techniques.
- Strategic use of feedback and peer evaluation.
- Gradual progression of source material complexity for training.
- Techniques for error analysis and performance self-improvement.
Excerpt from the Book
How to practice interpretation
There follow certain ideas, which aim to maximize the benefits gained from time spent practising interpreting. These ideas are based on very straightforward pedagogical principles and a certain amount of common sense. The structures suggested also show the value of time spent not interpreting. Too often we simply go into the booth and interpret, engaging in no other practice activity, or analysis of our work, unaware of the fact that the skills that go to make up interpreting can be practised in isolation.
The ideas expressed in this section of the text should be the foundation for the exercises described in parts V and VI, Practice exercises for Consecutive and Simultaneous Interpreting.
1 The basics
1.1 Practise often - 5 days per week
1.2 Be aware of what type of practice is best for you - 2 x 30 minutes in one day, am. then pm. may be better than 1x 60 minutes etc.
1.3 Practice does not have to be interpreting to be useful.
1.4 Don’t practise if you don't want to
Summary of Chapters
1 The basics: This section provides fundamental principles for establishing a consistent and effective practice routine for aspiring interpreters.
2 Material used should be appropriate for the stage of the course and for interpretation purposes.: This chapter outlines the importance of selecting suitable source material, emphasizing a natural progression from personal narratives to complex abstract speeches.
3 Practise in groups of 2-4 for consecutive, 3-6 for simultaneous (minimum 3 = 1 speaking, 1 interpreting, one listening).: Discusses the group dynamics of training, emphasizing the value of peer feedback and objective analysis of performance.
4 Always practice with a specific aim.: Highlights the necessity of isolating specific skills—such as intonation or fluency—to maintain motivation and ensure measurable progress.
5 Analyse problems encountered and how you dealt with them.: Focuses on the methodology of post-practice reflection to identify and overcome recurring technical difficulties.
6 Interpret - take comments - interpret again.: Explains the value of immediate iterations in the booth to correct errors while the source content remains fresh in memory.
7 Remind yourself of technique issues.: Suggests using simple visual cues during practice to avoid common technical pitfalls like excessive filler sounds.
8 Keep a logbook in which to note comments made about your interpreting performances.: Recommends tracking performance evolution and recurring issues through structured documentation.
9 Keep a logbook in which to note ways of interpreting certain common expressions and ideas that do not lend themselves ready translation (no cognates) or also to note particularly good renderings of expressions from one language in another.: Focuses on building a personal lexicon for cultural nuances and non-literal expressions.
10 Record everything and listen to at least some of your own output - correct it!: Stresses the role of self-listening and dictaphone usage as an essential tool for professional development.
Keywords
Simultaneous interpretation, consecutive interpretation, interpreting pedagogy, language training, performance analysis, peer feedback, skill isolation, interpreter training, source material, professional development, note-taking, translation techniques, intonation, fluency, language practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this text?
The text focuses on pedagogical strategies for individuals learning the techniques of simultaneous and consecutive interpretation.
What are the central themes discussed?
Key themes include the importance of structured practice, goal-oriented training, the role of feedback, and the psychological aspects of interpreting.
What is the core research question or objective?
The objective is to provide a practical framework that helps students maximize their learning efficiency and improve their professional interpreting skills.
Which scientific or pedagogical methods are used?
The author advocates for isolated skill training, regular peer-reviewed practice, and analytical self-reflection on performance.
What topics are covered in the main section?
The main section covers the selection of appropriate practice material, group dynamics, effective use of feedback, and long-term skill tracking through logbooks.
Which keywords best characterize the work?
Keywords include simultaneous interpretation, consecutive interpretation, language pedagogy, performance analysis, and interpreter training.
Why is a gradual progression of material complexity recommended?
Starting with personal narratives and moving to political speeches ensures that the student develops fundamental skills before tackling more abstract or fast-paced content.
What role does the logbook play in the training process?
The logbook allows students to track recurring technical issues and vocabulary challenges, enabling them to visualize progress and identify specific areas for improvement.
How should feedback be integrated into practice?
Feedback should be provided by peers or mentors and ideally followed by an immediate opportunity to re-interpret the same material to reinforce corrections.
- Arbeit zitieren
- Katharina Eder (Autor:in), 2008, Translation and Interpretation, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.hausarbeiten.de/document/172593
