Effects of Directionality on Interpreting Performance: Evidence From Interpreting Between Chinese and English by...

Area of Science:

• Cognitive science
• Linguistics
• Translation and Interpreting Studies

Background:

• Interpreting directionality (L1-L2 vs. L2-L1) influences process and outcomes.
• Understanding direction-dependent factors is crucial for interpreter training and performance analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of interpreting directionality on trainee performance.
• To analyze four quality aspects: speech rate, information completeness, delivery, and quality of expression.

Main Methods:

• Trainee interpreters performed L1-L2 and L2-L1 interpreting tasks.
• Target speeches were evaluated for speech rate, information completeness, delivery, and quality of expression.

Main Results:

• L2-L1 interpreting showed advantages in delivery and quality of expression.
• No significant difference in information completeness was observed between directions.
• L1-L2 interpreting was found to be more cognitively demanding.

Conclusions:

• Interpreting directionality significantly impacts performance quality, particularly in expression and delivery.
• Second language (L2) proficiency plays a key role in interpreting performance.
• Pedagogical strategies should consider directionality and L2 proficiency in interpreter training programs.