Convergence lecture series: the changing (inter)face of professional translation

Title of the lecture: The changing (inter)face of professional translation

Abstract: Accelerating technological developments, especially artificial intelligence, are reshaping the way professional translators work, changing processes, tasking and demand structures. The recent improvements in the quality of raw machine translation (MT) output in many language versions have created increasing demand for MT post-editing, revision and related technology-led skills, and also opened up opportunities for adaptive experts. In our work, we have focused on the realities of professional translation with respect to the ergonomic conditions in which it takes place. In addition to physical and health issues (e.g. from working with small screens) and the cognitive aspects of technology (such as overly complex interfaces), the ergonomics of translation workplaces includes social and organisational factors that can aid or constrain translators. These range from isolation and time pressure to the imposition of certain types of language technology and the support provided for it. On the basis of workplace studies carried out by our team over the past decade, we have determined, for instance, that professional translators’ resistance to the uptake of new technology has more to do with their lack of involvement in procurement decisions than with problems caused by the technology itself. We will reflect on these issues and discuss the wider implications for situated transdisciplinary (action) research and its applications.

Speakers' short bio:

Gary Massey is Director of the IUED Institute of Translation and Interpreting and former Director of its BA and MA degree programs in translation at the ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences (Switzerland). His research interests include translation process research, new profiles in human translation, translator competence and its development, translator education and trainer training.  

Maureen Ehrensberger-Dow is Professor of Translation Studies in the IUED Institute of Translation and Interpreting at the ZHAW. She teaches on both the BA and MA degree programs and has headed up several externally-funded research projects. Her main research interests are cognitive ergonomics, cognitive load, professional translation workplaces, and various types of digital literacy.  

Event details: The event will take place online on Wednesday 8 December 2021, 16:15 BST. Registration is free and can be done on this Eventbrite webpage.

More information about the Convergence lecture series can be found in this news article.