Examining Translator Candidate Students’ Strengths and Weaknesses in Note-taking System While Interpreting Consecutively

Abstract

The aim of this study is to examine translator candidate students’ strengths and weaknesses while taking notes in consecutive interpreting based on oral performance and to explore the challenges they face in the process. The present study used a case study research design in which the data were collected qualitatively. The instructional design used in the study was planned in such a way that the students would identify the challenges they experienced in consecutive interpreting, interpret the listening texts consecutively through note-taking technique, identify their strengths and weaknesses through self-assessment, and bridge the gap between their existing knowledge determined in line with their strengths and weaknesses and the knowledge intended to be acquired. Pre- and post-interviews, observation, think-aloud protocol, student diaries, portfolios, and listening texts were used to collect the data in the study. The findings obtained from the study revealed that the students could identify their strengths and weaknesses through self-assessment, bridge the gap between their existing knowledge and the knowledge intended to be acquired in the process, visualize the listening texts in their memories, and make progress in note-taking. The findings were discussed in the research context, and pedagogical implications were recommended in view of a constructivist approach to enrich the content of the note-taking training process in consecutive interpreting.