Developing psychological skill for the global language industry

Abstract

This article presents a teaching methodology aimed at helping trainee translators and interpreters to increase their psychological skill. Psychological skill is here defined as the effects of self-efficacy, explanatory style, and locus of control, all of which shape their decision-making and courses of action. By increasing their level of psychological skill, I aim to help translators and interpreters better cope with the challenges of an increasingly automated and highly globalized profession. In particular, this article explores three general approaches for teaching and improving psychological skill, namely theoretical discussion, modelling, and role play. I will also describe examples for practical activities that might be carried out in translator/interpreter training. The overall aim of the article is to provide a research-based foundation for teachers and trainers so that they can implement teaching methodologies and strategies to help their translation/interpreting students to graduate with better psychological skill. A particular focus will be on psychological challenges arising from the globalized nature of our profession and the changes brought about by technological developments.