Elements of Transcultural and Translinguistic Research: A Personal Experience

Abstract

Prior to undertaking the exploration of phenomena in a research study with people from different cultures, certain elements must be addressed in order to bridge cultural and linguistic differences. In this article, the authors explore some of these elements, with specific reference to personal experiences in a research study done in Italy, the results of which will not be presented here. Elements discussed include: transcultural/translinguistic literature review, protection of human subjects, translinguistics, maintaining necessary and appropriate contact with persons at the research site, presentation of research to participants, structuring interviews, and post-session amenities.