Virtual Worlds in Interpreter Training

Abstract

With translators and interpreters being increasingly expected to develop sophisticated computer skills to succeed in the translation and interpreting industries, interpreter trainers must explore new and effective ways of integrating new technologies in their courses. Virtual worlds have quickly exceeded the affordances of social networking tools and are now assuming an important place in educational settings worldwide. This article outlines the main features of a popular virtual world (Second Life) and explores how it might be used as a platform for interpreter training. After contextualizing the pedagogical use of virtual worlds within the wider approach to computer-assisted interpreter training, the article examines the advantages derived from learners’ access to multi-sensory stimuli as well as quasi-professional practice settings that Second Life facilitates. This is followed by an overview of the ways in which Second Life supports blended learning without compromising the degree and quality of practice and feedback involved in such courses. The final section outlines the main steps to cover in setting up an interpreting course using Second Life.

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