INTRODUCTION
Rationale of the research
Interpreting plays a crucial role in facilitating trade and travel between countries by enhancing communication at international conferences and meetings It allows participants to share ideas and understand diverse perspectives without language barriers As a result, many nations prioritize the training of skilled interpreters through various studies and programs However, in Vietnam, this practice remains relatively new and has not garnered significant attention from experts and scholars.
Professional interpreters must master various skills, with note-taking being crucial for their success This essential technique enhances memory efficiency and streamlines the interpreting process, particularly in consecutive interpreting Developing an effective note-taking system is vital for aspiring interpreters While previous research has explored note-taking, it primarily focused on general knowledge and its impact on student performance, rather than providing in-depth insights into the specific challenges interpreters face with this skill.
The study on "Professional interpreters' note-taking in consecutive interpreting" aims to explore effective note-taking strategies by analyzing the notes of professional interpreters This research is designed to offer practical guidance for students seeking to enhance their note-taking skills in the field of interpretation.
Research aims and research questions
This study offers a theoretical foundation on note-taking in consecutive interpreting, aimed at enhancing the understanding of students in the Translation and Interpreting Division at the University of Languages and International Studies, Vietnam National University It emphasizes the importance of note-taking as a critical skill in interpreting Additionally, the research analyzes the note-taking techniques used by professional interpreters with practical experience, providing insights to help students refine their own note-taking abilities The study seeks to answer key questions related to these themes.
Question 1: What is interpreters’ choice of form for their notes (language vs symbols)?
Question 2: Which language do interpreters use for their notes?
Question 3: What are the contents of interpreters’ notes?
Question 4: What are implications for note-taking in training interpreting students?
Significance of the research
This study, while limited in scale, aims to assist students and individuals interested in interpreting and translation, particularly in the area of note-taking skills By providing a thorough analysis of professional interpreters' notes, it seeks to enhance students' understanding of effective note-taking techniques and their practical applications.
LITERRATURE REVIEW
Interpreting
2.1.1 Definition ccording to armen ill n and Francesca artrina (2013), interpreting is a service which is provided to meet the requirement of the participants in communication settings Therefore, interpreting occurs during cross-cultural communication when people do not share the same set of language and cultural experiences or expectations By bridging the gap between languages, the interpreter fulfills the function of conveying semantic elements, intentions and feelings of the message that the source-language speaker is directing to target-language recipients Interpreting is “a form of translation in which a first and final rendition in another language is produced on the basis of a one-time presentation of an utterance in a source language” (Pửchhacker, 2004, p 133) The main distinguishing feature is its immediacy in which “the source-language text is presented only once and thus cannot be reviewed or replayed, and the target-language text is produced under time pressure, with little chance for correction and revision” (Pửchhacker, 2004, p
In the interpreting process, the interpreter follows three essential steps: comprehension, conversion, and delivery (Hale, 2007, p 14) Initially, the interpreter listens to the source-language text to grasp its meaning Next, they make strategic mental choices to determine the most appropriate and accurate rendition in the target language.
5 language”, (Hale, 2007, p 21) Finally, he delivers “the verbal output after the previous two phases has been completed” (Hale, 2007, p 24)
Interpreting and translating are two related linguistic disciplines aimed at conveying messages across languages, but they differ in their modes of expression Translation involves converting meaning from a source-language text to a target-language text, whether in written or recorded form In contrast, interpreting facilitates real-time communication by converting spoken language into its equivalent or approximate equivalent in another language.
Interpreting can be categorized based on various criteria, including working modes, settings, and subject matters The two predominant modes of interpreting are consecutive and simultaneous Consecutive interpreting involves rendering speech after a few sentences, relying on memory rather than notes, while simultaneous interpreting occurs in real-time, with the interpreter conveying the message almost concurrently with the speaker Despite their differences, both modes serve as tools to address the specific needs of various situations (Jones, 2002; Armen illn & Francesca Artrina, 2013).
Simultaneous interpreting involves the interpreter quickly rendering the message from the source language into the target language while the speaker continues to talk According to Lambert and Moser-Mercer (1994), this practice focuses on conveying the meaning of an utterance rather than achieving linguistic equivalence It presents both cognitive and linguistic challenges, as interpreters must process information rapidly and juggle multiple tasks simultaneously They need to analyze a continuous flow of information and convey it in real-time, ensuring clarity and proper pacing for listeners Additionally, interpreters cannot request repetition or clarification, making it crucial to accurately express the original meaning Despite these challenges, simultaneous interpreting serves as an efficient method for multilingual communication, enabling participants in international meetings to engage in their native languages and setting a standard for communication in global organizations.
Gile (2001) highlights that consecutive interpreting allows interpreters to listen to and understand complete ideas before delivering their interpretation This mode involves the interpreter conveying either a portion or the entirety of the message in the target language after the speaker in the source language has paused or finished speaking.
Training in Interpreting, views consecutive interpreting as a process consisting of two separable phases
CI = L (listening) + M (short-term memory) + N (note-taking)
During this phase, the interpreter remains close to the speaker, actively listening and taking selective notes as the speech unfolds Note-taking is an essential and integral aspect of this initial stage of interpretation.
CI = R (remember) + R (read the notes) + P (produce the speech in the target language)
In the second phase, the interpreter reproduces a target-language speech from memory as well as from notes
Consecutive interpreting, while more time-consuming than simultaneous interpreting, is favored for its accuracy in high-stakes meetings where precision is crucial This method is commonly employed in settings such as press conferences and after-dinner speeches, where even minor errors can have significant consequences.
Note-taking in consecutive interpreting
Note-taking in consecutive interpreting is essential for retaining and interpreting messages effectively, as it captures the speaker's intentions and emotions (Meifang, 2012) This technique alleviates the burden on the interpreter's working memory, which has limitations in short-term retention By jotting down key elements like proper names, numbers, and figures, interpreters can offload information and avoid losing critical details Additionally, effective note-taking aids in retrieving information from long-term memory, where notes act as valuable "clues" for recalling main ideas and supporting details accurately.
Effective note-taking in consecutive interpreting is crucial for maintaining high-quality performance, as an overemphasis on note-taking can detract from memory retention A fundamental principle is that memory should take precedence, with notes serving as a supplementary tool Key guidelines and techniques for note-taking are detailed in the works of Herbert (1952) and Rozan (1956), with Rozan's book offering comprehensive insights and practical exercises focused solely on the note-taking process.
Clear and logically organized notes help interpreters avoid confusion and easily retrieve information Utilizing abbreviations and symbols is a common and effective method for storing information, with a long-standing history in note-taking practices These strategies not only enhance efficiency but also save time when capturing various concepts However, each interpreter develops a unique note-taking style that reflects their preferences for abbreviations, symbols, layout, and language.
Abbreviations are widely utilized in both academic and nonacademic writing due to their ability to save time An abbreviation is a shortened form of a word or phrase, such as "abbreviation" being represented as abbr., abbrv., or abbrev The methods of creating abbreviations can vary among interpreters based on individual rules, which can lead to confusion for those unfamiliar with them According to Rozan's guidelines, words longer than four letters should be abbreviated by using the first and last letters, minimizing ambiguity For instance, the abbreviation "Con" can be interpreted in multiple ways if not clearly defined.
„concept‟ to „confirmation‟, or „concur‟, or „contribution‟ bbreviation is then only a partial solution: con cpt may be better rendered as „idea‟, „concur‟ becomes
Abbreviations enhance clarity and conciseness in writing For example, "OK" signifies approval, while "conf mn" and "contr bn" are likely understood Terms like "Insti." can refer to either "Institute" or "Institution," making "Ins te" and "Ins on" clearer alternatives Rozan (2002) recommends shortening lengthy expressions by using concise synonyms, such as replacing "which is worth looking at" with "int g" (interesting) and "In order to arrive at some conclusions" with "to end." Additionally, "Taking into account the situation at the present time" can be abbreviated to "sit ion now." Commonly used abbreviations facilitate effective communication.
Abbreviations Meaning w/ with (something) w/o without w/i within i.e what is e.g for example etc et cetera, so forth b/c because b/4 before re: regarding, about esp especially min minimum max maximum gov‟t government
ASAP as soon as possible wrt write rt right yr/ yrs year/ years vs versus, as opposed to ch chapter
A Answer ex example wd/ wds word/ words ref reference diff difference no Number ht height wt weight
Table 1: List of Commonly Used Abbreviations
Using acronyms is also considered as a way of abbreviating, which is formed from the first letters of other words and pronounced as they are spelled, not as
12 separate letters Many of acronyms are widely accepted in the official name of organizations, agencies, etc because of its convenience 1
SRV Socialist Republic of Viet Nam
GOV Government of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam
MND Ministry of National Defence
MPS Ministry of Public Security
MOFA Ministry of Foreign Affairs
MOIT Ministry of Industry and Trade
MOLISA Ministry of Labour, War invalids and Social Affairs
MIC Ministry of Information and Communications
MOET Ministry of Education and Training
MARD Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development
MPI Ministry of Planning and Investment
MOHA Ministry of Home Affairs
MOST Ministry of Science and Technology
MOCST Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism
MONRE Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment
SBV The State Bank of Viet Nam
CEMA Committee for Ethnic Affairs
GO Office of the Government
Table 2: List of Names of Vietnamese Agencies and Offices in Acronyms
It goes without saying that the country abbreviations and acronyms are useful in many spheres of life, especially when the interpreter is at a wide range of
1 Retrieved from http://www.vnu.edu.vn/ttsk/?C2095/N10239/Huong-dan-dich on February 10 th 2013
13 conferences with representative from all over the world The following table consists of names of some common countries according to ISO 3166-1 alpha-
2 Retrieved from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISO_3166-1_alpha-2 on February 10 th 2013
Table 3: List of Names of Countries in Abbreviations and Acronyms
Symbols serve as a powerful means to convey the meaning of words, encompassing marks, signs, or numbers with established significance These systems of symbols are prominently utilized in various fields, including science, mathematics, and music Additionally, interpreters often develop their own symbols, such as using a square to represent specific concepts or ideas.
Symbols, such as the plus sign representing "add" or "contribute," are valuable tools in communication as they transcend language barriers and reduce interference from the source language According to Gillies (2007, p 125), symbols can be written and read more quickly and easily than words, effectively representing concepts rather than specific terms A notable example of this is the use of up and down arrows, as highlighted by Rozan (p 29).
↑ duties = an increase in duties
↑ living st anrd = an improvement in the standard of living
↓ purchasing power = a reduction on purchasing power
↓ civilization = the fall of a civilization
Lexical items have been streamlined to their core components, highlighting their unique features This approach allows a single symbol to represent a wide array of synonyms and contextual variations within a semantic cluster (e.g., increase, development, progress, expansion), with meaning shaped by context However, excessive use of symbols is discouraged, as it can lead to confusion for the interpreter, resulting in a "page full of signs that have to be deciphered" (Rozan, 2002, p 25) Among the symbols, arrows and mathematical symbols are noted for their versatility, as detailed in the accompanying table.
→ lead to, produce, cause, make
← receive from; import; return; derive from, come from, is the result of, etc
↑ increase, rise, progress, improvement, etc
↓ decline, fall, decrease, reduction, slow-down
+ plus, in addition, and, also
“ Express, declare, state, maintain, say, announce
Table 4: List of Commonly Used Symbols
Like abbreviations, there are no common rules for forming symbols The interpreter can create his own system of symbols to ensure its consistency and meaningfulness
An effective note layout enhances information retrieval by utilizing the positioning of signs, symbols, and abbreviations to convey additional meanings such as parallelism and cause-effect relationships Rozan (2002) identifies two key principles for achieving this layout: vertical lists and diagonal arrangements, which he describes as the "backbone of the note-taking system" (p 20) Vertical lists are particularly useful for organizing elements of equal value, such as subjects, verbs, or objects, allowing for logical grouping of ideas and improved text clarity This vertical arrangement not only facilitates quick searches of past notes but also supports the integration of various note-taking techniques, making it easier to write efficiently.
“Since the French, US and UK delegations have suggested …”
Organizing separate ideas on different lines enhances the re-expression of information According to Rozan's definition, "shift" involves writing notes on a lower line where they would have appeared if the text above had been repeated (Rozan, 2002, p 22) He emphasizes that a diagonal layout aids in creating a more accurate and comprehensive version of the text, illustrating this concept through numerous examples.
1954, prices rose, although not to the same extent as income, thus the population‟s net income increased” is noted as follows
Word for word on the first line: Over the course of 1954, prices rose,
Word for word on the second line: although not to the same extent as,
Word for word on the third line: thus the population‟s net income increased
As information is organized l ogically and clearly, diagonal layout and vertical lists can help to accelerate the rendition of information
Choosing the language for note-taking is crucial for the quality of interpreting Researchers have differing views on this topic Some interpreters advocate for using the target language, arguing that it helps them focus on the content rather than the surface form of the source speech, thus enhancing text processing and facilitating the production of target language speech (Dam, 2004) Conversely, others prefer to take notes in the source language to minimize cognitive load during the listening phase While Rozan (2002) leans towards note-taking in the target language, he notes that it is not strictly necessary Gile (1995) also contributes to this discussion, highlighting the complexities involved in the choice of language for effective interpreting.
The article discusses the debate over the effectiveness of using a target language, highlighting that there is no definitive conclusion on which language is superior It points out two main reasons against using the target language: first, that trying to find equivalents in the source language while listening can consume additional cognitive resources; and second, it suggests that this approach may hinder overall comprehension.
“increases risks of saturation” (Gile, 1995, p 179) However, he also adds that
Without empirical evidence, determining which theoretical position holds more practical value is challenging (Gile, 1995, p 179) Therefore, selecting a target or source language is not crucial Interpreters can utilize different languages in varying contexts, as long as they find them appropriate and effective.
Effective note-taking for interpreters hinges on selecting key information due to time constraints A skilled interpreter uses notes to capture essential cues, allowing them to focus on the overall meaning of the message rather than getting bogged down by specific words and structures Therefore, grasping the main ideas of the speech is crucial before taking notes Additionally, noting the connections between ideas is important for understanding their relationships Since proper names, numbers, and lists can be challenging to retain in short-term memory, effective notes can significantly aid in recalling this information.
Main ideas serve as the foundation of a speech, encapsulating the essential points the speaker aims to communicate As noted by Rozan (2002), interpreters must focus on identifying and clearly noting these major ideas while simplifying the information This skill enables interpreters to create a "skeleton outline" of the speech, allowing them to reproduce the core concepts effectively By linking important ideas, interpreters can easily recall the speech's organization Furthermore, Rozan emphasizes the importance of interpreters freeing themselves from the constraints of specific language words to enhance their interpretative accuracy.
METHODOLOGY
Selection of subjects
This study focuses on three Vietnamese professional interpreters, each with a minimum of five years of experience in consecutive interpreting The selection criteria for these interpreters include their practical experience in the field and their diverse skill sets Their insights will provide valuable references for students aiming to enhance their interpreting knowledge and skills.
Data collection instruments
In this study, the research uses two main instruments namely document data analysis and semi-interview
The first instrument utilizes a qualitative methodology, emphasizing the collection and analysis of in-depth information rather than numerical data This approach is preferred by researchers for its focus on the richness of data, often gathered through methods such as interviews, focus groups, participant observation, and oral histories (Murray & Hughes, 2008) Data collection primarily involves observational techniques, where the researcher immerses themselves in the research setting to systematically observe various dimensions of the subject matter (Manson, 1996).
23 setting, interactions, relationships, actions, events and so on.” (Manson, 1996, p
60) Then, the date is analyzed to discuss the findings in chapter 4
Open-ended questions in semi-structured interviews can provide valuable insights and guidance In this study, the researcher collaborated with two experienced teachers who are also professional interpreters to gather their opinions and suggestions for enhancing note-taking skills among interpreting students To ensure the authenticity and validity of the data collected, all interviews were conducted in English.
Data collection procedures
The procedure of data collection consists of three main phases
In Phase 1 of the research, the investigator gathered notes and audio recordings from professional interpreters engaged in consecutive interpreting and developed interview questions for these interpreters Initially scheduled to last from February 5 to March 30, the data collection phase was extended until April 20 due to an insufficient number of collected notes.
In the second phase, the researcher analyzed data collected from the first phase, focusing on criteria such as the form of notes (language versus symbols), the language of notes (source or target language), and the content of notes (main ideas, links, and non-contextualized information) The data, gathered in either Vietnamese or English, included audio recordings that were transcribed to aid the analytical process The data underwent mathematical treatment for counting and calculation, culminating in a report detailing the quantitative data analyses.
The analysis of 24 pieces of information from interpreter notes revealed effective note-taking techniques used by professional interpreters, providing valuable insights into the subjects discussed.
In the third phase, the researcher conducted semi-structured interviews with professional interpreters to gain insights into their note-taking skills, which are essential for enhancing the training of interpreting students.
FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION
Interpreters‟ choice of forms for their notes (language vs symbols)
According to Dam (2004), the analysis of note forms categorized them into three types: full words, abbreviations and acronyms, and symbols Table 6 illustrates the distribution of the analyzed notes across these categories.
Table 6: Distribution of interpreters’ notes over the categories of note forms
The average distribution of the three interpreters' notes across three types of note forms is illustrated in the bottom row of Table 6 Notably, the most preferred method was the use of abbreviations and acronyms, accounting for 37.8% of all note units, followed by full forms.
26 words were the second preference (36.2%), while the subjects as a group tended to use symbols to a small extent in their notes (26%)
The study revealed varied note-taking preferences among individual subjects, despite some overarching trends The first two subjects showed a strong inclination towards abbreviations and acronyms, with preferences of 47.1% and 43.4%, respectively However, their approaches differed significantly; subject 1 favored full words over symbols (30.9% vs 22%), while subject 2 preferred symbols over full words (30% vs 26.6%) In contrast, subject 3 predominantly used full words (51.1%), with abbreviations and acronyms at 20% and symbols at 28.9%.
In summary, the results from the three subjects revealed a similar distribution of symbols, with some interpreters favoring abbreviations and symbols while others preferred full words These variations in note-taking preferences can be attributed to the individual personalities, characteristics, and habits of the interpreters For instance, interpreters with a passion for mathematics or cryptography are more likely to utilize abbreviations and symbols in their notes.
While this study does not yield definitive conclusions, exploring the note-taking techniques used is valuable It's important to recognize that not every word can be effectively represented by symbols or signs, and the process of writing can be time-consuming.
Abbreviating long words or phrases is an effective strategy for quickly noting key terms, especially in interpreting contexts For instance, "Technical assistance" is abbreviated as "HTKT" in Vietnamese and "T" in English While these abbreviations may seem meaningless to the general public, interpreters understand their specific meanings, as they are familiar with the context In Vietnamese, longer phrases are often shortened by using the initial letters of the first words and the full form of the last word This practice is illustrated in Table 7, which showcases the abbreviations commonly employed by professional interpreters.
Abbreviations Words or phrases Meaning in English
Importance is crucial in addressing demands effectively Problem-solving skills are essential for resolving issues, while cooperation and teamwork enhance productivity Additionally, having the necessary capabilities is vital for achieving success in any endeavor.
Cphí Chi phí Cost Đtư Đầu tư Investment
Cphủ Chính phủ Government d/án Dự án Project
Ncứu Nghiên cứu Research tchế Thể chế Institution đviết Đọc viêt Reading and writing tg tác Tương t c To interact c/chế ơ chế Machenism
Xxét Xem xét consider mbạch Minh bạch Transparency
Ctiêu Chi tiêu Spending c/lg Chất lượng Quality
V Tchế Vật liệu tái chế Recycled material hđộc Chất độc Toxic substance
Table 7: List of Abbreviations used by interpreters
Subjects utilized the technique of forming acronyms from the initial letters of words in both English and Vietnamese, primarily for noun phrases The table below showcases some common acronyms frequently used by the participants in their notes.
Acronyms Meaning in Vietnamese Meaning in English h/s Học sinh Student
HTKT/ TA Hỗ trợ kĩ thuật Technical assistance
FA Hỗ trợ tài chính Financial assistance
NTP hương trình ục tiêu Quốc gia National Target Program
MPI Bộ Kế hoạch và Đầu tư Ministry of Planning and
TT Đ Thị trường lao động Labor market
VAT Thuế giá trị gia tăng Value Added Tax
HCM Hồ Chí Minh Ho Chi Minh City
EU Liên minh Châu Âu European Union
Table 8: List of Acronyms used by interpreters
Abbreviations and acronyms have become essential in both interpretation and everyday communication, particularly on social media Their convenience and efficiency have solidified their role as a fundamental component of modern language.
Symbols serve as an effective means of conveying concepts more swiftly and easily than words Matyssek (1989) notes in "Interpreting" that a language-free notation system allows interpreters to transcend the limitations of language structures, as symbols embody ideas rather than words In this study, arrows were the primary symbols used, with the right arrow indicating consequences or results.
30 arrow indicated the increase or raise In addition, the symbol “ ” was a illustration of “change”; “≠” was of “other” or “various” or “different”; “%” was of
Rozan (2002) advises against the excessive use of symbols, such as “>” to indicate “more than,” as they can obstruct information retrieval and hinder the clarity of ideas expressed in notes Limiting symbol usage enhances the interpretive process and improves communication effectiveness.
Although full words were not encouraged to use in notes, it was the second note form preference of the subjects as a group, even the most favorable form of notes
It is essential to understand the rationale behind using full words in translation According to Rozan (2002, p 16), words with more than four letters should be abbreviated, while key terms with fewer than three letters should be fully written out to prevent misunderstandings Additionally, technical terms, such as "hành thu" and "ngẫu nhiên hóa học," as well as proper nouns like the names of companies, organizations, or individuals, should be used in their complete form This approach ensures clarity and maintains the quality of translation, making it easier for interpreters to comprehend and retrieve information accurately.
Language to note
This research aims to investigate interpreters' language choices for note-taking, focusing specifically on the use of full words, abbreviations, and acronyms, while excluding symbols due to their language-neutral nature The analysis categorizes these choices based on either the source or target language.
31 this study, the source language and the target language are both English and Vietnamese
Figure 1: The distribution of interpreters’ notes over language
The data presented in Figure 1 indicates a consistent trend across three subjects regarding language use Notably, there is a significant preference for taking notes in the target language, which constitutes over half of the total language utilized in the interpreters' notes These findings highlight the interpreters' inclination towards the target language in their note-taking process.
Interpreters 2 and 3 displayed notable similarities in their language usage, favoring the target language over the source language with percentages of 58.3% to 41.7% and 56.2% to 43.8%, respectively Despite this preference, both interpreters maintained a balanced approach to using both languages Interpreter 1's notes clearly reflected a strong inclination towards the target language, comprising 72.5% of all notes, while the source language accounted for 27.5% This trend indicates a clear preference among interpreters for utilizing the target language in their work.
The study highlights that forcing interpreters to move away from the surface form of the source language can enhance text processing and improve target speech production (Gyde Hansen, Kirsten Malmkjaer, Daniel Gile, 2004, p 156) However, it is crucial to note that the findings are preliminary and should not be generalized to other interpreters or languages, as the analysis may not provide a sufficient basis for broader conclusions.
The choice of language in note-taking by interpreters primarily depends on their language combination, as they often opt for the language that allows for quicker and easier note-taking This approach helps conserve memory capacity for other tasks during the note-taking phase Although there are differing opinions on the importance of language selection, it appears that, in practice, this issue is not as significant as it may seem.
Contents of notes
This section focuses on three key elements of note content: main ideas, links, and non-contextualized information, which encompasses dates, numbers, lists, and proper names.
Contents of notes Interpreter 1 Interpreter 2 Interpreter 3
Table 9: Distribution of interpreters’ notes over contents of notes
The three key elements discussed are crucial for forming the foundation of an original speech, aiding interpreters in visualizing its content However, a significant gap exists between theory and practice, as evidenced by the uneven distribution of these elements in the notes of the interpreters studied The data revealed that interpreters rarely recorded links between ideas, averaging less than 10%, likely because these links were not deemed essential for conveying the message Skilled professional interpreters, with strong short-term memory and analytical abilities, can often remember the logical flow of a speech without extensive note-taking The study highlighted that interpreters primarily focused on main ideas and non-contextualized information, with notable differences in their note-taking preferences For instance, Interpreter 1 favored main ideas (69.6%) over non-contextualized information (30.4%), while Interpreter 2 preferred the latter, with 66.7% of notes consisting of non-contextualized information and only 25% for main ideas Interpreter 3 balanced both elements, recording 51.2% main ideas and 43.8% non-contextualized information These varying note-taking strategies reflect differences in memory capacity and the nature of information being conveyed, particularly when faced with non-contextual data like economic indices or historical periods that exceed their short-term memory limits.
In analyzing interpreters' notes, the researcher found that certain information was not recorded, as interpreters relied on their short-term memory for easier-to-remember details This observation highlighted that note-taking is not the most critical element in consecutive interpreting; instead, strong short-term memory enables interpreters to deliver clear and accurate interpretations.
In summary, this finding aligns with Rozan's (1989) discussion on two essential types of information to document: the first type consists of key points that outline the structure of the original speech, while the second type includes notes that aid in memory retention.
Implications for note-taking in training interpreting students
To answer this question, the researcher conducted semi-interviews with two professional interpreters who gave practical suggestions for interpreting students
4.4.1 Relation of note-taking, active listening and short-term memory capacity
Both interviewees agreed that note-taking is not the most crucial skill in consecutive interpreting Interpreter 1 emphasized that note-taking serves merely as a tool to retain information that short-term memory cannot hold She identified the key to successful consecutive interpreting as the effective combination of active listening and strong short-term memory skills.
Interpreters, as active listeners, engage attentively with speakers, often relying on their strong short-term memory to analyze and retain information without extensive note-taking Note-taking primarily aids comprehension rather than serving as a primary tool Factors influencing note-taking strategies include memory capacity, the length of the source language content, and familiarity with the topic Some interpreters can translate fluently with minimal notes due to their strong memory, while longer sentences necessitate more extensive note-taking to capture essential information Additionally, familiarity with the subject matter allows interpreters to take fewer notes, whereas unfamiliar topics require greater focus on new terminology, potentially distracting from the overall message Consequently, thorough preparation and knowledge of the subject and relevant terminology are crucial for effective comprehension in interpreting.
4.4.2 Individuality in the choice of note-taking form and contents
Both of interpreters believed that note-taking is highly personal Therefore, they suggested that students should be free to choose what to note and how to note as
Effective note-taking is crucial for interpreting, but students should focus on the overall meaning rather than individual words Many students mistakenly believe that extensive notes guarantee accuracy, but this often distracts them from the core message Instead, they should prioritize listening for meaning and then use abbreviations or symbols to capture key points This approach allows for accurate translation, even when encountering unfamiliar terms Good analytical skills are essential for identifying relevant information to note down Additionally, students should focus on aspects they tend to forget, as memory capacity varies; for example, some may excel at remembering numerical data but struggle with technical terms or proper names.
1990, we established trade relations with 24 countries”, she wrote down “1990” and
To enhance their note-taking skills, students should recognize their short-term memory limits and engage in active listening As interpreter 1 suggests, it is best to take notes after the speaker has conveyed a complete idea, allowing students to better understand and retain key information They should focus on jotting down challenging concepts Similarly, interpreter 2 advises against starting to take notes immediately, as this can hinder the formation of coherent messages.
Two interpreters provided insightful recommendations regarding the use of note-taking language They suggested that students should utilize both the source and target languages in their notes, as certain expressions are more concise in the source language For example, Interpreter 1 highlighted that the Vietnamese phrase “ộ ao động Thương binh và Xã hội” is lengthy, recommending the English abbreviation OIS instead Additionally, the term “non-performing loans” is more succinctly noted as “nợ xấu” in Vietnamese They emphasized that students should jot down their thoughts as they come, often resulting in notes that blend multiple languages Ultimately, the effectiveness of note-taking lies in the student's understanding of their own notes.
During the study, the researcher received valuable advice from a dedicated lecturer at the University of Languages and International Studies, emphasizing the importance of preparation as a crucial skill for students This preparation involves organizing materials such as papers, notebooks, and pens Based on her experience, she recommended using spiral-bound notebooks in A4, A5, or A6 sizes, with each page divided vertically into two sections Additionally, she advised that pencils should be sharpened at both ends While this guidance may seem straightforward, neglecting to make careful arrangements in advance could lead to significant challenges for interpreters, particularly students.
In conclusion, the suggested strategies are essential for students undergoing consecutive interpreting training Mastering note-taking skills and techniques is crucial, as they enable students to develop effective strategies for producing high-quality translations Continuous practice is vital, as it is the key to achieving excellence in interpreting.
CONCLUSION
Summary of key findings
Note-taking is a crucial skill in consecutive interpreting, prompting this preliminary study to offer a thorough review of note-taking techniques used by professional interpreters By analyzing their skills and incorporating their suggestions, the study aims to provide reliable and up-to-date information for those interested in enhancing their note-taking abilities in this field.
Chapter 1 consists of brief introduction of the study and the reason for choosing this study
Chapter 2 explores key theories and issues surrounding note-taking, including interpretation, memory training, and the capacity of short-term memory These concepts establish a theoretical framework that supports the research questions addressed in Chapter 4.
Chapter 3 mentions methods which are applied to carry out the study This study mainly employs qualitative methods and semi-interviews as a tool achieve research results
Chapter 4 deals with findings from analyzing the professional interpreters‟ notes It can be concluded that a successful interpreter needs combine activities of understanding, analysis and re-expression in consecutive interpreting Each interpreter has his own way of note-taking and use different choice of strategy
Note-taking for interpreters is influenced by individual backgrounds, personalities, experiences, and training While there are guiding principles, interpreters develop their own unique note-taking systems These skills are interconnected with various techniques that can be enhanced through consistent practice As emphasized by Interviewee 1, effective note-taking goes beyond merely jotting down information; it is about utilizing those notes strategically to aid in the interpreting process.
To excel as consecutive interpreters, students must cultivate strong concentration and analytical skills, alongside an effective note-taking system By practicing essential techniques and broadening their knowledge across various subjects, they can identify their strengths and weaknesses, ultimately creating personalized note-taking strategies that will pave the way for their success in the interpreting field.
Limitations
The study's limited scope, involving a small sample of professional interpreters, restricts the depth of analysis regarding note-taking strategies This moderate participant size hinders the ability to draw comprehensive comparisons and contrasts, as the data sources are insufficient Additionally, the strategies presented are constrained, relying solely on the suggestions of two professional interpreters.
Suggestions for further studies
First, further research can be conducted on larger scale of subjects to get various insights into note-taking and note-taking techniques
This research focuses on the note-taking skills of professional interpreters, examining various techniques and strategies It suggests that future studies could explore related skills, including analytical abilities, active listening, and memory training, to enhance understanding of effective note-taking in interpretation.
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Dam, H V (2004) Interpreters' notes: On the choice of form and language In K
M Gyde Hansen, Claims, Changes and Challenges in Translation Studies (pp
251-261) Amsterdam/Philadelphia: John Benjamins Publishing Company
Dodds, J (1997) The Interaction between Research and Training In D G Yves Gambier, Conference Interpreting: Current Trends in Research: Proceedings of the
International Conference on Interpreting - What Do We Know and How? (p 101)
Gile, D (1995) Basic Concepts and Models for Interpreter and Translator Training Amsterdam/ Philadelphia: John Benjamins
Gile, D (2001) Consecutive vs Simultaneous: Which is more acurate?
Gyde Hansen, Kirsten Malmkjaer, Daniel Gile (Eds.) (2004) Claims, Changes and
Challenges in Translation Studies Amsterdam, Philadenphia: John Benjamins
Hale, S B (2007) Community Interpreting New York: Palgrave MacMillan
Herbert, J (1952) The Interpreter's Handbook: How to Become a Conference Interpreter Georg & Cie S.A
HeZhong, W (2003) Memory Training in Interpreting Translation Journal Jones, R (2002 ) Conference Interpreting Explained Manchester: St Jerome
Lambert, Sylvie, Barbara Moser-Mercer (Eds.) (1994) Bridging The Gap: Empirical Research in Simultaneous Interpretation Amsterdam/ Philadelphia: John
Manson, J (1996) Quanlitative Researching UK: SAGE Publications Ltd
Matyssek, H (2008) (Non-)Sense in Note-taking for Consecutive Interpreting In
M Albl-Mikasa, Interpreting (pp 197 – 231) Amsterdam/ Philadelphia: John
Meifang, Z (2012) The Study of Note-taking and Memory in Consecutive Interpretation
Munday, J (2009) The Routledge Companion to Translation Studies London and
Neil Murray, Geraldine Hudghes (2008) Writing up Your University Assignments and Research Projects New York: Open University Press
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Rozan, J.-F (2002) Note-taking in consecutive interpreting Tertium Society for the Promotion of Language Studies for the Polish and English: Poland
TRANSCRIPTION OF INTERPRETER 1
The work for the future in
In Vietnam, employers are increasingly prioritizing critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills over traditional content knowledge To meet these evolving demands, it is essential to transform the instructional methods used in primary and secondary education This shift aims to equip students with the competencies needed for the future workforce, aligning educational outcomes with current market needs.
Dự án này rất quan trọng vì nó giúp chúng ta chuẩn bị lực lượng lao động cho hiện tại và tương lai Các khảo sát từ nhà tuyển dụng cho thấy họ cần những kỹ năng như tư duy phản biện, giải quyết vấn đề, hợp tác và làm việc nhóm, thay vì chỉ tập trung vào nội dung kiến thức Chính vì vậy, đề án này đóng vai trò then chốt trong việc phát triển năng lực lao động Việt Nam.
- htác not nd nlực dạy h/s Cbị nlực
That is why we met with Mr oan We‟ve agreed that is the area of priority for MOET and its government and the World
We are now focusing on identifying our needs and organizing our programs for the upcoming years to provide effective support.
Trong các cuộc họp với Bộ trưởng, tôi đã nhấn mạnh rằng việc này cần được coi là ưu tiên hàng đầu của cả chính phủ, Bộ và Ngân hàng Thế giới, và mọi người đều đồng thuận với quan điểm này.
Chúng tôi đang xem xét cách thức tổ chức các chương trình hỗ trợ Bộ trong 3-5 năm tới, với những ưu tiên rõ ràng.
This involves some us I‟m thinking both in terms of what kind of knowledge and analytical input, technical
Chúng tôi rất mong muốn biết thêm về những yêu cầu hỗ trợ mà Bộ cần, đặc biệt là về kỹ thuật và kiến thức cần thiết.
To successfully implement the new curriculum, it is essential to understand the required assistance and the specific courses involved This process entails a detailed outline of steps necessary for effective execution Additionally, clarity on the associated costs is crucial for planning and budgeting Therefore, we seek to know the precise procedures involved in this implementation.
If I look at the two phases that you mentioned, the one of developing the textbooks for the secondary education within
Between 2013 and 2015, the focus was on finalizing the textbook and implementing the new curriculum During the first phase, there was a significant need for technical assistance, while the second phase required financial support as well.
Khi xem xét hai giai đoạn mà Bộ đã đề cập, giai đoạn 13-16 là thời điểm quan trọng để xây dựng và đổi mới chương trình, khi mà sự hỗ trợ kỹ thuật là rất cần thiết Ngược lại, ở giai đoạn 16-20, hỗ trợ tài chính sẽ trở nên hữu ích hơn để thúc đẩy sự phát triển.
To effectively set our questions regarding the development of the new curriculum, it is crucial to understand the technical landscape within the nation We need to identify the type of analytical and technical assistance required for this curriculum development Additionally, it is important to gather insights on how the implementation of the new curriculum is envisioned to unfold.
Investment can take various forms, each playing a crucial role in economic development One notable example is the national target program for the new curriculum, which spans from 2016 to 2020, designed to facilitate necessary investments for implementing educational reforms This program underscores the importance of strategic investment in achieving national goals and enhancing the quality of education.
Chúng tôi đặt ra hai nhóm câu hỏi quan trọng Nhóm thứ nhất liên quan đến việc Bộ cần hỗ trợ gì về mặt kỹ thuật, phân tích và nghiên cứu Nhóm thứ hai tập trung vào hỗ trợ tài chính, cụ thể là những đầu tư cần thiết cho việc triển khai các chương trình mới của chính phủ Việt Nam trong thời gian tới Chúng tôi muốn biết liệu các đầu tư này có thể được thực hiện dưới dạng chương trình mục tiêu quốc gia hay đầu tư cơ sở hạ tầng Việc hiểu rõ các hình thức đầu tư này sẽ giúp chúng tôi đưa ra các phương thức hỗ trợ hiệu quả.
46 curriculum I‟m asking this because for us it is important to think about financial support
What we would like to see is government‟s program that we can support with financing
The initiative aligns closely with the government's program, highlighting the importance of engaging in discussions regarding the investment from government offices to implement the new curriculum Supporting this initiative could lead to increased resources for its successful execution.
I think, in general my advice would be the Ministry of
Planning and Investment now has invited certain Ministries to put forward for financial support and the World ank‟s projects for the next three years
So this is the time to step forward ideas of what you would like to do
Bộ Kế hoạch và Đầu tư đang kêu gọi các bộ ngành gửi đề xuất dự án cho giai đoạn ba năm tới Đây là thời điểm thích hợp để xem xét các kế hoạch và dự án cá nhân Tôi sẽ lập một kế hoạch để xin kinh phí từ quỹ của Bộ Kế hoạch và Đầu tư.
And the way Ministries use to work is that other ministries are very pushy and so in a way they get it
Các bộ kh c thường rất quyết tâm xin tiền Nên họ đã giành được số tiền ấy rồi
I think that MOET is based on the Resolution by the Party‟s
In Congress V, VIII, and IX, it is essential to present compelling arguments and adopt a proactive approach We already have a resolution as a foundation for our demands, so we should assertively pursue the funds we seek.
47 is the kind of things we need force for