Interpreting in a community of practice : a sociolinguistic study of the signed language interpreter's role in workplace discourse
Abstract
This thesis explores the role of signed language interpreters (SLIs) in the workplace, a
setting which presents challenges in terms of role, boundaries and interaction with
deaf and hearing employees. The key research aims were to determine how primary
participants understand the role of the SLI, and how this influences the dynamics of
everyday interaction. Specific attention was paid to norms of discourse and shared
repertoires within a workplace Community of Practice (CofP). A detailed description
of the interpreting process was thus generated, enabling a deeper appreciation of
workplace dialogue where the SLI is an active third participant.
The research takes a linguistic ethnographic approach to examining signed language
interpreting within the workplace. Data were collected through the use of
questionnaires, practitioner journals, video-recorded interpreted interaction gathered
in workplace settings, and video playback interviews.
Findings show that the SLI has a considerable impact on the ways in which members
of a CofP interact, specifically in relation to small talk, humorous exchanges and
participation in the collaborative floor. The SLI’s management of these aspects of
workplace discourse influences the extent to which collegial relations can be
established between employees. These findings have significance in relation to the
training and education of SLIs, as well as their practice in this domain. The findings
also demonstrate the need for all participants to re-evaluate their understanding of
interpreted workplace discourse, moving towards a collaborative approach.