Who decides about the quality in community interpreting? (Results of a case study in the Czech Republic)
Abstract
Community interpreting does not have a solid institutional base in the Czech Republic so far, and much effort will yet have to be expended before the mutual roles of the individual participants using this type of interpreting are better understood and defined more specifically. Several studies have been written and research bas been taking plase as a part of master's diploma theses and final theses of the EMCI students at the Institute of Translation Studies, Charles University in Prague and the results have been more than just interesting.
Since summer 2010, a group of students have been assigned for practical training as community interpreters with the Organisation for Aid to Refugees (OPU). A longitudinal case study inquiry was carried focused on common interpreting situations, client expectations (asylum seekers and refugees), expectations of OPU workers and interpreters' perception of their own role.
Questionnaires filled in by OPU workers and interpreters were analysed. The first results present at least partial answers to the posed questions, provided by all the participants, including their own reflection on the quality of interpreting.
The first course on community interpreting (2010-2011) at the Institute of Translation Studies is described.