REPORT
Conference interpreters’ technology readiness and perception of digital technologies
The author reports on the findings of a survey among conference interpreters regarding their readiness for and
perceptions of digital technologies and artificial intelligence. The Technology Readiness Index (TRI 2.0) was administered to a
sample of 496 conference interpreters, most of them members of AIIC. In addition, semi-structured interviews were conducted with
25 of them to gain deeper insights into their attitudes towards AI-enabled tools and the potential impact on their professional
practice. The results indicate a cautious openness towards technology balanced by concerns about cognitive load, ethical issues
and the impact on traditional skills. The findings suggest the need for comprehensive training to enhance technological skills
while maintaining ethical standards and also for research on the cognitive effects of AI-generated content and the evolving role
of interpreters in a technology-driven landscape.
Article outline
- 1.Introduction
- 2.Methods
- 2.1Questionnaire
- 2.2Procedure
- 2.3Interview content and analysis
- 3.Results
- 3.1Survey participants and interviewees
- 3.2Technology readiness
- 3.3Interviews
- 3.3.1Technology use
- 3.3.2Impact of technology
- 3.3.3Future prospects of the profession
- 4.Discussion
- 5.Conclusion
- Notes
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References