Lights, Camera… Interpretation: Navigating the Challenges of Irish Sign Language Interpreting in Broadcast Settings

Authors

• Kristina Cregan, Trinity College Dublin, IrelandFollow
• Sarah Sheridan, Trinity College Dublin, IrelandFollow

Abstract

Sign language interpreters working in broadcasted settings face added pressures due to its public nature. This research sets out to explore what the effects of being video recorded during assignments are on interpreters, and to examine how interpreters adapt to the challenges of broadcast assignments. To achieve this, an anonymous questionnaire was sent to Irish Sign Language (ISL) interpreters who have experience working in broadcasted environments or being video recorded for public contexts. The questionnaire used a combination of open and closed questions to discover what the challenges are for these environments and how interpreters cope. A thematic analysis was carried out on 32 responses, which represents 27% of the registered interpreting cohort at that time. The data collected shows that broadcast interpreting is a fast paced, high-pressure environment that allows for minimal clarification. Participants noted that the lack of Deaf audience in these settings creates a difficulty when making translation decisions. It was also found that the fear of being judged for their performance when being video recorded during an assignment puts additional stress onto the interpreter. It was discovered that interpreters in these settings value the use of preparation material and often prefer to work in a team to reduce the demands faced.

Suggested Citation

Cregan, Kristina and Sheridan, Sarah (2026) "Lights, Camera… Interpretation: Navigating the Challenges of Irish Sign Language Interpreting in Broadcast Settings," Journal of Interpretation: Vol. 34: Iss. 1, Article 2.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.unf.edu/joi/vol34/iss1/2