Роль мотивации в формировании готовности переводчиков русского жестового языка к профессиональной деятельности

Abstract

This research aimed at defining the key motives for choosing profession of a Russian Sign Language (RSL) interpreter and the way they influence students' development of the readiness for professional activity. The participants of the study were 68 students of Novosibirsk State Technical University (NSTU) majoring in Linguistics, the English Language Interpreter and Russian Sign Language Interpreter program, and 6 teachers of RSL combining teaching with interpreting practice. The data were collected through questionnaire with open-ended questions. The questionnaire asked what influenced the choice of the program of studies, about interests in RSL and the deaf community, how attitude towards the profession of RSL interpreter changed after the beginning of studies at the university, and about motivation. Similar questions were given to the teachers but in relation to their understanding of students' motives. Teachers were also asked to express their opinion on what kind of learning and extra-curricular activities motivate students to sustain their interest in the profession of an RSL interpreter. The findings demonstrate that majority of the students have determinedly chosen the program of studies either for pragmatic (state-funded places) or idealistic (interest in “unusual” language, “mystery” of deaf culture) reasons. The studies and interaction with professional RSL interpreters positively influenced their attitude towards future profession. Most of the students value the opportunity to learn from deaf teachers. The teachers identified the same motives of choosing the profession of an RSL interpreter by the students and added that they were trying to maintain students' motivation by organized immersion into deaf culture. The students are involved in various extra-curricular activities with the deaf community. They participate in cultural events, do trial interpreting, and act as volunteers. Such kind of involvement with the deaf community enhances students' intercultural awareness and provides stimulating ground for developing readiness for professional RSL interpreting.