Analysis of selective attention processing on experienced simultaneous interpreters using EEG phase synchronization.

Abstract

This study analyzed the selective attention processing related to cognitive load on simultaneous interpretation (SI). We tested simultaneous interpreter's brain function using EEG signals and calculated inter-trial coherence (ITC) extracted by the 40-Hz auditory steady-state response (ASSR). In this experiment, we set two conditions as Japanese-English translation and Japanese shadowing cognition. We also compared two subject groups: S rank with more than 15 years of SI experience (n=7) and C rank with less than one year experience (n=15). As a result, the ITCs for S rank in interpreting conditions were more significantly increased than C rank in the shadowing conditions (ITC: p<0.001). Our results demonstrate that 40-Hz ASSR might be a good indicator of selective attention and cognitive load during SI in ecologically valid environmental conditions. It can also be used to detect attention and cognitive control dysfunction in ADHD or schizophrenia.