Remote Conference Interpreting Using ISDN Videotelephone: A Requirements Analysis and Feasibility Study

Abstract

The introduction of videocommunications via the Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) offers the potential of significant changes in the working conditions of a variety of professions including conference interpreters. A study was conducted aiming at identifying the special videocommunications requirements of professional conference interpreters and establishing whether ISDN videotelephony offers a sufficient audio bandwidth and image resolution to support the interpreters in their work. To this aim, a requirements analysis was conducted and four videotelephony systems were set up each implementing a different ISDN combination of audio bandwidth and picture quality. Five professional interpreters took part in the study. Each performed a simultaneous interpretation task of 30 minutes under each of the four conditions (set-ups). Stimulus material to be interpreted consisted of videotapes of conference presentations and TV interviews. Data on the dependent variables (task difficulty, benefits of the picture, sound quality, Social Presence, performance, and acceptance) were collected by means of questionnaires. The most important conclusion is that remote interpreting using ISDN videotelephony is possible only at a cost in terms of both increased fatigue and less satisfaction of the interpreters with their work. Remote interpreting requires at least the image quality that can be provided by a 384 kbit/s transmission rate (until better coding algorithms are available for lower transmission rates) and an audio bandwidth of at least 7 kHz. It is further recommended to conduct a field study with standardized interpreting equipment using more realistic input material.