The professionalisation of interpreting practice: A systematic review of the literature

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AbstractDriven by the need to enhance the status of interpreting practice, scholars in recent decades have shown a growing interest in the professionalisation of interpreting practice. However, research on this topic remains fragmented and compartmentalised. Using the systematic literature review methodology, this paper presents a review of the topic. The objective is to identify and analyse the theoretical approaches and key aspects that underpin research on the professionalisation of interpreting practice. The review identified five theoretical approaches (trait, control, performative-organisational, expert-performance and boundary work), and four key aspects of professionalisation (status, certification, training, and organisational intervention). Despite the useful findings and discussions of the literature, the analysis found a lack of theoretical engagement, and an over-reliance on the traditional approaches of trait and control. Also noted is a failure to emphasise the uniqueness and complexity of the field of interpreting which is rooted in the notion of bilingualism/multilingualism, and therefore linked to the co-existence of professional and non-professional interpreters. The review rounds up with suggestions for future research and alternative theoretical frameworks.