Introduction to the special issue Revisiting aptitude testing for interpreting

Abstract

ABSTRACT Aptitude testing plays an important role in interpreter training as it helps to screen prospective trainee interpreters, ensuring the quality of training. However, there has been scant interest in this line of inquiry among interpreting scholars. This special issue focuses on the conceptualisation of aptitude and exploration of the predictive validity of aptitude testing batteries or components for interpreting performance from multiple theoretical perspectives using a wide array of methodologies. Firstly, Han’s meta-analysis provides a comprehensive methodological overview of the current research on predictive validity of aptitude testing for interpreting. Next, Hlavac’s survey-based study focuses on the conceptualisation of interpreting aptitude by incorporating multi-stakeholder views. The ensuing three empirical studies by Liu and Zhang, Shang and Xie and Lu and Liu have explored the predictive validity of the tests that were replicated, currently used and self-designed respectively. The last three studies, by Su, Xu, and Song and Li, adopt an aptitude-treatment paradigm to explore the different effects of aptitude components, such as learners’ emotions and cognitive fluency, on interpreting performance under different treatment conditions. These eight articles are expected to stir the research community’s interest in aptitude testing for interpreting, a highly relevant yet significantly under-examined area in interpreting studies.