
The sign language interpreting profession is evolving, with growing emphasis on professionalisation, academic research, and evidence-based practice. However, one of the biggest challenges remains the disconnect between research and real-world interpreting. At The Together Conference 2024, Anja Saft, a German Sign Language interpreter and researcher, explored this issue in her thought-provoking session, shedding light on why research often feels out of reach for working interpreters and how we can integrate academic insights into our daily practice.
This blog post summarises key takeaways from her session and considers how interpreters—whether working in-person, remotely, or across different domains—can bridge the gap between education and practice.
The Growing Professionalisation of Sign Language Interpreting
One of the main themes of Saft’s session was the ongoing professionalisation of sign language interpreting worldwide. While some countries, such as the UK, have well-established interpreter training programmes and CPD (Continuous Professional Development) systems, others are still developing their professional structures.
For example, in Germany, interpreting only became academicised in the 1990s, and research into sign language interpreting is still relatively scarce. This highlights the need for ongoing professional learning to ensure that interpreters keep pace with the changing demands of the role.
The challenge many interpreters face, however, is accessing relevant and practical research. The session explored common barriers that prevent professionals from engaging with academic work and how we might overcome them.
Why Don’t More Interpreters Engage with Research?
Saft’s study identified several reasons why many interpreters struggle to engage with research, including:
A perceived disconnect between theory and practice – Many interpreters feel that academic research does not always address the practical realities of their work.
Lack of time and institutional support – Working interpreters, particularly freelancers, often lack the time or funding to engage with research.
Language barriers – Research is often published in English, meaning non-English-speaking interpreters face additional hurdles in accessing new knowledge.
Limited encouragement to pursue research careers – Unlike spoken language interpreting, where practitioner-researchers are more common, sign language interpreters who move into academia may face resistance from their peers.
These challenges are not unique to Germany—they resonate with interpreters in many countries, including the UK. The discussion raised important questions about how we can make research more accessible and relevant to interpreters in all working contexts.
Alternative CPD Approaches: What Can We Learn from Germany?
Since Germany does not have a structured CPD system like the UK, interpreters there have developed innovative ways to engage in ongoing learning. Saft shared several examples of alternative CPD approaches, including:
Theme nights – Regular informal gatherings where interpreters discuss a particular topic related to their work.
Book clubs – Reading and discussing academic articles together to improve research literacy.
Barcamps/UnConferences – Participant-led events where interpreters decide on discussion topics collectively.
These grassroots CPD models demonstrate that professional development doesn’t always need to be structured or institutionally led. Interpreters working remotely or across multiple domains—such as VRS/VRI interpreters—could benefit from adopting similar peer-learning methods to stay engaged with emerging research and best practices.
Building a Stronger Community of Practice
Saft introduced the concept of Communities of Practice, based on Wenger’s learning theory, which suggests that professional learning happens best in social settings. This means that interpreters can develop their skills most effectively by engaging with peers in meaningful ways—through discussions, mentoring, and shared learning experiences.
For remote interpreters, this is particularly important. VRS/VRI work can feel isolating, but by engaging with online networks, attending virtual CPD events, and collaborating with colleagues, interpreters can stay connected and informed about developments in the profession.
How Can We Bridge the Gap Between Research and Practice?
Saft’s session challenged the idea that research is only for academics. Instead, she argued that interpreters should actively engage with research as part of their professional development. Some practical ways to do this include:
Seeking out accessible research – Many academic articles are behind paywalls, but open-access journals and researcher blogs can provide valuable insights.
Joining discussion groups – Engaging with colleagues in reading groups or online forums can help break down complex research into practical takeaways.
Applying research to practice – Instead of viewing research as separate from the real world, interpreters can critically assess how findings apply to their own work, particularly in specialist domains such as legal, medical, or remote interpreting.
Advocating for practitioner-driven research – Interpreters can contribute to research by sharing their professional experiences, ensuring that academic studies remain relevant to working interpreters.
Final Thoughts
Anja Saft’s session at The Together Conference 2024 highlighted an ongoing challenge in our profession: ensuring that research is not only accessible but also practically useful to working interpreters. While barriers exist, alternative CPD methods and community-led learning approaches offer promising ways to engage more deeply with professional development.
Whether working face-to-face or remotely, interpreters can take small steps to integrate research into their practice, ensuring that their work remains informed by evidence and best practice. By bridging the gap between education and professional experience, we can help shape the future of sign language interpreting as a research-informed, reflective profession.
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