The conversation analytic role-play method: How authentic data meet simulations for interpreter training

Developed by Stokoe to train professionals working in communication-rich institutions like hospitals, tribunals, and schools, the Conversation Analytic Role-Play Method (CARM) uses anonymised extracts from authentic conversations to enable trainees to learn from what actually happens in encounters. We will here argue that CARM can prove useful for the professionalisation of Public Service Interpreting (PSI) and detail how it may be used to train practising interpreters, interpreting students and trainers, as well as public service providers. After raising some theoretical considerations on role-played simulations vs. actual encounters and on the importance of students’ observation and participation in training activities, we will review the literature available on CARM and then present its application. Two alternative training paths will be exemplified: the first is based on audio data with setting and language-specific extracts of medical consultations–interpreted onsite, the second on video data from various hospital encounters with remote interpreting in various languages. We will show how CARM takes CA research findings as a basis for training as well as how recordings and transcripts can be used together in presentation software to pave the way to relevant take-home messages and finally provide the reader with some further readings and resources.