The active role of interpreters in narrative development in two cross-cultural studies in Thailand

Title
The active role of interpreters in narrative development in two cross-cultural studies in Thailand
Publication Date
2010
Author(s)
Ditton, Mary
Lehane, Leigh
Editor
Editor(s): Helen Edwards, Myfanwy Maple
Abstract
Alternate title for publication: Embracing Multiple Dimensions: Papers from the 2nd Australasian Conference on Narrative Inquiry, University of New England, 12-13 July 2009
Type of document
Conference Publication
Language
en
Entity Type
Publication
Publisher
University of Wollongong
Place of publication
Australia
UNE publication id
une:7338
Abstract
This paper details steps that were taken to ensure authentic narrative development in two cross-cultural studies of oppressed participants when interpreters were used actively in the research process. The recent interview-based studies of migrants from Burma living in Thailand highlighted some important issues of narrative methodology and analysis when interpreters were used not just as language translators but as cultural conduits. Recruitment, selection and training of the interpreters were important, and review of their translations was essential, in ensuring that the narratives were authentic. Throughout the interview-based cross-cultural studies we learned to understand the complexity of narrative methodology and analysis in exploited populations; appreciated that a 'life story' is complex and determined and shaped by socioeconomic and political forces; and identified ways of optimising the active role of interpreters in narrative development in cross-cultural research.
Link
Citation
Current Narratives, 1(2), p. 1-13
ISSN
1837-0314
Start page
1
End page
13

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