Research conducted at the Centre for Translation Studies (CTS) showed that interpreters, including conference and public service interpreters, could benefit from integrating Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) in their work, as it can improve the accurate delivery of numbers, terms and, to a certain extent, reduce the cognitive load experienced by interpreters. However, many interpreters do not have the expertise to access or use ASR, nor do they possess the skills necessary to customise the ASR to improve the accuracy of the tool according to their specific domain. In this AHRC funded project we would like to learn more about current trends in the interpreting world from conference and public service interpreters, project managers and language service providers. The focus is on the use and impact of AI and ASR on their workflow.

Our aim is therefore to collect feedback on the use interpreters make of AI, and more specifically of ASR, for their assignments. Interpreters, language service providers and project managers are all encouraged to take part in a short online survey to help us assess the current trends when it comes to AI and ASR software. The survey will collect demographic data alongside participants’ experience with AI and ASRs via a Qualtrics survey. All responses will be anonymized.

One of the additional aims of the AmpASR project is to organise a course in the second half of January 2025 on AI with a particular focus on ASR for interpreters. At the end of the survey, you will have the opportunity to express your interest in joining our online course. The first course is a pilot, so for this reason the places are limited, and participants will be selected and invited. Should you be invited to join, the course is currently offered at a discounted rate of £50 to be paid via a secure payment link through our University of Surrey e-shop. You will receive a £50 Amazon voucher as a token of appreciation for your full attendance should you decide to take part in our research-driven online 1:1 interview.

In the survey you will also be able to express your interest in being contacted for future courses and receive a 10% discount on our 2025 interpreting CPD courses should you not be selected for our pilot course. You will be notified by 10th Jan 2025 if you have secured a place on the pilot course.

This study has received Favourable Ethical Approval from the University of Surrey: Ethics RM Ref #737