Interpreter training programs in Korea are usually taught by practitioners with extensive field experience, who often lack pedagogical training and theoretical knowledge in interpreting studies. As a result, they may experience difficulties in their i...
Interpreter training programs in Korea are usually taught by practitioners with extensive field experience, who often lack pedagogical training and theoretical knowledge in interpreting studies. As a result, they may experience difficulties in their instructional activities. Therefore, there is a growing need for systematic training programs for interpreter trainers. This study explored interpreter trainers’ views on essential competencies of interpreter trainers and investigated their needs for trainer training. Five early-career English-Korean interpreting instructors at a graduate school of interpretation and translation in Korea participated in the study. Data were collected through a questionnaire and a focus group interview. The analysis showed that participants recognized the importance of interpreting competence, course organizational skills, and instructional skills. However, their awareness of the value of theoretical knowledge in interpreting studies, contexts of interpreter training, and educational tools and resources was relatively low. The participants expressed desire to improve their skills in providing effective feedback and conducting fair and objective assessment. They also hoped to share experiences and challenges with fellow trainers and to discuss the direction of interpreter training.