Understanding the cognitive processes behind sight translation is a significant challenge in translation studies. This paper addresses that gap by proposing a detailed experimental design for eye-tracking studies. Our goal is to systematically investigate the role of visual attention during real-time sight translation performance. Using eye-tracking as a powerful research tool, our design provides an opportunity to analyse the complex cognitive mechanisms at play. The proposed methodology offers a framework to explore key aspects, such as how an interpreter’s gaze behaviour serves as an indicator of their cognitive load and translation speed. The study also incorporates Natural Language Processing (NLP) to analyse gaze-to-speech alignment and pinpoint processing bottlenecks. This experimental framework is crucial for several reasons. It will help us refine cognitive models of translation using objective indicators of mental activity, identify distinct attention patterns in experienced versus novice interpreters, and ultimately, inform the development of more human-centred computer-assisted translation (CAT) systems. Our research promises to provide a more robust understanding of the link between an interpreter’s visual behaviour and their cognitive processes, paving the way for advancements in both translation theory and practice.
Matvieieva et al. (Wed,) studied this question.