Big Data & Translation: The Power of Quantitative Research in TIS
Quantitative research has often taken a back seat in Translation and Interpreting Studies (TIS), with qualitative methods traditionally dominating the field. However, as big data, AI, and statistical modelling become more integrated into linguistic research, quantitative approaches are gaining momentum.
In this interview, researcher and ReMeTIS lecturer Marco Civico, of the Faculty of Translation and Interpreting, explores the role of statistical methods in TIS, discusses statistical software, and looks at emerging trends that are shaping the future of translation and interpreting research.
Quantitative Methods in TIS Research
Quantitative research is sometimes perceived as less common in Translation and Interpreting Studies (TIS) compared to qualitative approaches. In your experience, what are the main challenges and advantages of applying statistical methods to TIS research?
Dr Civico: Applying statistical methods to Translation and Interpreting Studies offers both challenges and advantages. One key challenge is the fundamental subjectivity in translation and interpretation processes, which can make it difficult to quantify certain aspects like accuracy or fluency. Additionally, the complexity of linguistic data often requires sophisticated statistical models, which can be intimidating for researchers without strong statistical backgrounds. However, the advantages are clear: quantitative methods allow researchers to identify patterns, measure performance objectively, and provide evidence for theoretical claims. Statistical analysis can bring rigor to TIS research, helping to draw generalized conclusions and support evidence-based decision-making in both academic and professional contexts.
Statistical Software and Tools
In Course 3 Quantitative Methods, of the ReMeTIS programme, participants will gain hands-on experience with statistical software. Which tools do you consider essential for researchers in TIS, and how do you suggest they approach learning statistical analysis if they have no prior experience?
Dr Civico: For researchers in TIS, statistical tools like R and SPSS are essential for analysing data. R, with its powerful scripting capabilities and wide range of statistical packages, is ideal for more complex analyses and reproducible research. SPSS is often favoured for its user-friendly interface, especially for beginners. For those with no prior experience in statistical analysis, I recommend starting with online tutorials and courses focused on the basics of statistical methods and software usage. It’s important to start with foundational concepts such as hypothesis testing, correlation, and regression analysis, gradually moving to more advanced techniques as confidence and understanding increase. Hands-on practice with real-world data sets also helps consolidate these concepts.
The Future of Quantitative Research in TIS
With the increasing availability of big data, AI, and automated translation tools, how do you see quantitative research evolving in Translation and Interpreting Studies? Are there any emerging trends or methodologies that researchers should be aware of?
Dr Civico: With advancements in big data, AI, and automated translation tools, quantitative research in Translation and Interpreting Studies is bound to become even more crucial. Emerging trends such as machine learning and natural language processing are already transforming the way data is analysed, offering new opportunities for exploring large-scale linguistic datasets. Researchers should be aware of methodologies like sentiment analysis, corpus-based studies, and automatic error detection, which are increasingly integrated into TIS research. These tools allow for the examination of translation quality on a larger scale and enable more granular insights into interpreter behaviour, client satisfaction, and the efficiency of translation systems. Researchers will need to develop skills in handling and analysing these complex datasets, ensuring that they are making the best out of these new technologies.
In conclusion, quantitative research in TIS is a powerful tool that can bring rigor, objectivity, and depth into research. In Course 3 of the ReMeTIS programme on Quantitative Methods, participants will gain hands-on experience with statistical software, learn to interpret data effectively, and explore how quantitative techniques can enhance their research.
