The Three layers of Memory Used by The Interpreter While Interpreting

Introduction
It goes without saying that good knowledge of both source and target
languages is one of the most crucial elements in interpreting. However, the
aforesaid is not sufficient and other elements are involved in the process of
interpreting . Interpreters are usually faced with dense information and high time
pressure during their work. From this point of view, to transfer the information
from the source language to the target language smoothly, a powerful memory
capability becomes extremely significant for a qualified interpreter. Tarpy
(1978) states that the information processing approach offers a way of dividing
the memory system into sensory memory, short-term memory and long-term
memory.

Sensory Memory in interpreting

Sensory memory is of crucial importance for it is the very first step of

information processing by the memory system . It consists of three sections
which are Iconic , Echoic , and Haptic memory . In the interpreting process ,
iconic memory happens to be quite useful for it is the interpreter’s visual
sensory memory by which he can visualize certain concepts found in speech and
then easily have them noted using the appropriate symbol in consecutive
interpreting . On the other hand , echoic memory is the one of crucial
importance for it is the interpreter’s auditory sensory memory by which he
retains sound « speech » for few but crucial seconds . The major purpose of
sensory memory , particularly for an interpreter , is to retain information found
in speech long enough for it to be recognized, selected and transfored to short-
term memory , which enables the interpreter to deliver a favourable
interpretation .

The effect of short-term memory on interpreting

Short-term memory (STM) plays a major role in interpreting. When we

receive an input from the environment, it is transferred to our sensory registers
where it remains for less than a second. The message is encoded either in the
form of acoustic, visual, or semantic data and thereafter moves to our STM
where it remains for less than thirty seconds. Some scholars believe that in
interpreting this figure is less than ten seconds (Smith, 1985). After this stage,
the message may move to our long term memory (LTM) where it will remain
forever. This will depend upon whether or not the message is coded, retrieved,
or rehearsed. If not, the message will be forgotten. Data in interpreters' LTM
will help them to put the information they hear into context, but STM is of
immediate assistance without which they will not be able to function properly.

The Significance of Long-Term Memory in Interpreting

Long-term memory is a real data base, which is characterized by large

information capacity and long duration. By retelling or elaborate information
processing, the information in short-term memory enters long-term memory.
Bao Gang (2005) points that interpreting consists of three stages of memory
process: recognition/comprehension, storing and information claim. For each
stage, it is participated by long-term memory. In recognition and comprehension
stage, long-term memory furnishes the interpreter with necessary knowledge of
phonology and grammar so as to identify the specific words and sentences.
Besides, long-term memory provides ample understanding for the topic of the
given speech, directing the interpreter’s attention to the new and key information
and ruling out the distracting input. The more experiences and knowledge an
interpreter has, the more successful interpretation can be. In the stage of
production, the role of long-term memory also can not be neglected. Since the
production in interpreting needs a reversion between two different languages,
interpreters’ obtained knowledge can serve to accelerate this production process.

Conclusion

 Good knowledge of SL and TL is a necessary but not sufficient requirement in

interpreting. Among other factors, interpreters have to pay special attention to
improving memory skills and performance in all its three layers in order to use it
at best.To achieve such task, it is necessary for the interpreter topractice active
listening and concentrate on the message, instead of words, details, or form of
the SL to deliver a favourable interpreting .
References

1. Bao Gang (1998). Interpretation Studies. Beijing: Tourism Education

Press.
2. Baogang. (1999). Comprehension in Interpretation .Journal of Beijing
International Studies University, 3,1-12.
3. Bao xiaoying (2005). The Application of Psychology in Interpretation
Teaching. Foreign Language World, 3, 37-42.
4. Tarpy, Roger (1978). Foundations of Learning and Memory. Illinois:
Scott Fore manand Company.
5. Van Hoat, H. (2006). How to Improve Short-Term Memory in
Interpreting, Ministry of education and training, Hanoi University of
Foreign Studies Press .