Screen Capture Technology in Translation Process Research

Abstract

The present study aims to provide guidelines for using screen capture technology in translation process research. Screen capture technology refers to digital recording of actions on a computer screen. The study shows how a researcher, making use of screen capture, can obtain information regarding the difficulties and issues involved in the process of translation. In this study, a group of translators were given limited amount of time to complete their work, and at the same time their performance on the computer screen was recorded by means of a screen capture application. The data provided valuable information such as self-correction, pause, compromising, dictionary use, shortcuts and immediate revision in the process of translation. Using such a device, one could reduce the former disadvantages in translation process research using think-aloud protocols which made the participants conscious of being studied. The article finally lists a number of advantages of using this method as well as its limitations.