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In:Non-professional Interpreting and Translation: State of the art and future of an emerging field of research
Edited by Rachele Antonini, Letizia Cirillo, Linda Rossato and Ira Torresi
[Benjamins Translation Library 129] 2017
► pp. 259–279

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Chapter 13
Bilingual youngsters’ perceptions of their role as family interpreters

Why should their views be measured? Why should they count?

Published online: 19 June 2017
DOI logo with link
https://doi.org/10.1075/btl.129.13ang
Abstract
Bilingual youngsters play a crucial role in brokering communication for monolingual adults. The truth is that this role has not been measured. This paper discusses the scientific measurement of bilingual youngsters’ perceptions of their role as family interpreters/translators. After reviewing the relevant literature and the sociological factors that result in bilingual youngsters engaging in language brokering, we discuss the construction, adaptation, and potential administration of a valid and reliable instrument, IPRI Junior. This instrument could reveal important information on bilinguals who have had experiences in language brokering. It is important to obtain this information empirically as various conversations on access, education, and future career may be based on this unique ability that gifted bilinguals possess. Most importantly, learning about the choices that bilinguals make when brokering communication will reveal their perceptions of their agency and talent in detail.
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.From the Spanish conquest to the 21st century
  • 3.Sociolinguistic environment: The need for access
  • 4.Latino youngsters providing “access”
  • 5.Review of relevant literature
    • 5.1Children and youngsters as language brokers
    • 5.2Areas of tension
    • 5.3Academic achievement through language brokering
    • 5.4Development of cognitive and metalinguistic skills
  • 6.Adaptation of a measurement instrument
    • 6.1Instrument design: Adaptation of IPRI
      • 6.1.1Description of construct
      • 6.1.2Adaptation of target population
      • 6.1.3Test blueprint
      • 6.1.4Small-scale trial
  • 7.Conclusion
  • Note
  • References
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Martínez-Gómez, Aída
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This list is based on CrossRef data as of 15 november 2025. Please note that it may not be complete. Sources presented here have been supplied by the respective publishers. Any errors therein should be reported to them.

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