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In:Research Methods in Cognitive Translation and Interpreting Studies
Edited by Ana María Rojo López and Ricardo Muñoz Martín
[Research Methods in Applied Linguistics 10] 2025
► pp. 133–156

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Chapter 6
Screen recording

 | Macquarie University
 | Kent State University
 | Autonomous University of Barcelona
Published online: 1 April 2025
DOI logo with link
https://doi.org/10.1075/rmal.10.06rai
Abstract
Screen recording has emerged as a powerful tool in cognitive translation and interpreting studies (CTIS) research. This method captures participants’ computer screens, offering a unique window into their translation processes, information-seeking skills, and human-computer interaction (HCI). Researchers can analyze user behavior through documented pauses, search strategies, and task completion steps. While screen recording offers advantages like unobtrusiveness and ease of storage, it also presents challenges in data analysis complexity and ethical considerations regarding privacy and informed consent. Often, researchers combine it with keylogging, eyetracking, and interviews to strengthen research validity. This chapters explores the rich nature of screen recording in CTIS research. We discuss both the methodological and ethical aspects, examining its applications, advantages, and limitations. Additionally, we explore its integration with complementary data collection methods and outline the types of data it captures. Finally, we acknowledge the evolving technological landscape and the emerging challenges it presents. Through this analysis, we aim to shed light on the potential of screen recording for advancing CTIS research.
Article outline
  • 1.The method and key questions
    • 1.1The state of the art in screen recording
    • 1.2Ethical issues in screen recording
  • 2.Conceptual aspects
    • 2.1Research designs in screen recording
    • 2.2Variables in screen recording
    • 2.3Data measurement in screen recording
  • 3.Implementation
  • 4.Closing remarks
    • 4.1Advantages, and disadvantages of screen recording, and emerging challenges
  • Notes
  • Further readings on screen recording
  • References
References (68)
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