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Article published In: Translation and Interpreting Studies
Vol. 20:2 (2025) ► pp.244–273

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Methods for exploring executive functions (EFs) in simultaneous interpreting (SI)

A systematic review and proposals for future studies

ORCiD logo with link | Macquarie University
ORCiD logo with link | Macquarie University | North-West University
ORCiD logo with link | Macquarie University
ORCiD logo with link | Macquarie University
Published online: 9 September 2025
DOI logo with link
https://doi.org/10.1075/tis.24100.yan
Abstract
Existing studies have employed both cross-sectional and longitudinal research designs to investigate the impact of simultaneous interpreting (SI) practice and training experience on executive functions (EFs). However, findings have been inconsistent regarding whether interpreters exhibit superior EFs compared with non-interpreters. To explore the factors contributing to these inconsistencies, the present literature review provides an overview of the relevant empirical studies that investigate the three core sub-components of EFs: inhibiting, shifting, and updating. Based on the reviewed studies, key methodological factors are identified, including the exclusive reliance on either longitudinal or cross-sectional research designs and the variation in tasks used to assess the same EFs sub-component across studies. Given these factors, the review proposes potential methodological refinements aimed at enhancing the reliability and validity of future research in this area.
Article outline
  • Introduction
  • Literature search and screen procedure
  • Cross-sectional research of interpreting and EFs
    • Cross-sectional investigations into interpreter’s inhibiting skill
    • Cross-sectional investigations into interpreter’s shifting skill
    • Cross-sectional investigations into interpreter’s updating skill
    • Methodological challenges in cross-sectional research
  • Longitudinal research of interpreting and EFs
    • Longitudinal investigations into interpreter’s EFs
    • Methodological challenges in longitudinal research design
  • Addressing methodological challenges in future research
    • Issues related to general research design
    • Issues related to EFs tasks applications
  • Conclusion
  • References
References (73)
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