TLDR;
This video focuses on enhancing simultaneous interpretation skills by introducing "turbo multitasking." It builds upon previous exercises like parroting and lag time, adding the element of performing a secondary task (counting backward) to create mental space and improve focus. The goal is to automate parroting to the point where it requires minimal conscious effort, freeing up cognitive resources for other aspects of interpretation.
- Introduces "turbo multitasking" to enhance simultaneous interpretation skills.
- Builds upon parroting and lag time exercises.
- Aims to automate parroting to free up cognitive resources.
- Uses counting backward as a secondary task to create mental space.
Introduction to Turbo Multitasking [0:28]
The video introduces "turbo multitasking" as a method to improve simultaneous interpretation skills. This involves performing a primary task (parroting) while simultaneously executing a secondary task (counting backward) to create mental space. The idea is to automate the primary task to the point where it requires minimal conscious effort, thereby freeing up cognitive resources for other aspects of interpretation.
Parroting with Steve Jobs [1:34]
The instructor uses a clip of Steve Jobs speaking at Stanford commencement as the source material for the parroting exercise. While parroting Jobs' speech, the instructor begins counting backward from 100 by ones. The aim is to perform both tasks simultaneously, demonstrating the ability to do one thing without consciously thinking about the other.
Increasing Difficulty: Counting Backwards by Twos [2:28]
To further challenge the multitasking ability, the instructor transitions from counting backward by ones to counting backward by twos while continuing to parrot Steve Jobs' speech. This increase in difficulty is designed to create even more mental space and push the interpreter's ability to focus on multiple tasks at once. The instructor encourages viewers to experiment with different counting intervals (threes, fives, sevens) to find what works best for them.
Importance of Practice and Future Exercises [2:59]
The instructor acknowledges that adding the counting task may initially cause a tightening of the lag time (Decalogue) due to increased cognitive load. However, with practice, the interpreter will develop a second mental space, allowing for better multitasking. The video concludes by stating that future exercises will incorporate new accents and speeds to further enhance interpretation skills.
