Can You See It in a Different Colour? Visual Imagery Control Predicts Consecutive Interpreting Performance

Abstract

This is a preprint and has not been peer-reviewed. The manuscript is currently under review. This is version 1 of this preprint. Mental imagery plays a critical role in memory. However, the link between the different types and components of imagery and efficiency in tasks involving recall is not clear as the direction of the effect (facilitation/deterioration) usually depends on the task in question. We investigate the role of visual and auditory mental imagery in consecutive interpreting, an underrepresented yet product-oriented and ecologically valid activity with high individual variability due to exacting memory and cognitive control demands. Mental imagery of 38 translation-interpreting undergraduates was measured on four self-reported scales and a mental rotation test with the vividness, control, and preference components. Participants were then asked to consecutively interpret 10 speeches from English into Turkish. Mixed-effects models revealed that only control of visual mental imagery measured with Gordon’s Test of Visual Imagery Control predicts consecutive interpreting performance. Results were discussed as per the nature of imagery and the cognitive architecture of consecutive interpreting.