Abstract (eng)
The aim of this paper was to examine RSI from the perspective of conference interpreters with Polish as their A language. The study aimed was to provide an overview of Polish conference interpreters’ experiences with RSI, to analyse their assessment of the technical aspects, the working environment, and their physical and psychological well-being under RSI, as well as to identify possible correlations between the interpreters’ affinity for technology on one hand and their attitudes towards and assessment of RSI on the other hand. An online survey was conducted among conference interpreters who are members of the Polish professional associations TEPIS and PSTK. The study revealed a mixed attitude of the respondents towards RSI. One of the biggest shortcomings of RSI seems to be the lack of on-site presence, which is associated with a loss of visual information, difficulties in communication with the booth partners and the technicians, and negative effects on the interpreters’ psychological well-being and their sense of presence. Another problem is the lack of awareness among clients with respect to the technical aspects of RSI, which often results in poor sound and image quality or difficulties in solving technical problems. The vast majority of respondents also suffer from the negative impact of RSI on their physical and psychological well-being. However, RSI also comes with certain benefits, saving time and costs and sometimes leading to reduced stress for interpreters. The results of the survey also suggest that interpreters with a high affinity for technology are least affected by the negative effects of RSI.