To Translated or Not: Moving Away From Equivalence in Qualitative Inquiry's Translational Practice

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session 10
  In Roundtable Session: Issues of Representation in Qualitative Research

Abstract

Qualitative researchers often take for granted that the process of translation is about searching for a linguistically expression in the targeted language equivalent to the original language. Combining insights from translational theories and Phil Carspecken’s critical qualitative methodology, we examined this assumption by interrogating what underlying theory of meaning is perpetuated through a translational practice seeking for equivalence. We made an experimental move to apply Carspecken’s meaning field and validity horizon analyses to original and translated texts. We demonstrated that a series of possible meanings may co-exist in interpreting a single speech act. These nuanced meanings carry foregrounded and backgrounded historical, inter-, and intra-cultural references. The analyses indicate translation practice based on one-on-one correspondence should be challenged and re-imagined.

Authors

• Pei-Jung Li, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Pengfei Zhao, University of Florida

• Wen Qi, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Peiwei Li, Indiana University