Language and translation strategies in researching migrant experience of difference from the position of migrant researcher

Gawlewicz, A. (2016) Language and translation strategies in researching migrant experience of difference from the position of migrant researcher. Qualitative Research, 16(1), pp. 27-42. (doi: 10.1177/1468794114557992)

Abstract

In an era of accelerated international mobility, migrant researchers are increasingly studying their migrant co-nationals in a language different from the language in which they report their findings. This raises very significant considerations regarding language experience and translation of research data. While crucial for understanding production of knowledge, these issues have not yet been given adequate attention. In response, this article focuses first on the challenges related to the assumed shared relationship with language between migrant researchers and their migrant informants. In doing so, it contributes to the discussion about positionality of a migrant researcher. Second, it recognizes the role of a translator researcher and discusses the implications of collecting data in one language and presenting the findings in another. As such, it addresses essential methodological queries many migrant researchers face when conducting studies involving their compatriot communities.

• Item Type: Articles
• Keywords: difference, language, migrant researcher, migration, positionality, reflexivity, translation, translator researcher
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Gawlewicz, Dr Anna
• Authors: Gawlewicz, A.
• Subjects: H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General); H Social Sciences > HM Sociology
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Social and Political Sciences > Sociology Anthropology and Applied Social Sciences
• Journal Name: Qualitative Research
• Publisher: SAGE Publications
• ISSN: 1468-7941
• ISSN (Online): 1741-3109