Language barriers to communication are a reality, especially at large, multi-national events like the VEX Robotics World Championship. Head Referees must be able to communicate with students before, during, and after matches—and there’s not always an interpreter available. Even when there is an interpreter, participants can feel uncomfortably rushed when they don’t have a common language and there’s a tight match schedule.
This article provides some practical ideas and recommendations for Head Referees to use when interacting with students who speak an unfamiliar language. We’ll primarily focus on literal language barriers, but many of the tips will also apply to other communication barriers:
- Language barriers - People in the conversation don’t share a common language
- Jargon and technical meaning can be lost in translation
- Language disabilities - Physical conditions that affect or impede communication
- Stuttering
- Hearing loss
- Cultural barriers - Different cultures have different conversational norms
- A joke in English might be misinterpreted by speakers of other languages
- Perceptual barriers - Differences of understanding based on different perspectives
- One person’s “egregious” action might be another’s normal
- Emotional barriers - Emotions can affect or prevent speaking and listening
- It’s hard to listen or explain when you’re scared or angry
- Interpersonal barriers - Rank, gender, role, and tone can complicate communication
- Perceived or real power imbalances can lead to tension and misunderstandings
Tips to overcome language barriers
- Use plain language - Speak simply, slowly, and clearly. Enunciate, but don’t exaggerate every word. Avoid contractions. Do not raise your speaking volume! Use short, simple sentences when you can, without being condescending.
- Avoid jargon and slang (for example, ballpark figure, benefit of the doubt, rule of thumb, touch base, on the same page), jokes, and technical terms when possible. They rely on specific knowledge or frames of reference and don’t translate well.
- Use an interpreter when you can. Pause between sentences to let the interpreter translate, and to let listeners think and formulate responses. Long pauses are okay, and are sometimes necessary. When using an interpreter, speak to and look at the individual you are communicating with—not the interpreter.
- Use a translation service like Google Translate if an interpreter isn’t available.
- Use visual aids like dry erase boards, field elements, or paper & pen.
- Be respectful. Have empathy and respect. Be patient.
- Take your time. Rushing will make things slower, not faster.
- Ask for clarification if you’re not sure you understood.
- Check for understanding frequently, and before making final decisions. Asking a team “Do you understand the rules and the decision I’ve explained to you?” will help identify any remaining confusion and boost the student experience.
- Remember that language barriers can lead to misunderstandings, and that misunderstanding a rule or ruling isn’t the same as intentionally violating it or cheating.