This recurring retreat for interpreters engaged in Collective Dialogue continues the exploration of various frameworks of inquiry regarding challenges faced in each individual’s practice. We bring forward these issues by processing and reviewing how they impact our interpreting work, considering these issues as they are reflected in others’ practices, and identifying how they appear in the larger body of the interpreting profession.

This is a reflective practice, as returning participants develop a breadth and depth of understanding for the commonalities interpreters share and the unique perspectives that each of us hold. As we present questions, problems, and challenges from our practice, our end goal is to enhance our thinking on these matters. The issues presented may be specialty or venue specific or they could be generic. By way of dialogue* participants engage in reflection and inquiry that allow the locus of control to belong to the one presenting the question, problem, or challenge.

This constructed container of commitment to dialogue with trusted peers is established with a longitudinal perspective on reflective dialogue. This commitment to ongoing inquiry and reflection strengthens each interpreter's ability to identify patterns of comprehension and behavior evident in what they have been thinking and doing. Collective dialogue prompts us to bring forth what may not have been previously realized, making insights available to the one presenting the challenge or issue or concern. In theory, each participant may access perspectives on the subject that previously were not present for them, generated through dialogue.

*specific reference to William Isaacs' definition of dialogue from "Dialogue: The Art of Thinking Together"