Introduction to Translation and Interpreting Studies
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| MLAC1089 | Modern Languages and Cultures | 1 | 20 | Full Year UK |
- Code
- MLAC1089
- School
- Modern Languages and Cultures
- Level
- 1
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Full Year UK
Summary
This module tackles translation and interpreting from a set of basic questions: What is translation? What is a good translation? Dont things get lost in translation? Will a computer do all translations in 20 years time? What is the difference between translation and adaptation? How free can a translation be? Whilst debunking myths about translation and interpreting, this module will also provide an insight into key issues in translation studies by allowing students to reflect on what translation and interpreting activities involve (accuracy, fluency, freedom, machine-translation, ethics), and will also introduce translation and interpreting issues in relation to different genres/topical matters, such as machine-translation (allowing the introduction of technological tools for translators) and careers in Translation and Interpreting
Target Students
This is a core module for MLT students. Available to other students who have post A-level French or German or Spanish or Russian as part of their degree. Also available for Exchange students.
Classes
- One 2-hour workshop each week for 8 weeks
- One 2-hour workshop each week for 20 weeks
- One 2-hour workshop each week for 2 weeks
Activities may take place every teaching week of the Semester or only in specified weeks. It is usually specified above if an activity only takes place in some weeks of a Semester
Assessment
- 40% Coursework 1: Translation of a foreign source-text (300 words) with commentary (500 words).
- 10% Coursework 2: Completion of a series of questions about technological tools for translators
- 10% Presentation 1: Peer-assessed group presentation (10%): In groups of 3 or 4, students will give a presentation on a careers-related topic.
- 40% Project: Editing task with annotations
Assessed by end of spring semester
Educational Aims
The module provides an introduction to all the main key issues in translation studies in a student-friendly and practical manner and whilst staying away from purely theoretical discussions. Students will have a better understanding of translation and interpreting as disciplines and as practices and develop their awareness of what translators/interpreters do, why they do it, and how they do it.Learning Outcomes
A1: The grammar, structures, registers and practical functioning of the chosen languages.
A2: The techniques required for successful working at the interface of the chosen languages and English.
A3: Selected aspects of linguistics and the literature, culture, history and/or society in which the chosen languages are spoken.
A4: Principles of literary and textual analysis.
A6: Linguistic, textual and cultural issues relating to translation, and techniques for resolving difficulties
A7: Linguistic, interpersonal, ethical, business and cultural issues relating to interpreting, and technique for resolving difficulties.
A8: Technological tools for translationB1: Undertake close textual analysis of a variety of types of literary and other texts.
B2: Make critical use of primary and secondary source material, both written and audio-visual.
B4: Engage in independent study and research.
B5: Engage in critical and analytic reflection on the basis of ideas acquired through B1-4.
B6: Express ideas clearly and effectively in the context of a well constructed argument.
B7: Engage in exchanges of ideas with others, giving due weight to their opinions.
B8: Make a practical and effective use of both English and the target languages, informed by the acquisitions of B1-7.
C3: Read the target languages in different registers (and recognise the differences).
C4: Write effectively in the target languages using appropriate vocabulary for a variety of purposes.
C5: Translate effectively from the target languages into English and from English into the target languages.
C6: Understand, process and express complex ideas in both English and the target languages
C7: Work independently with written and spoken source materials in both English and the target languages and evaluate and process the results of research.
D1: Effective communication of information and ideas in appropriate registers of both oral and written English.
D2: Gathering, processing and critically evaluating material from a variety of sources, written, oral or audio-visual.
D3: Definition of problems and construction of strategies for their solution.
D4: Working productively independently.
D5: Working and solving problems productively as part of a team.
D6: Working productively under pressure.
D7: Organising time and work programmes effectively and meeting deadlines.
D8: Effective use of IT as a means of communication, presentation and learning.
D9: Ability to reflect on his/her own performance and recognise strengths and weaknesses.
D10: General personal skills: self-reliance, flexibility, initiative, self-confidence.