EU2393: Translation as a Profession

School null
Department Code null
Module Code EU2393
External Subject Code Q910
Number of Credits 20
Level L6
Language of Delivery English
Module Leader Dr Cristina Marinetti
Semester Spring Semester
Academic Year 2013/4

Outline Description of Module

While continuing to strengthen the students’ linguistic and critical skills, the module will look at translation as a profession and introduce students to the different contexts they may encounter in their future as translators (the world of freelance translation, translation agencies, governmental translation units). Through a series of case studies, we will develop the students’ problem-solving skills but also alert them to some of the real-life challenges and constraints of the translation profession (time-management, managing resources, the need to develop and maintain networks, institutional pressures and competition) The students will work in groups on 4 case studies (a series of texts to be translated, with a particular brief) following a set professional code of practice and within a set time frame.

On completion of the module a student should be able to

  • Demonstrate knowledge of different contexts of professional translation
  • Retrieve, understand and manage documentation and terminology in preparation for translation task
  • Work independently and in teams towards the timely completion of a translation task
  • Revise, edit and present their work according to professional standards
  • Reflect critically on their own translation practice;
  • Demonstrate appropriate use of translation resources and tools.

How the module will be delivered

This module introduces problem-based learning, a pedagogic model very well-established in the sciences and social sciences. The module will run as a series of practical workshops on 4 different translation briefs. Students will work in groups both within and outside the class (setting a work schedule, finding documentation, researching terminology, compiling glossaries, team translating, revising, editing and presenting their work). Tutors will provide initial guidelines, point out misconceptions or misunderstandings and help with finding adequate resources.

Skills that will be practised and developed

·         Team and individual translation skills

·         Documentation and terminology research and management

·         Use of translation technology tools

·         Time-management and problem-solving

·         Other key skills developed include: study, research, and organisational skills; communication and IT skills; intercultural and interpretation skills.

How the module will be assessed

Type of assessment

 

%

Contribution

Title

Duration
(if applicable)

Approx. date of Assessment

EXSP

60%

Translation Exam

2 hours

End of Year

CW

40%

Portfolio

 

 

 

Assessment Breakdown

Type % Title Duration(hrs)
Exam - Spring Semester 60 Translation As A Profession 2
Written Assessment 10 Translation 1 N/A
Written Assessment 10 Translation 2 N/A
Presentation 20 Group Presentation N/A

Syllabus content

1. Professional contexts: institutions, in-house, freelance
2. Professional conduct: standards, codes of practice, networking
3. Sourcing/managing terminology
4. Translation memory tools
5-7. Groupwork: Project 1 (set texts)
8-10. Groupwork: Project 2 (students choice)
11. Presentations

Essential Reading and Resource List

Robinson, D. (2004). Becoming a translator: An Introduction to the Theory and Practice of Translation, London: Routledge.

Samuelsson-Brown (2010) A practical guide for Translators.


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