MA in Celtic Studies

Module Descriptor - Paper Translation: Theory and Practice

Department: Welsh
Module Code: MAEB0620W
Level: postgraduate
No of Credits: 20
Methods of assessment: see below
Teaching Method(s):distance learning, directed learning, e-mail tutorials
Pre-requisite(s): none
Co-requisite(s): none
Incompatibles: none
Medium: Welsh
Contact hours : n/a
Term taught: flexible enrollment
Lecturers: Dr Elisa Moras

Syllabus:

This module will equip the student with the principles and methodology of translation which will enable him/her to express accurately and clearly the meaning expressed in the source language, in the natural forms of the receptor language. Students are introduced to the basic tools necessary for successful translation – dictionaries, specialized vocabularies, grammars.

The course establishes the different types of translations, on a continuum from highly literal through formal equivalence and meaning based to unduly free. Techniques are discussed for handling figures of speech, unfamiliar concepts and mismatch of grammatical categories.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this module students will be expected to:

• classify different kinds of translations, and apply the principles of dynamic equivalent and formal equivalent translation;
• recognize and identify figures of speech and symbolic language in both the target and the source language texts, and be able to suggest a variety of translation options;
• explain the translation problems involved in lexical items with multiple senses, and concepts not common in the receptor language.

Method of Assessment:

The principles taught will be applied in a series of practical assignments and a portfolio of work of approximately 2,500 words will be submitted for assessment which will be indicative of the learning outcomes. Candidates are also required to select a minimum of six but no more than twelve relevant challenges, commentating on the translation challenges to reveal the possible options available to the translator in arriving at a solution to each difficulty and to justify the ultimate choice made.

Transferable and other skills involved:

This module should enable students to:

• acquire enhanced bilingual communication skills;
• improve written and translation skills useful in the bilingual working environment;
• discuss a wide range of theoretical issues relating to teaching strategies and effective bilingual communication;
• demonstrate improved vocational skills.  

Select bibliography:

• Baker, Mona, In other Words ( London , 1992).
• Basnett-McGuire, Susan, Translation Studies ( London , 1991).
• Dollerup, Cay and Anne Loddegaard (eds.), Teaching Translation and Interpreting.Training, Talent and Experience ( Amsterdam and Philadelphia,1992).
• Dollerup, Cay and Annette Lindegaard (eds.), Teaching Translation and Interpreting 2 ( Amsterdam and Philadelphia, 1994).
• Dollerup, Cay and Vibeke Appel (eds.), Teaching Translation and Interpreting 3 ( Amsterdam and Philadelphia, 1995).
• Gutt, E. A., Translation and relevance, cognition and contest , ( Oxford, 1991).

Evaluation:

Module evaluation questionnaires covering all aspects such as presentation, delivery and assessment will be distributed to students at the end of the module. All distance-learning students within the Department are also invited to submit comments via the Director of e-learning to termly meetings of the Departmental Staff-Student Consultative Committee. The course is also subject to annual reports by the External Examiner and periodic review by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education.