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| Module Availability |
| Semester 1 |
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| Assessment Pattern |
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Unit(s) of Assessment
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Weighting towards Module Mark (%)
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Consecutive interpreting into A language
[approx. 10-15 mins]
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60%
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Reflective presentation on oral examination,
[approx. 10-15 mins]
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40%
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Qualifying Condition(s): A weighted aggregate mark of 50% is required to pass the module.
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| Module Overview |
This module is concerned with spoken-language interpreting between English and the chosen language. It provides students with a practical introduction to interpreting and with the practical skills and knowledge required to perform interpreting tasks effectively in relevant communicative situations. The focus is on consecutive interpreting. |
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| Prerequisites/Co-requisites |
First degree in English, an appropriate language or equivalent. Near-native or native competency in English. |
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| Module Aims |
The aim of this module is to provide an introduction to an interpreter’s work in professional settings and to enable students to acquire essential interpreting skills and strategies. The emphasis is on consecutive interpreting. Through a range of exercises, students will be prepared for professional interpreting tasks. In-class discussions and analyses of different interpreting situations will encourage students to develop reflective skills and a thorough understanding of an interpreter’s role. |
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| Learning Outcomes |
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
· identify the challenges of different interpreting situations,
· demonstrate the research skills necessary to prepare for interpreting tasks, e.g. terminological research,
· select interpreting strategies appropriate for the consecutive mode and the situation, and justify the selection in relation to a given situation,
· grasp, transfer and express main ideas reliably, accurately and clearly,
· take and use notes effectively,
· appraise information and communication technologies used in interpreting situations and the challenges that they create for interpreting,
· perform consecutive interpreting between English and the chosen language in a range of contexts including speeches, presentations, company tours etc.,
· work effectively under time pressure,
· apply a basic code of conduct for interpreting including issues such as impartiality and awareness of limitations. |
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| Module Content |
The module has two parts. In part one, students will be provided with a general introduction to professional interpreting situations, interpreter's work environments and essential interpreting techniques. Initial practical exercises are designed to develop and systematically improve analytical skills required for active listening and source text comprehension, memorisation and retrieval strategies, note-taking techniques and basic presentation skills.
Part two focuses on the consolidation of these skills and target text production in language-pair specific groups and with particular reference to the associated linguistic, social and cultural challenges. The emphasis is on consecutive interpreting into the students’ A language.
Students will analyse and discuss their own practice in relation to professional interpreting requirements in order to reflect on the difficulties and to develop their solutions. Furthermore, the module will include discussions of the role of the interpreter and basic rules of conduct. Students will also learn how to prepare for an interpreting assignment, including gathering information from clients, researching relevant terminology etc.
Materials will include live and recorded materials from general and semi-specialised registers. |
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| Methods of Teaching/Learning |
Classes will consist of a mix of approx. 30% teacher-led input and discussion, and 70% practical exercises, allowing for extensive practice using the Department’s facilities and including a critical evaluation of the students’ performance. Students will be recorded regularly to enable them to analyse and enhance different aspects of their performance.
Students are expected to spend at least 4 hours per week researching the subject areas and are encouraged to develop Internet and research skills to enable them to find appropriate materials for preparation. Students are also expected to spend at least 6 hours per week practising on interpreting materials, individually and in groups. Interpreting problems arising from assignments are discussed in class.
The module will normally involve twenty two hours class contact.
Resits may exceptionally require an alternative form of assessment. In such cases, the mode and/or topic of the assignment may be modified, or the assignment may be done on the basis of recorded spoken material. The achievement of the learning outcomes will be measured in the same way as in the first attempt, using the criteria for oral interpreting assignment. |
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| Selected Texts/Journals |
Essential reading
Gillies, Andrew (2005). Note-taking for consecutive interpreting. Manchester: St. Jerome.
Recommended reading
Gile, Daniel (1995). Basic concepts and models for interpreter and translator training. Amsterdam: Benjamins.
Nolan, James (2005). Interpretation. Techniques and exercises. Clevedon: Multilingual Matters.
Background reading
Barnes, Valerie (2004). A foreign affair: a passionate life in four languages. London: Bantam.
Hari, Daoud (2008). The Translator: A tribesman's memoir of Darfur. London: Penguin. |
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| Last Updated |
| 5 May 2011 |
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