Students

TRAN905 – Specialised Translation Practice

2018 – S2 Day

General Information

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Unit convenor and teaching staff Unit convenor and teaching staff Unit Convenor
Yan Qian
Contact via Email
12 SW 556
TBA
Unit Lecturer
Adelis Huang
12 SW 539
TBA
Credit points Credit points
4
Prerequisites Prerequisites
TRAN820
Corequisites Corequisites
Co-badged status Co-badged status
Unit description Unit description
Professional translators are required to be adaptable to a broad range of institutional settings and the related genres. The aim of this unit is to provide translation students with the opportunity to discuss and practice advanced translation skills in specialised areas such as medicine, law, technology and business. Students will analyse the complex linguistic, cultural and ethical challenges of translating specialised documents. They will explore theoretical and practical aspects of different specialised domains, and terminology and discourse. Applied aspects of this unit focus on the specific expectation and challenges faced by translators working in different institutional settings, preparing them for professional practice in specific translation markets and working with professionals in other fields. This unit will comprise a mix of combined and language-specific sessions.

Important Academic Dates

Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

  • Demonstrate advanced translating skills and techniques
  • Apply theoretical and integrated knowledge of established principles and recent developments in specialist translation studies
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the role of the specialist translators working with professionals in other fields
  • Discuss the linguistic, cultural and ethical issues faced by translators working in specialised domains/institutional settings
  • Identify appropriate translation techniques to be used with specialist texts
  • Develop specialist translation skills in both language directions (English and LOTE)
  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills of technological applications for the practice of translation
  • Generate creative solutions to complex problems arising in translation practice in relation to translational choices, interpersonal relations and professional conduct
  • Communicate theoretical concepts relevant to specialised translating practice for the benefit of peers, clients and the general public
  • Manage major translation projects in specialised settings

General Assessment Information

How to apply for a late submission of an assignment

All requests for special consideration, including extensions, must be submitted via  https://ask.mq.edu.au/ and provide suitable supporting documentation. Contact your unit convenor first for advice, especially in the case of an emergency or if you are unsure about the extension policy.

Late Assignment Submission

  • Late submissions without an extension will receive a penalty of 5% of the total mark available for the assignment per day
  • Late submission of an assignment without an extension will not be permitted after marks have been released to the rest of the class.
  • Extensions will only be given in special circumstances, and can be requested by completing the Special Consideration request at ask.mq.edu.au and providing the requisite supporting documentation. For more information on Special Consideration, see the university website https://students.mq.edu.au/study/my-study-program/special-consideration
  • Assignments submitted after the deadline, regardless of the reason, will be marked and returned at a date determined by the unit convenor.
  • Extensions cannot continue beyond the start of the following semester except under exceptional circumstances, and students should be aware that long extensions may impact graduation dates.  

Assessment Tasks

Name Weighting Hurdle Due
Major Translation Project 50% No Week 13
Translation Assignment 30% No Various
Learning Journal 20% No Week 14

Major Translation Project

Due: Week 13
Weighting: 50%

Students will be required to complete a major translation project of approximately 5000 words in either direction. Project planning and management, and peer learning activities are part of this task.


On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Demonstrate advanced translating skills and techniques
  • Apply theoretical and integrated knowledge of established principles and recent developments in specialist translation studies
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the role of the specialist translators working with professionals in other fields
  • Discuss the linguistic, cultural and ethical issues faced by translators working in specialised domains/institutional settings
  • Identify appropriate translation techniques to be used with specialist texts
  • Develop specialist translation skills in both language directions (English and LOTE)
  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills of technological applications for the practice of translation
  • Generate creative solutions to complex problems arising in translation practice in relation to translational choices, interpersonal relations and professional conduct
  • Communicate theoretical concepts relevant to specialised translating practice for the benefit of peers, clients and the general public
  • Manage major translation projects in specialised settings

Translation Assignment

Due: Various
Weighting: 30%

Students will be required to complete various specialised translation tasks of 300 to 500 words each and in both directions


On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Demonstrate advanced translating skills and techniques
  • Apply theoretical and integrated knowledge of established principles and recent developments in specialist translation studies
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the role of the specialist translators working with professionals in other fields
  • Discuss the linguistic, cultural and ethical issues faced by translators working in specialised domains/institutional settings
  • Identify appropriate translation techniques to be used with specialist texts
  • Develop specialist translation skills in both language directions (English and LOTE)
  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills of technological applications for the practice of translation
  • Generate creative solutions to complex problems arising in translation practice in relation to translational choices, interpersonal relations and professional conduct
  • Communicate theoretical concepts relevant to specialised translating practice for the benefit of peers, clients and the general public

Learning Journal

Due: Week 14
Weighting: 20%

Students are required to maintain a weekly learning journal to reflect on the learning experience, problem solving strategies in dealing with specialised translations and to compile and edit specialist glossaries.


On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Demonstrate advanced translating skills and techniques
  • Apply theoretical and integrated knowledge of established principles and recent developments in specialist translation studies
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the role of the specialist translators working with professionals in other fields
  • Discuss the linguistic, cultural and ethical issues faced by translators working in specialised domains/institutional settings
  • Identify appropriate translation techniques to be used with specialist texts
  • Develop specialist translation skills in both language directions (English and LOTE)
  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills of technological applications for the practice of translation
  • Generate creative solutions to complex problems arising in translation practice in relation to translational choices, interpersonal relations and professional conduct
  • Communicate theoretical concepts relevant to specialised translating practice for the benefit of peers, clients and the general public
  • Manage major translation projects in specialised settings

Delivery and Resources

3 hours' lectures a week, with language specific assignment feedback sessions in some weeks.

Policies and Procedures

Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central (https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policy-central). Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:

Undergraduate students seeking more policy resources can visit the Student Policy Gateway (https://students.mq.edu.au/support/study/student-policy-gateway). It is your one-stop-shop for the key policies you need to know about throughout your undergraduate student journey.

If you would like to see all the policies relevant to Learning and Teaching visit Policy Central (https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policy-central).

Student Code of Conduct

Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/study/getting-started/student-conduct​

Results

Results shown in iLearn, or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au.

Student Support

Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/

Learning Skills

Learning Skills (mq.edu.au/learningskills) provides academic writing resources and study strategies to improve your marks and take control of your study.

Student Services and Support

Students with a disability are encouraged to contact the Disability Service who can provide appropriate help with any issues that arise during their studies.

Student Enquiries

For all student enquiries, visit Student Connect at ask.mq.edu.au

IT Help

For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/information_technology/help/

When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.

Graduate Capabilities

PG - Capable of Professional and Personal Judgment and Initiative

Our postgraduates will demonstrate a high standard of discernment and common sense in their professional and personal judgment. They will have the ability to make informed choices and decisions that reflect both the nature of their professional work and their personal perspectives.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate advanced translating skills and techniques
  • Apply theoretical and integrated knowledge of established principles and recent developments in specialist translation studies
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the role of the specialist translators working with professionals in other fields
  • Discuss the linguistic, cultural and ethical issues faced by translators working in specialised domains/institutional settings
  • Identify appropriate translation techniques to be used with specialist texts
  • Develop specialist translation skills in both language directions (English and LOTE)
  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills of technological applications for the practice of translation
  • Generate creative solutions to complex problems arising in translation practice in relation to translational choices, interpersonal relations and professional conduct
  • Communicate theoretical concepts relevant to specialised translating practice for the benefit of peers, clients and the general public
  • Manage major translation projects in specialised settings

Assessment tasks

  • Major Translation Project
  • Translation Assignment
  • Learning Journal

PG - Discipline Knowledge and Skills

Our postgraduates will be able to demonstrate a significantly enhanced depth and breadth of knowledge, scholarly understanding, and specific subject content knowledge in their chosen fields.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate advanced translating skills and techniques
  • Apply theoretical and integrated knowledge of established principles and recent developments in specialist translation studies
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the role of the specialist translators working with professionals in other fields
  • Discuss the linguistic, cultural and ethical issues faced by translators working in specialised domains/institutional settings
  • Identify appropriate translation techniques to be used with specialist texts
  • Develop specialist translation skills in both language directions (English and LOTE)
  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills of technological applications for the practice of translation
  • Generate creative solutions to complex problems arising in translation practice in relation to translational choices, interpersonal relations and professional conduct
  • Communicate theoretical concepts relevant to specialised translating practice for the benefit of peers, clients and the general public
  • Manage major translation projects in specialised settings

Assessment tasks

  • Major Translation Project
  • Translation Assignment
  • Learning Journal

PG - Critical, Analytical and Integrative Thinking

Our postgraduates will be capable of utilising and reflecting on prior knowledge and experience, of applying higher level critical thinking skills, and of integrating and synthesising learning and knowledge from a range of sources and environments. A characteristic of this form of thinking is the generation of new, professionally oriented knowledge through personal or group-based critique of practice and theory.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate advanced translating skills and techniques
  • Apply theoretical and integrated knowledge of established principles and recent developments in specialist translation studies
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the role of the specialist translators working with professionals in other fields
  • Discuss the linguistic, cultural and ethical issues faced by translators working in specialised domains/institutional settings
  • Identify appropriate translation techniques to be used with specialist texts
  • Develop specialist translation skills in both language directions (English and LOTE)
  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills of technological applications for the practice of translation
  • Generate creative solutions to complex problems arising in translation practice in relation to translational choices, interpersonal relations and professional conduct
  • Communicate theoretical concepts relevant to specialised translating practice for the benefit of peers, clients and the general public
  • Manage major translation projects in specialised settings

Assessment tasks

  • Major Translation Project
  • Translation Assignment
  • Learning Journal

PG - Research and Problem Solving Capability

Our postgraduates will be capable of systematic enquiry; able to use research skills to create new knowledge that can be applied to real world issues, or contribute to a field of study or practice to enhance society. They will be capable of creative questioning, problem finding and problem solving.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate advanced translating skills and techniques
  • Apply theoretical and integrated knowledge of established principles and recent developments in specialist translation studies
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the role of the specialist translators working with professionals in other fields
  • Discuss the linguistic, cultural and ethical issues faced by translators working in specialised domains/institutional settings
  • Identify appropriate translation techniques to be used with specialist texts
  • Develop specialist translation skills in both language directions (English and LOTE)
  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills of technological applications for the practice of translation
  • Generate creative solutions to complex problems arising in translation practice in relation to translational choices, interpersonal relations and professional conduct
  • Communicate theoretical concepts relevant to specialised translating practice for the benefit of peers, clients and the general public
  • Manage major translation projects in specialised settings

Assessment tasks

  • Major Translation Project
  • Translation Assignment
  • Learning Journal

PG - Effective Communication

Our postgraduates will be able to communicate effectively and convey their views to different social, cultural, and professional audiences. They will be able to use a variety of technologically supported media to communicate with empathy using a range of written, spoken or visual formats.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate advanced translating skills and techniques
  • Apply theoretical and integrated knowledge of established principles and recent developments in specialist translation studies
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the role of the specialist translators working with professionals in other fields
  • Discuss the linguistic, cultural and ethical issues faced by translators working in specialised domains/institutional settings
  • Identify appropriate translation techniques to be used with specialist texts
  • Develop specialist translation skills in both language directions (English and LOTE)
  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills of technological applications for the practice of translation
  • Generate creative solutions to complex problems arising in translation practice in relation to translational choices, interpersonal relations and professional conduct
  • Communicate theoretical concepts relevant to specialised translating practice for the benefit of peers, clients and the general public
  • Manage major translation projects in specialised settings

Assessment tasks

  • Major Translation Project
  • Translation Assignment
  • Learning Journal

PG - Engaged and Responsible, Active and Ethical Citizens

Our postgraduates will be ethically aware and capable of confident transformative action in relation to their professional responsibilities and the wider community. They will have a sense of connectedness with others and country and have a sense of mutual obligation. They will be able to appreciate the impact of their professional roles for social justice and inclusion related to national and global issues

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate advanced translating skills and techniques
  • Apply theoretical and integrated knowledge of established principles and recent developments in specialist translation studies
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the role of the specialist translators working with professionals in other fields
  • Discuss the linguistic, cultural and ethical issues faced by translators working in specialised domains/institutional settings
  • Identify appropriate translation techniques to be used with specialist texts
  • Develop specialist translation skills in both language directions (English and LOTE)
  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills of technological applications for the practice of translation
  • Generate creative solutions to complex problems arising in translation practice in relation to translational choices, interpersonal relations and professional conduct
  • Communicate theoretical concepts relevant to specialised translating practice for the benefit of peers, clients and the general public
  • Manage major translation projects in specialised settings

Assessment tasks

  • Major Translation Project
  • Translation Assignment
  • Learning Journal