Postgraduate Diploma in Translation and Interpreting

Purpose

Provincial departments, local government structures and NGO's need learners that require training in the field of Translation and Interpreting. The purpose of this qualification, therefore, is to develop competent language practitioners in this particular field who can assist with the efficient day-to-day administration of these various domains.

The qualification falls within the broader field of Applied Linguistics, which is a well-established and internationally recognised field of study at the graduate and postgraduate levels. There is a formal teaching component as well as exposure to the workplace through a system of an internship.

Rationale

The qualification provides an academic platform for the study of the universal practice of translation and interpreting. The qualification contributes to the intellectual and ethical skills that are necessary for the learners to function optimally in society.

The conceptual and specific aims are as follows

This qualification aims to equip the learners with a thorough understanding of translation and interpreting and its essential function within a multilingual society such as South Africa. We believe that this promotes human resource development through the provision of a qualification that is responsive to the social, cultural and economic needs of the country and which meets the highest standards of academic scholarship.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution conducts RPL according to its policy and procedures for the Recognition of Prior Learning.

Some learners may have been performing duties that reflect competencies contained in this qualification at the workplace for many years without having received any formal qualification. Learners able to demonstrate competency through the assessment criteria attached to this qualification receive Recognition of Prior Learning.

Applicants who possess short modules or qualifications in the field, which reflect learning outcomes and skills that form part of the qualification may also receive recognition upon presenting evidence.

Such learners will through this qualification, receive Recognition of Prior Learning to enable them to acquire this qualification wholly or in part. Learners in possession of an approved portfolio related to activities in the field of translation or interpreting may receive an exemption from one or more modules that form part of the qualification.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Arts in Languages or a Language major, NQF Level 7.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at NQF Level 8 totalling 144 Credits.

Compulsory Modules at Level 8, 144 Credits

• Translation Studies: Theory and Practice, 32 Credits.
• Interpreting Studies: Theory and Practice, 32 Credits.
• Language A: Applied Studies, 32 Credits.
• Language B: Applied Studies, 32 Credits.
• Internship, 16 Credits.

1. Apply knowledge of translation theory and techniques in translating written texts of a specialised and non-specialised nature, across a range of contexts.
2. Apply knowledge of interpreting techniques and methodological approaches to interpret spoken communication of a specialised and non-specialised nature.
3. Critically evaluate debates and practices around translation and interpreting.
4. Demonstrate knowledge and application of principles of professionalism and ethics in the practical field of translation and interpretation.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Demonstrate ability to write in different styles in a non-native language.
• Apply basic practical and key skills needed for professional translation.
• Produce texts that demonstrate the student's ability to encompass the requisite academic and professional knowledge relating to translation of a variety of texts in a rigorous and methodologically consistent and appropriate manner.
• Identify key elements of information in a range of different types of written text.
• Organise ideas and evidence in the production of written text.
• Use computer-based laboratory technologies in translating and use IT skills that include word-processing and use of translating and subtitling software.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Interpret spoken communication simultaneously in an oral form, both specialised and non-specialised language content.
• Apply basic practical and key skills needed for employment in professional interpreting.
• Use language that is appropriate to different spoken registers and written genres.
• Use computer-based laboratory technologies in interpreting and use IT skills that include use of interpreting software.
• Apply appropriate procedures and techniques to unfamiliar situations relating to interpretation through compilation of a portfolio comprising cases of a variety of situations and application of techniques in formal and informal environments.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Conduct research into various theories and debates relating to use of language conventions and styles in different contexts of translating and interpreting.
• Critically evaluate theories according to cultural and contextual relevance and most appropriate practices in differing situations and circumstances.
• Evaluate national and international debate on issues around translation and interpreting, with consideration of cultural context, practicality and effectiveness.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Apply knowledge and understanding of the regulatory environment and legal framework in which translation and interpretation takes place.
• Work autonomously showing organisation, time-management, self-discipline and ethical accountability.
• Display principles of professional practice, ethical issues and appropriate conduct in the working environment.
• Collaborate with others to produce mutually acceptable solutions to problems.

Integrated Assessment

The qualification utilises the following assessment strategies to achieve the purpose of the modules

• Formative and summative assessment methods such as written assignments, oral individual and group presentation, tasks and written examinations.
• An integrated assessment approach through an evaluation of assignments on translation that draws on the whole range of skills imparted in the module.
• The questions tend to be conceptual, and they test the learner's understanding of the issues discussed in the relevant unit. The tasks are more practical and refer to particular translations provided to a corpus that is put together by the learner himself/herself.