University of Maryland Translation and Interpreting Workshops
The Department of Communication, University of Maryland, is offering three workshops in translation and interpreting (T/I) beginning in the fall 2011.
Taught by distinguished professionals with vast experience translating, interpreting, and teaching at international organizations, government agencies, and other academic institutions, these workshops introduce participants to the fields of translation and interpreting, prepare future students for academic certificate and degree programs, complement programs of study at other institutions, and offer professional development opportunities for working professionals.
Exploring the T/I Professions: Introduction to Computer-Assisted Translation
This workshop introduces the use of computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools to support large-scale translation projects and streamline translation processes. The discussion focuses on industry software products that utilize translation memory and terminology management systems. Participants will be introduced to the role of tools in the entire translation process from file preparation to post-editing. Participants become familiar with the use of computer tools while completing a group translation project. Participants should be working translators wishing to gain an overview of CAT tools. A personal notebook computer with the following minimum configuration is required: Windows XP or Windows 7, 2 GB of RAM, recent Pentium processor.
T/I Skill-builder: Note-taking in Consecutive Interpreting
This workshop provides an introduction and review of note-taking skills across language combinations, including exercises to develop a strong note-taking technique. The discussion begins with an overview of interpreting skills, including focus on active listening and analysis, effective use of memory, and delivery of the target message, and the support role of note-taking in this broader context. The instructors guide participants through a range of note-taking strategies, such as the use of symbols, abbreviations, and layout on the note-taking pad, and thus establish a framework for developing a personal note-taking system. Resources and materials on note-taking are presented. Guidelines are provided for self-assessment and peer feedback. Although the instructors have English, French, Korean, Portuguese, and Spanish among their working languages, this workshop is taught in a multilingual setting, and interpreters working in any language combination and wishing to enhance their note-taking skills will find it useful. Participants should have some experience interpreting in the consecutive mode.
T/I Master Class: Course Design for Interpreter Education
This workshop provides an overview of course design for interpreting and includes practical exercises in writing syllabi. The workshop begins with an overview of the principles of course design, illustrated through a discussion of the aims and goals of curricula and the sequencing of courses within curriculum models. Instruction then turns to the definition of course objectives, structure, and content and how syllabus-writing supports this design and development process. The features of the learning-centered syllabus are highlighted. Examples of syllabi that can serve as starting points are given across curricula, and resources for further reference are provided. Course participants draft syllabi in groups and individually as a first step in developing a portfolio of materials for their teaching. Options for classroom activities and interpreting exercises are included in the discussion of course design and next steps for lesson planning are presented. The principles of course design apply across language combinations and to all settings, whether community, conference, diplomatic, healthcare, legal, or military. Participants should be interpreters teaching or interested in teaching in interpreter education programs. Administrators responsible for interpreter training in their organizations may also find the workshop informative and useful.
All workshops are held at the flagship University of Maryland campus at College Park, reachable by public transportation from downtown Washington DC, and are scheduled during evenings and weekends to accommodate the needs of working professionals.
Please visit the Department of Communication website for more information on content, instructors, enrollment, fees and deadlines.
