Translation and language learning - Geneviève Zarate

TL;DR

This content discusses the diversity of translation practices, the importance of considering educational cultures, and the need for a more comprehensive understanding of translation in language education.

Transcript

okay I give the FL who is let me speak please leave me the microphone so Shan a professor at the National Institute of Oriental languages and civilization so you're going to wetter appetites and by telling us what you think of this study yes maybe I'll be uh putting a bit of vinegar into the whole debate now I am meant to reply to these five questi... Read More

Key Insights

• 😒 Translation encompasses various types and definitions, making it crucial to consider its diverse uses and contexts.
• 🍧 Educational cultures greatly influence translation practices, with different countries having their unique approaches to language teaching.
• 🧑‍🎓 Using translation solely for evaluating students' skills may undermine their participation and exclude them from the shared meaning-making process.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the different definitions of translation mentioned in the content?

The content suggests three definitions of translation: language as a system described by its morphology, syntax, and spelling; language as a means of communication; and language as a means of social communication. These definitions highlight the different contexts in which translation can occur.

Q: How does translation differ in education systems in France and China?

In France, translation practices vary depending on teacher training and educational institutions, reflecting the diverse educational culture. In contrast, Chinese teaching practices heavily rely on translation, with students using electronic dictionaries and teachers providing immediate translation in class as a fundamental part of language teaching.

Q: What is the downside of using translation solely for evaluating student skills?

The content argues that using translation as an evaluation tool focuses on student errors and creates a deficit-based approach. This approach excludes students from actively participating in the translation process and assumes that translation is a one-way transfer of skills without shared ownership.

Q: How does translation relate to communication and the delegation of power?

Translation plays a significant role in communication by regulating the transfer of meaning. The content argues that translation is not merely a task to be delegated to a single skilled individual but should be part of general training. It suggests that students should have the ability to intervene and take ownership of the translation process to have a shared understanding in communication.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The content highlights the various definitions and types of translation, emphasizing that a single term cannot encompass its full range of uses.

• It explores the diversity of translation practices in different countries, such as France and China, and the impact of education systems on these practices.

• The content argues that translation should not be solely used for evaluating student skills and that it involves shared meaning and the delegation of power.