Translator training - don't bridge the gap

TL;DR

Training translators involves models, employer preferences, student concerns, and job outcomes.

Transcript

I'm going to talk about how you train translators   and where you can decide how to do that.  And I'm going to talk about four things: I'm going to talk about  what academics think we should do and how bad   that is. I'm going to talk about what employers  think we should do and how bad they are. Then I'm   going to talk about studies of what stude... Read More

Key Insights

• 🖤 Translation training lacks empirical evidence.
• ❓ Employers prioritize accuracy in translations.
• 🧑‍🎓 Students are concerned about technology.
• ❓ Translation graduates often combine translation skills with other professions.
• 🧑‍🎓 Training should address student concerns and motivations.
• 🌉 Bridging the gap between training and industry expectations.
• ❓ Translation and interpreting skills are valuable across various professions.

Questions & Answers

Q: How are translators traditionally trained, and what are the drawbacks of this approach?

Traditionally, translators are trained based on abstract models of translation competence, lacking empirical evidence and failing to align with actual industry needs.

Q: What do employers generally prioritize when hiring translators, and why?

Employers prioritize accuracy in translations as mistakes can lead to client dissatisfaction and loss of business, impacting their bottom line.

Q: How do students view technology in translation, and how should educators address this concern?

Students are anxious about technology in translation due to fears of job displacement. Educators should address this concern by incorporating technology training in their curriculum.

Q: What are the career outcomes for translation graduates, and how do they utilize their skills?

Translation graduates often combine translation skills with other professions, utilizing their language abilities in various settings beyond traditional translation roles.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Various models of translation competence exist, but lack empirical evidence.

• Employers prioritize accuracy in translations due to client satisfaction.

• Students are anxious about technology in translation and often end up combining translation skills with other professions.