Distance-Learning Strategies in Campus-Based Translator Education

Tesis , 2001 , 80 Páginas , Calificación: 1,0 (A)

Estudios de América - Otros

The profession of translation operates on the cutting edge of globalization. Both practicing professionals and researchers testify to an increasing use of computer tools in general, and information and communication technologies in particular, by translators when they conduct their work. Translators and their clients, as well as their colleagues, are frequently located in different parts of the world and rely on electronic tools to exchange information between one another.

University-level translator education is attempting to keep up with these developments, but in light of the financial constraints, it cannot help but fall behind in its effort to realistically emulate the translator′s profession and to prepare students for their lives as professional translators. There is clearly a need for effective computer use in the translator education classroom to ensure that the students′ transition between graduation and entry into the workforce will not become even more difficult than it already is.

Practitioners in distance education have long been forced to devise new economically and educationally efficient strategies to prepare students for their later professions. These strategies possess the potential to aid translator education in its struggle of incorporating computers as an integral part of the educational process.

This thesis commences by defining distance education and by introducing different forms thereof. Various examples are discussed, as well as positive and negative attitudes towards distance education and the main differences to campus-based education. Based on these findings, the relevance for translator education (Chapters 1 and 2) is presented. After introducing the basic theory of a constructivist approach to learning (Chapter 3) and discussing pertinent skills of professional translators (Chapter 4), Chapter 5 proposes specific distance-learning environments for three different types of classes in university-level translator education, as well as additional benefits of employing distance learning environments. Finally, Chapter 6 briefly reviews the major points of this thesis and draws the germane conclusion.
This thesis is mainly geared toward the academic community in translator education in an effort to bring this matter to the forefront of discussion. [...]

Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)

• Introduction
• 1. Skepticism Vs. Opportunity
• 2. Distance Education; More than a Collection of Hardware
  • 2.1 Time and Space - the Key Differences
  • 2.2 Physical and Virtual Locations - - the Classroom
  • 2.3 Independence and Responsibility - the Philosophy
  • 2.4 Which Path Should Translator Education Take with Regard to Distance Education?
• 3. Changing from an Objectivist to a Constructivist Educational Philosophy and from Teaching to Learning
  • 3.1 Objectivism
  • 3.2 Constructivism
  • 3.3 An Argument for a Constructivist Learning Environment in Translator Education
• 4. Translator Education, More than the Substitution of Words
  • 4.1 Meaning and Understanding among Cultures
  • 4.2 Subject Matter Knowledge
  • 4.3 Text
  • 4.4 Research
  • 4.5 Computer Literacy
• 5. Employing Distance-Learning Strategies to Improve Translator Education
  • 5.1 Primary Objectives
    • 5.1.1 Seminars
    • 5.1.2 Ergänzungsfächer
    • 5.1.3 Translation Classes
  • 5.2 Secondary Objectives
    • 5.2.1 Preparation for an Increasingly Diversified Job Market
    • 5.2.2 Cultural Awareness
    • 5.2.3 Lifelong Learning
• 6. Towards a More Effective Learning Environment in Translator Education

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)

This thesis examines the potential benefits of employing distance-learning strategies within the context of university-level translator education. It explores the evolution of distance education and its application to the changing landscape of the translation profession. The main goal is to present a compelling argument for the incorporation of distance-learning techniques in order to better prepare future translators for the demands of the globalized job market.

• The evolution and impact of distance education on higher education
• The changing nature of the translation profession and the increasing reliance on technology
• The benefits and challenges of integrating distance-learning strategies into translator education
• The shift from an objectivist to a constructivist educational philosophy in translator education
• The role of technology and computer literacy in the training of professional translators

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)

• Introduction: This chapter introduces the thesis's central argument: the need for translator education to embrace distance-learning strategies to effectively prepare students for the demands of the globalized job market. It highlights the increasing use of technology in the translation profession and the importance of incorporating these advancements into the educational process.
• 1. Skepticism Vs. Opportunity: This chapter explores the historical development of distance education, tracing its roots from traditional correspondence courses to the modern utilization of information and communication technologies. It analyzes the changing perception of distance education, from a necessary evil to a vast opportunity, and examines the potential it holds for bridging the gap between academia and the professional world.
• 2. Distance Education; More than a Collection of Hardware: This chapter delves into the defining characteristics of distance education, emphasizing the unique aspects that set it apart from traditional campus-based education. It discusses the crucial differences in time and space, physical and virtual learning environments, and the inherent emphasis on student independence and responsibility. The chapter also examines the philosophical underpinnings of distance education and its implications for the pedagogy of translator education.
• 3. Changing from an Objectivist to a Constructivist Educational Philosophy and from Teaching to Learning: This chapter explores the shift from objectivist to constructivist learning theories and their relevance to translator education. It examines the theoretical frameworks of these two approaches, outlining their key principles and pedagogical implications. The chapter argues for the adoption of a constructivist learning environment, highlighting its potential to empower students, foster critical thinking, and promote independent learning.
• 4. Translator Education, More than the Substitution of Words: This chapter delves into the specific skills and knowledge required for professional translators. It explores the multifaceted nature of translation, emphasizing the importance of cultural understanding, subject matter expertise, text analysis, research skills, and computer literacy. The chapter provides a detailed account of the essential competencies needed for success in the translation profession.
• 5. Employing Distance-Learning Strategies to Improve Translator Education: This chapter explores the practical application of distance-learning strategies in specific translator education courses. It outlines a range of approaches for various course types, including seminars, supplementary subjects, and translation classes. The chapter also discusses the secondary benefits of utilizing distance-learning environments, such as preparing students for a diverse job market, fostering cultural awareness, and promoting lifelong learning.

Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)

This thesis focuses on the key themes of distance education, translator education, technology integration, constructivist learning, and the changing landscape of the translation profession. The work examines the potential benefits of employing distance-learning strategies in various aspects of translator education, highlighting the significance of computer literacy and cultural awareness for professional translators in today's globalized environment. This research seeks to contribute to the ongoing discourse surrounding the effective use of technology in translator education and its impact on preparing students for successful careers in the field.

• Universidad: Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (Applied Language and Literature Studies)
• Calificación: 1,0 (A)
• Autor: Rene Hoffmann (Autor)
• Año de publicación: 2001
• Páginas: 80
• No. de catálogo: V9576
• ISBN (Ebook): 9783638162418
• Idioma: Inglés
• Etiqueta: computer, distance learning, virtual classroom, Internet, E-mail