Admission requirements
Students should be sufficiently proficient in English and Dutch. This course is part of the minor Translation and cannot be taken separately.
Description
What is translation, and why does it matter? This course introduces undergraduate students to the core concepts and approaches in contemporary translation studies. It provides a broad overview of key theoretical frameworks and the role of translation in society, equipping students with the tools to think critically about translation as a practice and a field of study.
The first part of the course covers foundational theories in translation studies, including linguistic, functionalist, cultural, and sociological approaches. Students will learn how different schools of thought have shaped our understanding of translation and how these theories inform both academic inquiry and professional practice.
The second part of the course explores the role of translation and the translator in contemporary society. Topics include the ethical responsibilities of translators, the use and impact of translation technologies, and the importance of translation in enabling communication across languages and cultures in areas such as media, healthcare, and public services.
Weekly seminars will involve close reading of key texts, group discussion, and short activities to develop analytical skills.
Course objectives
By the end of the course:
Students will have introductory knowledge of translation studies at the theoretical level and based on that knowledge, students will be able to critically reflect on translation as a process and a product.
Students will be able to understand and critically reflect on appropriate research methods.
Students will be able to interpret and critically reflect on relevant literature.
Students will be able to monitor and adapt to new societal demands.
Students will be able to critically assess the relevance and impact of translation technologies on professional practices.
Students will be able to critically assess and work within the ethical principles outlined in codes of ethics and guides of good practice.
Timetable
The timetables are available through My Timetable.
Mode of instruction
- Lecture
Assessment method
Assessment
- Written examination (3-hours) with closed questions and short open questions
Weighing
- Written examination (3-hours) with closed questions and short open questions (100%)
Resit
If the final grade is below 6, students have to do a resit. The resit will consist of a written examination with short open questions (100%).
Inspection and feedback
How and when an exam review will take place will be disclosed together with the publication of the exam results at the latest. If a student requests a review within 30 days after publication of the exam results, an exam review will have to be organized.
Reading list
- J. Munday (2022). Introducing Translation Studies: Theories and Applications. London & New York: Routledge. This course book (5th edition) can be purchased at bookstores or online. It is also available as an ebook.
Additional reading materials will be made available on Brightspace.
Registration
Enrolment through MyStudyMap is mandatory.
General information about MyStudyMap is available on the website
Contact
For substantive questions, contact the lecturer listed in the right information bar.
For questions about enrolment, admission, etc, contact the Education Administration Office: Arsenaal.
Remarks
Not applicable.