Interpreting I (INT 481)
Usually offered in the Spring
DESCRIPTION
This is an introductory course in consecutive interpreting, particularly in the areas of medical, legal and conference interpreting. No prior experience in interpreting is necessary, but students must have a very strong command of English and at least one other language. During the first part of the semester we will focus on medical and legal interpreting as practiced in everyday settings (hospitals, clinics, courtrooms, lawyers’ offices), and will begin to study note-taking. Afterwards we will work almost exclusively with conference interpreting, using extensive note-taking. A single topic will be chosen by the class, and source recordings and texts will be related to this topic. We will also practice sight translation and public speaking, and will discuss ethics and standards of practice.
COURSE OBJECTIVES
Students will learn and practice the basic tools for improving their interpreting skills, such as memory and concentration enhancement exercises, summarizing, clear enunciation, and strategies for dealing with cultural and linguistic problems. In the medical and legal sections, students will interpret dialogues in role-play group formats and individually, and practice sight interpreting. In the conference interpreting section, students will interpret oral speeches from public lectures, radio addresses, news reports, and other sources related to the chosen topic.
Interpreting II (INT 482)
Usually offered in the Fall
DESCRIPTION
This is an introductory course in simultaneous interpreting. No prior experience in interpreting is necessary, but students must have a very strong command of English and at least one other language. The class will focus mostly on practice, and students will also learn about the field of interpreting through several readings. Students who have never practiced interpreting before will work from their “weaker” language into their strongest; students with more practice can work both ways. We will also practice sight translation and public speaking, and will discuss ethics and standards of practice.
COURSE OBJECTIVES
Students will learn and practice the basic tools for improving their interpreting skills, such as memory and concentration enhancement exercises, “chunking,” summarizing, increasing lag time, clear enunciation, and strategies for dealing with cultural and linguistic problems. Students will interpret oral speeches from public lectures, radio addresses, interviews, news reports, and more. Students will also learn about the field in general, and how and when simultaneous interpreting takes place. Extensive use of interpreting equipment (booth and wireless) is included.