Public Service Interpreting

Learning Outcomes

Subject Specific Practical Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• use interpreting resources effectively to enhance personal practice.
• advise on cross-cultural and linguistic issues related to PSI;
• provide interpreting support to a semi-professional level in different PS settings;

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• select appropriate interpreting skills and techniques required in PSI and/or in bi-cultural mediated interaction;
• assess, discuss and analyse questions reflecting on the interpreting process in both its linguistic and cultural context.
• identify concepts and data relevant to interpreting contexts and the challenges they may create for PS Interpreters;
• apply knowledge, understanding and analysis critically to different interpreting scenarios;

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• general guidelines, (self-)evaluation and further development of interpreting skills.
• various modes of PS interpreting, their main features and purposes;
• the different roles that may be required of the PS Interpreter during an assignment and role boundaries;
• challenging issues and appropriate strategies;

Transferable and Generic Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• demonstrate interpersonal skills in monolingual and bilingual interaction;
• contribute individually or collectively to problem solving activities and dealing with sensitive or challenging topics with confidence;
• adhere to guidelines and deadlines;
• communicate effectively and confidently in English and at least one other language, orally and/or in writing;
• plan and organise your learning through managing time, personal development and skills (e.g. multi-tasking, reflective/critical thinking).

The topics and/or skills covered might include:

• interpreting techniques (consecutive, simultaneous and liaison interpreting);
• intercultural awareness and specific terminology competence;
• cultural diversity (PS user and provider profiles);
• communication skills in interpreting;
• sight translation/note-taking/glossary building;
• self-evaluation and personal development;
• NRPSI code of professional conduct & guidelines;
• challenging aspects of interpreting.

Teaching methods include:

• lectures and seminars;
• role play and mediation activities;
• evaluation of student-led activities;
• blackboard as a resource;
• tutor feedback on individual and group activities.

Learning activities include:

• subject specific reading;
• providing individual and group contributions to interpreting issues introduced in class;
• use of interactive interpreting resources on a regular basis;
• assessing PSI case studies, both orally and in writing;
• sight translation/note-taking/glossary building tasks.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Repeat

An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.