LD811 Translation principles and practices
On successful completion of this unit, the student will be able to:
Critically evaluate translated biblical texts and scholarly literature by considering underlying assumptions, historical and contemporary perspectives, hermeneutical and translation methodologies.
Demonstrate sophisticated understanding of the complex linguistic, cultural and ethical challenges which form part of the process of exegesis and Bible translation.
Apply analytical and research skills at an advanced level to identify translation difficulties in biblical texts and propose solutions to resolve them.
Collaborate with intercultural sensitivity, ethical care and Christian compassion with key stakeholders to negotiate different perspectives to arrive at mutually acceptable outcomes.
Demonstrate appropriate translation advising and teamwork skills in mentored Bible translation checking sessions and simulations, and critically reflect on their participation in light of class sessions on biblical community and hospitality.
Effective translation requires not only linguistic expertise but also hermeneutical awareness – sensitivity to how texts communicate, how readers understand, and how meaning emerges through the interaction of text and audience. In this unit students will critically engage with scholarly debates, negotiate multiple viewpoints in collaboration with others, and examine their own perspectives to make informed and nuanced exegetical and translation decisions. Special attention is given to understanding translation as a creative act that harmonises competing demands of accuracy, readability, acceptability and cultural resonance. Significant time is given for students to apply principles by examining biblical passages and interrogating exegetical and translation assumptions and methodologies. The unit will involve students in group work, reflection and translation consultant checking sessions.
Teaching in the unit is typically delivered in a 5-day intensive of 27 hours. Assessments are due across the semester.
Theoretical frameworks for exegesis and translation Ethics in Bible translation Literary and rhetorical factors in exegesis and Bible translation Bible translation as phenomenon: experience and intersubjectivity Advanced exegesis in the Gospel of Matthew Collaborative and group processes for Bible translation
Assessment types include Book Review, Group Project, Major Essay, and Reflection Paper. Indicative study load is 160 hours.
The Unit Offerings listed above are a guide only and the timetable for any year is the final authority. The College may vary offerings based on demand, regulatory requirements, continual improvement processes or other conditions.
This unit may be available in different modes of delivery i.e. online and face-to-face as listed above. The unit content will not differ between these modes of delivery. There will possibly be a difference in the schedule and/or the prescribed assessment tasks, however both will cover and assess the same content.