Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

This module aims to:
*Introduce the principles of simultaneous interpreting
*Lay the foundation of developing the professional skills for simultaneous interpreting training

Building on the knowledge and skills acquired in CHN7015 Sight Translation and CHN7016 Consecutive Interpreting modules, this module is designed to lay the foundation for developing the professional skills of simultaneous interpreting. The course starts with a general introduction to the principles of simultaneous interpreting, including the latest development in the industry, such as remote simultaneous interpreting (RSI), and follows up with a series of preparatory exercises to help students develop the concentration necessary for listening and speaking at the same time, i.e. cognitive multitasking. Key skills and strategies for simultaneous interpreting will be introduced and practised.

Outline Of Syllabus

This skill-based syllabus will be delivered in overlapping sequences for achieving the best teaching and learning results.

1. Introduction to interpreting, including basic model of SI and remote interpreting settings and skills
2. Multi-tasking exercises (1) Basic and smart shadowing
3. Multi-tasking exercises (2) Basic SI for identifying problems & bottlenecks
4. SI Coping Tactics (1) Comprehension
5. SI Coping Tactics (2) Delivery
6. SI Coping Tactics (3) Ear-Voice-Span management: how close or how far to follow the speaker
7. Basic operations of remote simultaneous interpreting (RSI)

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

Students should achieve the following knowledge outcomes:
*Understanding of basic models of simultaneous interpreting
*Understanding of preparatory exercises for simultaneous interpreting training
*Understanding of the basic RSI operations of online conferences.

Intended Skill Outcomes

Students should achieve the following skills outcomes:
*Ability to carry out multi-tasking exercises and perform basic simultaneous interpreting practices
*Ability to apply basic simultaneous interpreting skills / strategies and interpret speeches of increasing length on various subject areas from the basic level
*Ability to carry out basic RSI operations of online conferences, including working with booth-mate-at-distance
*Basic research skills and preparation techniques for interpreters, building up the base of background knowledge
*Ability of monitoring, peer- and self-evaluation skills based on the models of simultaneous interpreting

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The scheduled practical and small group teaching sessions provide guidance and input in interpreting skills and subject contents, enabling students to do guided practices in class and independent learning at home. The scheduled practical activities, i.e. remote simultaneous interpreting (RSI) and mock conference, enable students to prepare and perform interpreting tasks assigned to them, putting their skills to the test in simulated real-life settings. The contact hours are conducted in consideration of the specialised nature of the interpreting skills, especially remote interpreting, which requires intensive guided training. Nonetheless, students are encouraged to spend as much time as possible in private study with the support of online and offline learning resources, including the Teams Online Booths.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

Building up their interpreting experience to cope with different scenarios as the training progress over the course, the end-of-semester interpreting examination allows students to demonstrate their interpreting skills in a simulated real world setting, including RSI. The simultaneous interpreting exam creates a situation where the candidates can perform under a realistic work condition as a conference interpreter. Preparation materials will be provided in advance, allowing students to exercise their research and preparation skills for interpreting assignment, including remote simultaneous interpreting (RSI).
During the course of the study, students will be given a mock exam as formative assessment. This approach allows the students time to reflect on their learning without undue pressure, and make progress according to individuals’ different pace of learning, including familiarising with the RSI technical operations.

General Notes

N/A