Japanese IV: Introduction to Translation

On the successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

• explain the basic principles of translation theory
• search the information required for the translation, using appropriate resources with documentation
• analyse and translate different types of documents from Japanese to English and from English to Japanese, handling the difference of registers and vocabularies
• analyse and discuss their own and others‘ translations.

In the course the basic principles of translation theory will be introduced very briefly, though the main emphasis is placed on the practice of translating different types of documents. Texts extracted from various genres including literary works and business related documents will be analysed and translated both from Japanese to English and from English to Japanese, after having conducted appropriate documentation work. Apart from the feedback from the teacher, the accuracy and style of translation will be discussed amongst peers in order to improve the translation quality.

In order to pass the course, the students must participate actively in the class activities including peer discussions/reviews, hand in written assignments, and pass a written examination.

The course consists of lectures and discussions based on the written assignments. The students work both individually and in groups. The main teaching language is Japanese, with English as supporting language.

The Swedish grades U–VG.