KSA 2109 KISWAHILI TRANSLATION AND INTERPRETATION CU 4 CH 60
Course Objectives
1. To introduce students to the concept of translation in general
2. To help learners to understand the steps in the translation process
3. To help students to appreciate the challenges that underlie the translation exercise and
how to overcome them
Course Description
This course describes the theory and approaches to translation together with a brief history and
role of translation and its value to society. Characteristics of a good translation and a good
translator are also considered. In addition, the course details steps in the translation process, the
types of translation and introduces the learner to text analysis. It also focuses on the difference
between literal and idiomatic translation and emphasizes the effects of culture to translation, as
well as the challenges of translation. The course will also introduce the learner to the art of
interpretation, with particular emphasis on types and importance and attendant challenges of
interpretation. The course will be punctuated with regular, practical exercises in both translation
and interpretation.
Course Outline
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Definition, role and brief history of translation
Concept of ‘translation theory’
The value of translation
Steps in translation
Qualities of a good translation
Types of translation: literal and idiomatic
Practical exercises in translation
The art of interpretation: Modes of Interpretation
Types of Interpreting
Importance of interpretation
Memory training: storage and delivery
Factors that affect interpretation
Role of interpretation in society
Problems of interpretation
Cross-cultural interpretation
Practical exercises in interpretation
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, the learner should be able to:
(i)
define and tell the role of translation
(ii)
describe procedure in a translation exercise
(iii)
explain the qualities of and work towards achieving a good translation
Mode of Delivery
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Lectures
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Group Discussion
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Role Play
Mode of Assessment
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Course work and Oral presentations will contribute 30%
-
Final Examination will constitute 70%
References
Bassnett, S. (1991) Translation Studies. London: Oxford University Press, Clays Ltd,
Larson, L. M. (1984) Meaning Based Translation. London: University Press of America
Larson, L. M. (1984) Meaning-Based Translation: A Guide to Cross-Language
Equivalenc, University Press of America.
Mwansoko, H.J.M. et al (2006) Kitangulizi cha Tafsiri: Nadharia na Mbinu
(Toleo la Pili). Taasisi ya Uchunguzi wa Kiswahili, Chuo Kikuu cha Dar es Salaam.
Nida, E & Taber, C. (1960) The Theory and Practice of Translation, E.J Brill, Leiden
Yaa, J.D. (1975) A Guide to English/Kiswahili Translation. Nairobi: Comb Books.