Towards a Standardized Translation Curriculum for Undergraduates in the English Studies departments

Abstract

A comparison between students of translation of different Moroccan universities led to the realization that their levels, competences and knowledge on the basics of the field were strikingly and notably contrasting and peculiar. Consequently, this causes a huge gap between students that cannot be overlooked; a balance between theory and practice must be covered during the first courses of translation in the English Studies Departments. This research will focus mainly on two major problems when it comes to translation studies and the process of teaching it as a known subject field: the involvement of other voices in the process of teaching that goes beyond the basic student-teacher transfer and the development of that involvement into a more detailed and diverse practical use of all the methods in the study. The procedure of the research will include surveys, workshops, assignments and other activities among the university classrooms, for the purpose of a complete introductory curriculum that could be integrated within the programs of Moroccan universities. This holds particular importance for Moroccan universities due to the absence of standardized curricula; each university currently designs unique programs, resulting in students acquiring diverse knowledge and training despite pursuing the same degree. Additionally, there is a substantial gap in both theory and practice of translation, with an overlap between the two and varying degrees of emphasis on each aspect. The central objective of this research is to establish a standardized curriculum, recognizing it as the foundational element in the study.

Keywords: Translation Studies, theory vs practice, curriculum building, language students in the classroom

DOI: 10.7176/JEP/14-34-07

Publication date: December 31^st 2023