module specification

This is a work based learning module that offers an introduction to real-life translation situations in the setting of a Language Service Provider (LSP). The module builds on prior learning gained from academic studies and other relevant experience.  It aims to enhance the student's understanding of the sector through applying their knowledge to practical work based situations. Students will have the opportunity to recognise the benefits of work experience by developing soft skills of interest to employers and extend their translation-related skills. The module aims to develop employability skills and competences by exploring career options and networking opportunities with future employers.

Students are required to undertake a minimum of 105 hours, equivalent to 15 full working days (based on 7 working hours per day). The minimum hours can be completed full-time or part-time during the summer after completion of level 5 modules, or over the autumn semester at level 6.
The responsibility for finding a suitable placement lies with the student, but support is available to find and apply for suitable opportunities not only through the module leader but also via the GSBL Placements and Employability Unit and University Careers service.
The module leader will assess the suitability of the proposed placement and approve as appropriate.

Detailed guidance on the module requirements and the assessment will be provided during the workshops and via WebLearn.

  Managing Translation - TR5057

The syllabus will focus on preparing students for the module requirements.  It will be determined by the negotiated learning agreement compiled by the student, the employer and the module leader.

The module will provide opportuntiies to combine practical work with academic reflection via pre-placement workshops where the placement tutor will give an overview of the industry and potential placement opportunities available within it. The application process will be explained paying special attention to the production of  a skills-based CV .   The workshops will cover work placement ethics, Health and Safety in the workplace and setting personal goals.

A further workshop will invite students to discuss  their own placement experience and the presentation of skills in the placement report.

Learning Outcomes LO1 - LO4

Students are supported in their learning and development through group sessions and individual guidance and feedback. They attend three group introductory sessions where the module leader explains the requirements of the module, including the student’s responsibility of finding a placement and notifying the University of details of the placement, organisation, tasks and dates, along with health and safety information and employer liabilty insurance details.

The placement report will be explained in detail.  Students will critically analyse the working environment, its structures, major activities and responsibilities and will participate in tasks allocated to them by the Placement provider. Typically, they may be involved in proof-reading and editing, researching, producing first drafts of translations,  project management, but they will also participate in the clerical and administrative activities necessary in a translation environment which offers opportunities for reflection and PDP.  With this,  they will recognise the benefits of work experience to enhance future employability.

Individual support is available on request throughout the academic year.

All the teaching materials and information on placement preparation including assessment will be available on WebLearn.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:

1. Describe how they have acquired knowledge of the requirements of the professional translation environment, as well as of the structures, major activities, responsibilities and resources used in the organisation where the placement was carried out.

2. Reflect critically on their performance in the workplace and how that learning will benefit their future employability.

3. Apply theory to practice and critically evaluate the procedures and challenges encountered in the workplace.

4. Act professionally and in a socially responsible manner during their placement.

The assessment promotes development of the student’s ability to evaluate their skills and competences, as well as their contribution to the organisation. They will reflect on the development of professional skills and competencies necessary to their graduate career goals.

The assessment consists of one formative and one summative task.

The intermediate report (formative assessment) should be undertaken half-way through the placement (after completing around 40-50 hours of work).  The purpose of the formative assessment is to discus progress. The intermediate report will include a presentation of the firm, the student’s role and duties within the organisation as well as their learning objectives and a representative log providing examples of the tasks undertaken.

Students will be required to produce a placement report (summative assessment)  at the end of their placement where they will describe and analyse the work they carried out for the LSP. Then, they will evaluate their peformance in the workplace and how the tasks they performed helped them develop professional and soft skills which are required by employers.

All items of assessment will be first marked by the assigned placement tutor and a sample of the module cohort will be moderated through second marking and external examiner approval (in-line with University regulations).
Due to the nature of the assessments, marking will not be undertaken anonymously.

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