The module is designed to explore the theory and practice of translation from a variety of linguistic and cultural perspectives and to introduce students to research methods in the field of Translation Studies. Particular emphasis is placed on engaging critically with major concepts and models in the discipline drawing on examples from a wide range of languages and text types

The module entails a wide-ranging study of key issues in translation studies focusing on twentieth century and contemporary developments. It examines a variety of approaches to analysing the product and process of translation such as linguistic models (e.g. Vinay and Darbelnet's model and stylistic shifts), functionalist and communicative approaches (e.g. Holz-Mänttäri's theory of 'translatorial action', Vermeer's skopos theory and Nord's text-analysis model), discourse analysis approaches as well as the cultural and ideological turn (e.g. Snell-Hornby; Bassnett and Lefevere). Students will critically engage with key concepts in contemporary translation theory such as equivalence, the translator's visibility and ethical issues, foreignization and domestication, ideological positioning and translatorial habitus and their significance in a wider cultural and socio-cultural context. The role of new technologies and their impact on translation theory will be investigated with a particular focus on audio-visual translation, localisation and globalisation.

On successful completion of the module, students should be able to: • Demonstrate knowledge of the historical context and an understanding of the main issues and concepts in the field of translation studies. • Apply this understanding to the investigation of aspects of translation practice. • Synthesize complex translation models and apply them to the research and analysis of data. • Evaluate the relevance of translation studies in the wider socio-cultural context. • Produce academic work, both orally and in writing on the subject of translation.

On successful completion of the module, students should be able to: • Demonstrate awareness of the social responsibility of the translation profession and sensitivity to ethical issues around localisation, globalisation and the fragility of the 'linguistic ecosystem'.

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The module will involve two hours of contact per week. Students will be provided with an introduction to key issues and terms and provided with a guided list of theoretical readings. Theoretical discussion will be combined with the application of concepts to examples and case studies as well as research questions for further exploration. Students will develop greater capacity in collaboration and critical thinking skills through group work activities. Confidence in applying disciplinary knowledge and problem solving will be encouraged by students undertaking a translation studies project and presenting findings in both written and oral format.