Τhe Contribution of the EMT Project toward Translator Competence Acquisition: A Balance between Theoretical and Professionally Oriented Translator Training

Abstract

One of the major issues addressed in the field of translation studies concerns the contribution of translation theory to translator training and the translator’s profession. Τhe basic question that is raised in the present paper regards the role of theory in translator training programmes of the European Master’s in Translation (EMT) network. In the present paper, the structure of 64 translation programmes bringing the label of the EMT has been studied, focusing basically on the theoretical components of the particular programmes. Το this end, the aims and content of the translation theory courses offered by the EMT programmes have been extensively investigated. More specifically, after an introduction to the competence framework as defined by the EMT, teaching objectives are analyzed to examine common elements as well as those components that differentiate one programme from the other. Other matters that have been explored are related to learning methodologies such as recommended literature, learning resources and outcomes, as well as student assessment procedure. Results have clearly shown that the theoretical component of the EMT network programmes aims basically at helping students enhance various subcompetences such as methodological, social, transcultural, and critical ones that are closely related to the practice of translation and the translating profession in order to ensure a good match between graduate theoretical knowledge and requirements of the translator’s profession.