Revisiting Directionality in Translation Studies

Abstract

This study is framed by the premise that, contrary to the traditional view of directionality in translation, translators can translate efficiently into languages other than their mother tongues if they possess the necessary linguistic competence and receive the essential training. This study compares and contrasts English-Arabic and Arabic-English translations produced by first and third-year students at the Department of Translation, Yarmouk University, Jordan. The results show that third-year students outperformed first-year students as a result of studying more courses designed to develop their linguistic and non-linguistic competencies. Based on the findings, the writers suggest an action plan that can be applied to undergraduate translation programs in Jordan and other countries in order to prepare translation students for translating into English adequately. This plan focuses on four central dimensions: admission criteria, teaching writing for translators, teaching revision and developing cultural competence. Keywords: translation, directionality, market, action plan, programs.