Investigating Translation Competence in Translator Pedagogy in the Saudi Context: A Case Study
The current research aimed to investigate the context of translator training in Saudi Arabia, in
light of PACTE’s translation competence model (2003). This involved examining different
aspects of translator training including the pedagogical practices employed in undergraduate
translation programs, program study plans, and the hiring and recruiting practices of
translators in the Saudi job market. The study also aimed to determine the perceptions of
different categories of stakeholders regarding the components of translator training, and more
specifically, the PACTE model (2003). These categories include translation students,
instructors, employers, and professional translators. To fulfil the study’s aims, the researcher
conducted a case study using a mixed methods research design as qualitative and quantitative
data were collected using questionnaires, interviews, and translation tasks, in addition to the
analysis of relevant documents (i.e., study plans and job advertisements and descriptions). The
findings of the study indicated that the PACTE translation competence model (2003) is
reflected in both study plans and job descriptions and advertisements. However, there are
some pedagogical, administrative, and professional practices that hinder the development of
translation competence in undergraduate translation programs. The findings also indicated that
translation students, instructors, and employers have varying degrees of awareness of the
components of the PACTE translation competence model (2003). In addition, the study
generated implications for policymakers, administrators in academic institutions, and
translation instructors in translation departments and programs to improve translator training
in the Saudi context, thereby contributing to the quality of graduates and translation services.
Furthermore, based on the findings of the study, the researcher proposed a framework for
undergraduate translator training programs in the Saudi context.
Purpose
The current research aimed to investigate the context of translator training in Saudi Arabia, in
light of PACTE’s translation competence model (2003). This involved examining different…
Translator training is an area that has received much interest among the research community of Translation Studies scholars. This is driven by the need for highly qualified and skilled…