Apr 26, 2015 - courses helpful and the academic plan very purposeful. ... skills through a number of online translation
TRANSLATION CONNECT
2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a
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Translation Connect is a magazine issued by the Research & Translation Center (RTC) at Prince Sultan University (PSU), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The Magazine includes diverse contributions on Translation, Language and Culture
Translation Connect is a semi-annual publication of The Research & Translation Center of Prince Sultan University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
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General Supervisor Dr. Musaed Bin Muqbil Editor-in-Chief Dr. Dina El-Dakhs Language Editor Ms. Tasneem Prue Editorial Team Dr. Wegdan Khalifah Ms. Tasneem Prue Mr. Ashraf Thaher Ms. Renee Tolson Ms. Mona Al-Yemni Design of magazine Mr. Ahmed Zidan Printing Ms. Hanan Al-Subai Photography Mr. Ahmed Zidan Ms. Sawsan Al-Madhi
For Advertising :
[email protected] Mob.: 0551652526
C O N T E N T S
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2nd English Language Studies Research Forum
The PSU Research & Translation Center (RTC) had the honor of hosting the 2nd English Language Studies Research Forum. The Forum, held on Monday, December 8, 2014, included research papers in the fields of linguistics, teaching, translation and literature
RTC Holds THREE Monthly Translation Seminars in the Second Semester of 2014 - 2015
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It was an honor for the Malaysian community at the Women Campus, Prince Sultan University to be given the opportunity by the RTC Student Translation Club to make a cultural presentation about Malaysia
In line with its commitment to offer capacity building opportunities for translator academicians, practitioners and students, The Research and Translation Center (RTC) at Prince Sultan University has continued its series of monthly translation seminars in the second semester of the academic year 2014 - 2015
The technical program of the Forum started with a talk titled «Lexical innovations in Arabic: The case of borrowed affixes» by the keynote speaker, Prof. Reima Al-Jarf, King Saud University.
13 Our Translation graduates are back at PSU!!
Malaysia, Truly Asia
Architectural Environment and Socio-Cultural Aspects
INTERVIEW WITH A LEGEND IN THE FIELD OF EDUCATION
Arabian Poets of the Jahaliyya Period
Zuhair Ibn Abee Sulma
COVER
Musaed Bin Muqbil Dean, Graduate Studies & Research PSU
From the
From the
General Supervisor
Editor-in-Chief
I
I
t is an honor indeed to write an opening word to the second edition of Translation Connect, the magazine issued semi-annually by the Research and Translation Center (RTC) at Prince Sultan
University (PSU). The Magazine, focusing on translation, language and culture, has already carved a distinctive place for itself among the publications issued by the University as well as the translation publications in the market. We have received positive feedback on the
t gives me great pleasure to write the opening word for our second edition of Translation Connect. The first edition, issued in January 2015, proved a success. It was extremely delightful to receive the positive feedback of
our readers who praised the quality of the magazine and provided us with inspiring comments and useful recommendations. With this success, much more responsibility lies on our shoulders to ensure that our upcoming issues will maintain quality standards and keep spreading knowledge, inspiration and innovation all around.
first issue from our readers in Saudi Arabia as well as different parts of the world who read through the magazine on our website. In the
On behalf of the editorial team, I welcome you all to our second edition,
second issue, we aim to preserve our readers’ confidence and present
which will again meet your expectations. We are very proud to publish for
another informative and enlightening edition that will maintain the success.
some extremely enlightening authors from different affiliations. Our authors come from varied walks of life and experience, which will add to the richness of the magazine content and the beauty of its diversity. The magazine also includes various sections; news, articles, interviews and varied selections.
Translation, language and culture are three closely inter-related
In the «News Section,» you will get to learn about relevant news about our
fields that constitute a milestone for human civilization, intercultural
Research & Translation Center, Prince Sultan University and our Translation
understanding and global development. Hence, Translation Connect
Connect. This is followed by an «Articles Section» that includes outstanding
aims to provide an inspiring platform for all specialists, practitioners
contributions, carefully selected to meet our readers’ needs. The third section
and fans to exchange knowledge, share experience and support progress in these areas on theoretical and practical grounds. Translation Connect welcomes relevant contributions from all over the world to help achieve this vision.
is dedicated for interviews. Here, you will be pleased reading through a variety of interviews with some inspiring personalities. Finally, you will enjoy our last section titled «Varied Selections.» In this section, you will be presented with translated works of literature, summaries of YouTube lectures, information about useful clubs and resources and a new standard article on famous world thinkers.
I wish all readers an enjoyable journey through our second edition. I also invite them to send their suggestions/ recommendations to the editorial team for further improvement and seriously consider submitting contributions to our upcoming issues. It is the readers’ involvement with the magazine that will help achieve its goals and meet everyone’s aspirations.
I sincerely thank each and every member of the Editorial Team, who exert great efforts to support the issuance of this distinctive publication. It has really been a pleasure cooperating with all of them. I also thank our contributors who are the backbone of the Magazine. It is their commitment to the spread of knowledge and betterment of humanity that is the driving force behind this magazine. Finally, my special thanks are extended to the readers of Translation Connect, whose confidence is our most cherished treasure.
Dr. Dina El-Dakhs Director, Research & Translation Center, College for Women, PSU
TRANSLATION CONNECT
News
Seminars
RTC Holds
3
News
Seminars
Monthly Translation Seminars
Talk Titles
Speakers
5th Translation Seminar
Dr. Inaam Perriman,
• The cultural dynamics in translation: Image making
King Saud University
• ترجمة الغائب؟ الالموجود؟
Dr. Gehan Essawy,
TRANSLATION CONNECT
Dates
Saturday, February 21, 2015 King Saud University 6th Translation Seminar
Dr. Nahed Wasfy,
• Effective Teaching Strategies of Consecutive Interpreting to Facilitate
King Saud University
Cross-Cultural Communication
Saturday, March 7, 2015 Dr. Maha Alharthy,
• Corpus Linguistics & Translation Studies
Princess Noura University
in the Second Semester of 2014 - 2015
7th Translation Seminar
Dr. Kholod Mustafa AlAkawi,
• Problems & Solutions in Teaching Translation: Lessons Learned
Imam Mohamed Bin Saud Islamic University
Tuesday, April 7, 2015
• Pragmatic Transfer in Translation & Interpretation Dr. Wegdan Khalifa, Prince Sultan University
The 5th Translation Seminar, held in
stories portraying negative images of
classified these areas into six categories;
February, consisted of two talks. The first
Arabs for his translation purposes. It was
namely;
was presented by Dr. Inaam Perriman,
noted that he refrained from commenting
meanings, cultural framework, the context
faculty member at King Saud University.
on significant, high-quality works of
in terms of time and place, referential
At the beginning, Dr. Perriman explained
literature, including Naguib Mahfouz’s.
signs,
how translation can be manipulative
He also promoted wrong beliefs about
excellent illustrations from Arabic and
whether consciously or unconsciously.
Islam including that Islam demands
French, Dr Essawy clearly showed
She particularly highlighted how ideology
absolute
determines the choice of translated
logical thought. Dr. Perriman pointed
how the translator may face challenges
texts. Translators, according to this
out that some American intellectuals
perspective, may choose texts that are in
exposed Bowles and uncovered has
line with their own thoughts and beliefs.
scandolous manipulation. However, the
The repeated exposure to a certain
influence of his translated works have
image created by translators, whether
had a large impact in the West.
faith;
hence,
discouraging
intentionally or innocently, can have a
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I
n line with its commitment to offer capacity building opportunities for translation academicians, practitioners and students, The Research and Translation Center (RTC) at Prince Sultan University has continued its series of monthly translation seminars in the second semester of the academic year 2014 - 2015. The plan for the semester included three seminars as follows:
TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
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great impact on the audience’s view
The second talk on the 5th Translation
of the source culture. After reviewing
Seminar was delivered by Dr. Gehan
a
commonly
Essawy, faculty member at King Saud
employed in translation manipulation,
University. Dr. Essawy highlighted that
Dr. Perriman shed light on the case
borders between different languages are
of the translator, Paul Bowles, who
largely shrinking leading
spent almost 50 years in Morocco. In
to greater interchange of
Perriman,s view, Bowles did not reflect
knowledge and culture.
a faithful image of Arabs as he only
However, there remain
focused on the study of the vernacular,
some areas which may
not standard, Arabic. He always focused
not be easy to translate
on fictitious stories, such as the Arabian
due to their absence in
Nights, to represent the Arab World. He
one of the languages
also directed Arab story writers to write
for
number
of
strategies
translation.
linguistic
and
levels,
neologisms.
implied
Providing
with rendering the meaning of the nonexistent in the target language. The talk then discussed the role of the translator in such contexts, highlighting that the translator should pay proper attention to the rendering of meaning, absorbing the knowledge and cultural context, and conveying the correct message while creating the intended effect of the source text. The translator here acts as a third party mediating between the author and reader, and aims to bridge gaps between
By: Dr. Dina El-Dakhs Director, Research and Translation Center
She
2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a
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TRANSLATION CONNECT
News
Forum
Seminars
languages and cultures. At the end
• Depend on context to deduce the
The second speaker on the 6th
of the talk, Dr. Essawy proposed
meaning of difficult words
Translation Seminar was Dr. Maha
solutions to facilitate the translator’s
• Be selective on what to focus on and
Al-Harthy, Vice-Dean of Graduate
mission, including the use of footnotes,
what to disregard
Studies at Princess Noura University.
writing an introduction to the translated
(2) Analysis
She delivered a significant talk on
work, avoidance of literal translation,
• Distinguish main vs. secondary ideas
the implications of Corpus Linguistics
selection of appropriate terms to reflect
• Identify the hierarchy of relative
for
the implied meaning, and commitment
importance of ideas
Harthy started her talk by giving a
to knowledge.
• Avoid delving into irrelevant details
comprehensive overview of Corpus
(3) Re-expression
Linguistics through offering definitions the
Al-
•
audience
important characteristics in corpus
Wasfy, faculty member at King Saud
• Be faithful to the original speaker and
construction,
University. Dr. Wasfy focused on the
maintain accuracy
different
stages of consecutive interpretation
• Act as public speakers
surveying numerous corpus tools that
and the relevant process of note-
In addition, Dr. Wasfy explained
have direct applications in language
taking. Regarding the consecutive
how to effectively take notes during
studies
interpretation
Wasfy
consecutive interpretation. She also
sociolinguistics,
classified consecutive interpretation
provided practical tips to overcome
and critical discourse analysis. After
into (1) understanding, (2) analysis and
commonly cited difficulties. Among the
this
(3) re-expression. The talk included
recommended tips were to take notes
shed the light on the value of Corpus
detailed description of each stage and
quickly, avoid noting everything down,
Linguistics studies on translation. In
practical tips to ensure the efficient
use short links systematically, follow
this regard, she discussed reasons why
completion of each stage. Among the
the same numbering system as the speaker, use a wide range of signs,
translators should use corpora in their
important practical tips were: (1) Understanding
and take notes in a concise and non-
• Understand ideas and meaning, not
literal manner.
only words
with
Dr.
opened with a talk by Dr. Nahed
Dr.
eye-contact
studies.
The 6th translation seminar was
stages,
Maintain
translation
of the term «corpus,» highlighting
vital
distinguishing
types
of
including
and
TRANSLATION CONNECT
RTC Holds its
2nd English Language Studies Research Forum
lexicography,
language
overview,
among
corpora,
News
teaching
Dr. Al-Harthy
translation, including the availability of instant access to language use and the ability to use corpora to confirm intuitions. The final part of the talk included reference to updated corpora available at the market, such as the Translational English Corpus (TEC) and Sketch Engine,
as well
as discussion of interesting topics for further research.
,,
At the time of writing the present article, the seventh seminar including talks on teaching translation and pragmatic transfer in translation and interpretation has already been announced, but not RTC Translation Seminars are open to PSU as well as non-PSU faculty members, students and translators. The Seminars often enjoy excellent attendance from various institutions, particularly affiliates of King Saud University, Princess Noura University and Imam Mohamed Bin Saud Islamic University.
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TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
The PSU Research & Translation Center (RTC) had the honor of hosting the 2nd English Language Studies Research Forum. The Forum, held on Monday, December 8, 2014, included research papers in the fields of linguistics, teaching, translation and literature. The Forum comprised of 13 papers, two of which were delivered by guest speakers from King Saud University. The Forum was inaugurated by Dr. Rimah Al-Yahya, Dean for the College for Women, and Dr. Musaed Bin Muqbil, Dean of Graduate Studies and Research.
,,
held yet. It is worth noting that the
By: Ms. Heba Ahmed & Ms. Nesreen Meknas PSU English Department Students
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TRANSLATION CONNECT
News
The technical program of the Forum started
a university ESL setting,» by Mr. William
with a talk titled «Lexical innovations in
Nicholas Harrison.
Arabic: The case of borrowed affixes» by
The following session addressed research
the keynote speaker, Prof. Reima Al-Jarf,
in the field of Applied Linguistics. The
King Saud University. Prof. A-Jarf surveyed
session
varied
morphological
innovations
that
have recently been added to the Arabic language. She particularly emphasized the case of affixes that were borrowed into the Arabic language from many other world languages. Prof. Al-Jarf, an authority in the field of English language teaching and translation, also expressed her strong
that
consisted
examined
the
of
three
Arabic
language
sustainability, a pragmalinguistic analysis of newspapers and instruction options of form-focused instruction by Dr. Hala Dalbani, Dr. Wegdan Khalifah and Dr. Dina El-Dakhs respectively. Finally, three literature talks brought the Forum to its
feelings towards Arabic. Her long research
end. The talks were given by Dr. Hadeer
into languages has only left her in awe by
Abo El-Nagah, Dr. Orchida Ismail and Dr.
the beautiful complexities of Arabic and its
Arlene Campbell. The topics included the
attention to minute details.
reading of literary texts, the interchanging
Next in the program came the talk by
mothering.
King
Norchaya
Translation Connect interviewed some of
Yahya, who gave a talk titled «Are you
the student participants at the Forum. Ms.
an inspiring teacher?: Let,s find out!» In
Abeer Al Rashid, a translation student, said
Saud
University’s
Dr.
her talk, Dr. Yahya discussed the qualities of an inspiring teacher according to the perspectives of teachers and students. She summarized her exploratory study which compared the students’ and teachers’ perceptions on the characteristics of an inspiring teacher. Interviewing Dr. Yahya
Al-Jarf’s presentation on the morphological diversity of the Arabic language. Ms. Nouf Al Twaim, another translation student, was, surprisingly, more interested in language teaching topics at the Forum than any
after the Forum, she highlighted the special
others. She particularly liked that of Dr.
importance of such research gatherings
Hala Dalbani about the dangers facing
to enhance knowledge, share experience
the Arabic language. The Forum also
and create connections for future research
attracted students from the Preparatory
projects.
Year Program (PYP), who still have not yet
After the talks of the guest speakers, the
permanently chosen a major. Ms. Ibtihal
PSU faculty members shared some of
Ferwana, a PYP student, was quite excited
their active research work. Five talks were
to attend the Forum, claiming that her
delivered in the area of English language
expectations were met. She was inspired
teaching; (1) «The effects of classroom observation policy on the teaching and learning process in an ELT environment,» by Dr. Alia Mitchell, (2) «Dealing with EFL terminology,» by Dr. Beata Lewis, (3) «Investigating the test-taking strategy variation in Spanish FCE students in Scotland: Pedagogic and text validation
TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
that she was looking forward to Prof. Reima
TRANSLATION CONNECT
By: Dr. Dina El-Dakhs
papers
representation of monsters and community
12
News
Translation graduates
Forum
OUR
Director, Research and Translation Center
Translation graduates
back are
at PSU!!
to conduct research in the future, and learned how to present research at such major events. Overall, the Forum was a great success with over 250 participants. The Event allowed faculty members to share their research interests, explore opportunities
implications,» by Ms. Lee McCallum, (4)
for collaborative research and showcase
«A kaleidoscopic representation of visual
their recent research output. The audience
literacy in an EFL classroom of the Arab
also greatly benefitted from the Event, and
World,» by Ms. Maria Zaheer and (5)
noted their satisfaction with the Forum
«Factors relating to teaching motivation in
content and organization.
2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a
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TRANSLATION CONNECT
News
Translation graduates
Translation graduates
News
TRANSLATION CONNECT
worked as an administrator, but she currently works as a teaching assistant at the PSU English Department. She is happy to have made this move as she sees teaching as her passion and is planning to pursue her graduate studies. She has already got
spent her Co-Op
accepted in several universities, but is in
training at the
the process of applying for the School of
Chamber of
Oriental and African Studies, The University
Ms. Sara Hussein graduated from the PSU
Commerce
Translation Major in 2013. She spent her
and
Co-Op training at a bank, but she could
Industry at
not find herself there. She had always
the Women
wanted to become a teacher, not to spend
are highly supportive and encourage her to pursue her dreams. She feels grateful to PSU as she considers the translation
Sector.
program as top-notch. She found the
this
she turned down the bank offer to employ
she
her after the Co-Op training and looked
discovered the value
for a teaching position. She now teaches
courses helpful and the academic plan very
period,
environment. At the end of the interview, she
of
advised our readers who still want to study translation as an undergraduate program to seriously consider joining PSU for the excellent reputation of the university and the
everything
she
at Princess Noura University where she
learned at PSU. For
is combining her passion for teaching and
example, she made
translation. She teaches «introduction to
great use of the
translation» in addition to other language
legal translation
skills including listening and speaking. She
translation program.
The 2015 Alumni Reunion organized
Ms. Reem Al-Athel,
by the Student Affairs Office
Treats
her career at administration. This is why
During
purposeful. She also enjoyed the friendly
course
she
studied with
Owner of the food catering business, Mini-
PSU Translation Major in 2010. A year before graduation, she started to run her
for Women, Prince Sultan University,
Ms. Amal Al-Afraj,
always tries to connect with the PSU
Translation Trainee at IMU
alumni through a variety of means. One
Ms. Amal Al-Afraj graduated from the
important way is the annual alumni
serve a diversity of events, including baby
PSU Translation Major in January 2015.
reunion that it holds, inviting all alumni to
deliveries, weddings, banquets, etc. She
She works as a translation trainee at the
re-unite with their university. This year’s
already employs 6 staff members, but she
Educational Development Unit at Imam
knows that she is still learning and that she
alumni reunion was held on Tuesday,
Mohamed Bin Saud Islamic University.
has a long path to go. Worried that she might
February 17, 2015 at the College for
She described her job as «wonderful.»
lose her English language, she practices
Women Campus. The atmosphere was
She explained that she enjoys it the most
listening to online lectures from time to
amazing. The fresh air breezes kept
because it is all about translation, the field
time. She is also trying to write articles in
everyone fresh, and the soft lights and
she sees as her hobby. On the job, she has
English as writing is one of her hobbies.
relaxing music were extremely inspiring.
found out that the training she received at
She is now planning to further expand her
This was a time for the immigrant birds to
PSU was extremely helpful. It offered her
business, and also to study for her Master›s
join their real families in their cozy nest.
very useful training. Looking back at the
Degree. She kindly left us with some advice
It was a time full of tears, smiles, hugs,
college years, she remembers the hard
to our readers, «Work and have faith, and
chats, story-telling, and much more.
work, but she also enjoyed the rewarding
everything you dream of will become real.»
That was the time when Translation
experience.
Connect connected with some of the
own food catering business, Mini-Treats. The business is now up and running. They
PSU translation major alumni, trying to
Ms. Lamia Al-Madi,
English Language Teacher at Al-Tarbiyya Al-
see how they are doing that their wings
Teaching Assistant at PSU
Islamiya School
have grown strong enough and carried
Ms. Lamia Al-Madi graduated from the
Ms.
them away. Here are their stories.
PSU Translation Major in 2013. She briefly
the PSU Translation Major in 2014. She
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TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
Al-Dousary
she enjoys most about the job is that she always interacts with new faces and that the job has added much more confidence to her abilities. She is most grateful for the
Dr. Saadia Al-Amin, a PSU faculty member,
PSU education as it really prepared her for
as she was required to
translate the
the after-college life. She remembers how
Chamber’s booklet of rules and regulations.
welcoming most institutions were for her as
She also made use of the interpretation
a job applicant whenever they knew that
courses as she was required to be an
she is a PSU graduate.
The atmosphere was amazing. The fresh air breezes kept everyone fresh, and the soft lights and relaxing music were extremely inspiring
,,
interpreter for numerous delegations. After finishing her Co-Op months, she joined AlTarbiyya Al-Islamiya School as an English language teacher. Despite the career shift, she finds her job entertaining. She never saw herself as a teacher, but she is enjoying the job and can connect with her students. She still tries to maintain her translation skills through a number of online translation training courses recommended by Ms. Nadia Sabbah, a PSU faculty member. She longs for her college years at PSU and thinks that she learned a great deal. She particularly remembers the subtitling and
Ms. Nouf Al-Dousary,
Nouf
describes her job as «so much fun.» What
her students love her. She also feels that
Ms. Reem Al-Athel graduated from the The Student Affairs Office at the College
Teaching Assistant at PNU
,,
of London. She is happy that her parents
Ms. Sara Hussein,
graduated
dubbing classes.
from
2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a
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TRANSLATION CONNECT
News
RTC Student Translation Club
RTC Student Translation Club
News
TRANSLATION CONNECT
The RTC Student Translation Club:
n o i t a l s n a r T r o f e u n e V
Edu
t n e m n i a t
After one year of fruitful and engaging activities, the RTC Student Translation Club pursued its mission for the second year in a row. The Club offered diverse activities in
Event
Speakers
Translating conference materials
the second semester of the academic year
Translating the brochures of AlZheimer
Dr. Wegdan Khalifah
2014 - 2015. The activities for the semester
Disease Association
Ms. Mona Al-Yemni
are provided for you below classified on a monthly basis:
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TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
Media Translation: The case of crime stories
In February, the Club focused on translation
«panel
display»,
training on translating crime stories in
training as per the request of its members.
«abstract
«refereed
the news. The students were presented
Dr. Wegdan Khalifah and Ms. Mona Al-
publication», «logistics committee», etc.
with authentic, updated stories and were
February 11, 2015
Yemni, the Club Coordinators, offered three
The second session was based on a project
training sessions for students regarding
that the students were involved in, which
February 17, 2015
different genres for translation. The first
is the translation of the brochures of the
session focused on translating conference
Saudi Azheimer’s Disease Association. The
materials
significant
students participated in the translation of the
terminology to this context such as «plenary
brochures, and the session was a follow-up
«suspect»,
session»,
proceedings»,
to discuss difficulties and challenges. The
detention facilities», «confession», «juvenile
«registration procedure», «refund policy»,
third and last session in February included
treatment», etc.
Date
February 23, 2015
including
specially
«conference
discussion»,
«poster
submission»,
engaged in translating them. Important terms and expressions were highlighted including «deputy sheriff», «appear before a court», «public prosecutor», «defendant», «eye-witness»,
2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a
«separate
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TRANSLATION CONNECT
News
TRANSLATION CONNECT
RTC Student Translation Club
Event Field Tip to Prince Salman Science Oasis The India Day
Speakers Ms. Mona Al-Yemni Ms. Manal Al-Tahgafi Indian Faculty Members
Date March 9, 2015 March 15, 2015
March included only two events for the Club due to the Spring Break. The first event, a field trip to Prince Salman Science Oasis, was recommended by the Club Student President, Ms. Renad Al-Jadid. The trip lasted for three hours under the supervision of Ms. Mona Al-Yemni, RTC, and Ms. Manal Al-Thagafi, PSU English Department. The students enjoyed the talks by the Oasis guide who explained diverse scientific concepts including astronomy, the solar system, energy sciences, and natural phenomena. They were also intrigued by the Oasis Exhibition of sculptures, stuffed animals, interactive displays and visual illusions. The value of the trip was to enhance the students’ knowledge of science and updated world knowledge as an essential requirement for efficient translation. March also witnessed a major event organized by the Indian community at the PSU College for Women. The Indian faculty members, supported by PSU students, presented a spectacular display and show of Indian food, crafts, clothes, celebrities, traditions, attractions, souvenirs, and calligraphy. The Event lasted for two hours at the courtyard in the open air, followed by two hours in the Main Auditorium for the show.
Event
Speakers
Date
Inter-University Translation Competition
Translation Students
April 12, 2015
Palestine: History & Culture
Ms. Suhad Subhi & Students
April 19, 2015
Trados and Intelli Web Search Student Translation Research
Ms. Asma Al-Oataibi, Princess Nour University Translation Students
April 22, 2015 April 26, 2015
The Club has already set its plans for April, but until the time of writing this article the activities have not yet been put in action. Currently, the Club members are looking forward to the grand inter-university translation competition to be held in Prince Sultan University for the second consecutive year. The Competition includes three tracks; written translation, consecutive interpretation and exhibition of translation students’ work. They are also looking forward to the major event highlighting Palestinian history and culture, which is organized by Ms. Suhad Subhi, a faculty member at the General Sciences Department, with a group of students. Similar enthusiasm is noted for the machine translation training by Ms. Asma Al-Otaibi, Princess Noura University, and the presentations that will be delivered by PSU Translation students on their research work. The Club continues to fulfill its mission to enhance students’ translation skills in a supportive environment, broaden their perspectives and enlighten their vision. To this end, the Club welcomes students of all departments to join its activities and events. The underlying belief of the Club is that translation is a skill that can be gained through training provided that the trainee possesses the required linguistic skills in the source and target languages.
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TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a
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TRANSLATION CONNECT
News
RTC Student Translation Club
RTC Student Translation Club
The RTC Student Translation Club hosts
Malaysia
Truly Asia
W which
News
TRANSLATION CONNECT
e were very fortunate and
rituals.
‘Bahasa Melayu’ is the national
shopping, which explains the vast number
thankful to the Ministry of
language, but English is widely spoken.
of luxury malls, stores and street-side stalls
Tourism
based
The ethnic groups also converse in the
in the capital, Kuala Lumpur.
in Kuala Lumpur and its
various languages and dialects. Islam is
With all the above attractions, Malaysia
regional office in Jeddah
the official religion of the country, but other
is certainly a must-go holiday destination.
religions are also widely practiced.
Visitors would be indulged in the warm
provided
us
Malaysia
with
videos
and
posters for the presentation, brochures
hospitality
and
be
mesmerized
with
wonders.
We,
and souvenir items to be given away
Malaysian Attractions
Malaysia’s
to the audience on the day of the event.
Beaches
Malaysians are very proud of our country
“Malaysia, Truly Asia” cultural event that
Malaysia is home to some of the most
and certainly welcome everyone to visit
was presented on the 18th of December
beautiful
resorts
Malaysia. To make our Malaysian cultural
2014 at the small auditorium, PSU captured
in the world. For example, Penang is
event more interesting pop quizzes were
the attention of a full house audience
one of Malaysia’s most famous resort
comprising of students, administrative staff
thrown to the audience and small prizes
destinations. Its beaches characterised
and faculty members. The presentation,
were given away to those who gave the
by stretches of golden sand and glittering
which featured interesting videos and
right answers.
waters are a vacation spot for foreign
pictures, defined the essence of the
traditional Malay dance or ‘Joget Melayu’
and local visitors. Similarly, Langkawi, the
country’s
distinctiveness
largest of a multitude of islands in Malaysia,
with participation from the excited and
and attractiveness of Malaysia that make
comprises a jewelled setting of 99 islands,
it an exceptional tourist destination. The
and is a versatile holiday destination with
uniqueness,
and
relaxing
beach
following items include some of the topics
natural
Our event ended with a
sporting audience who were then served with some refreshments of Malaysian traditional food and cakes.
raised at the presentation: Why Choose Malaysia as a holiday
With all the above attractions, Malaysia is certainly a must-go holiday destination
destination? The «Malaysia, Truly Asia» ad campaign by the government showcased Malaysia’s beautiful landscape and its multicultural society in order to attract tourists. The fact that there is no other country than Malaysia that has Asia’s three major races, Malay, Chinese, Indian and various other ethnic
,, It was an honor for the Malaysian community at the Women Campus, Prince Sultan University to be given the opportunity by the RTC Student Translation Club to make a cultural presentation about Malaysia. After some discussions among the Malaysians we decided to promote Malaysia, not only in terms of its culture but as a fascinating holiday destination that offers something for everyone to enjoy. In conjunction with the campaign by the Malaysian Ministry of Tourism in promoting the country to the world, we used their tagline “Malaysia Truly Asia”
,, 20
world-class infrastructure and facilities.
By: Dr. Norjaya M. Yasin Associate Professor, PSU College of Business Administration
groups, so no other country is truly Asia
Nature
as Malaysia. It promotes Malaysia as the
Malaysia is full of natural attractions. Among
only place in Asia where all the colours,
the most famous are Taman Negara,
flavours, sounds and sights of Asia come
the first and the oldest official protected
together. Nowhere is there such exciting
forest area in the country, Besides, cave
diversity of ethnicity, cultures, festivals,
exploration is a new adventure sport in
traditions and customs, offering numerous
Malaysia but it attracts many visitors from
exciting experiences.
overseas. Borneo is home to the majestic forests, massive limestone formations and
Culture and Language
giant caves. Mulu Caves National Park is
Malaysia has a population of over 28
home to one of the longest networks of
million people comprising the Malays
caves in the world. Another key attraction
as the predominant group making up
is Clear Water Cave, the longest cave in
about 57% of the population followed
Southeast Asia.
by Chinese, Indians and other ethnic
TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
groups. The multi-racial composition of
Shopping in Malaysia
the population offers a diversity of culture,
Malaysia is a premier shopping destination
traditions, language, food and a variety of
in
Southeast
Asia.
Malaysians
love
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News
RTC Student Translation Club
RTC Student Translation Club
News
TRANSLATION CONNECT
Prince Sultan University in Riyadh is a place of variety of cultures and traditions bonded through a relationship of education and learning. Many academicians from around
The RTC Student Translation Club celebrates
By: Ms. Mesbah Saboohi
the world work in the university and bring
Lecturer, PSU Law
we appreciate but have little opportunity to
Department
understand. Rejoicing the cultural diversity
Pakistan Day with PSU’s Pakistani Community
with them their traditions and lifestyles which
of the PSU community, and highlighting the importance of cultural understanding to translation, the RTC Student Translation Club at the College for Women hosted the Pakistan Day on Sunday, November 30, 2014, which was organized by the PSU Pakistani Community. This spectacular event brought faculty members and students together at the College’s main auditorium of the University. Everyone was honoured with the attendance of the Acting Pakistan ambassador’s wife and Embassy’s first secretary’s wife as the chief guests. The event can be identified as a musical gala, a play, a comedy, and a visual art show all in one! The students divided the show as : • Introduction of Pakistan as a country( short film ) • Showing normal daily life - a girl in Pakistan (from birth till marriage) • Brief display of the role of women in
Pakistan’s
life
and
politics
(short
presentation)
general weddings of the two countries. The
to see some of our non-Pakistani students
whole auditorium came to life when the
wearing Pakistani dresses and looking so
traditional Pakistani wedding music played.
amazing! It was difficult to tell they were not Pakistanis! The dress show described Pakistan as an alter of diversities. The diversities linked to language, manners, and ethnicity but all coordinated through Islamic fraternity. The regional dresses showed
The audience added vigor in the event by continuously applauding the performers. The Pakistani teachers at PSU contributed in the whole event by dressing up in beautiful Pakistani dresses and being part of the presenters about history, women
economic conditions and ways of life. One
and culture of Pakistan. Ms Saima Rashid,
of the creative elements about the whole
Ms Misbah Saboohi, Ms Ghazal Imran, Ms
performance was the use of appropriate
Farah Obaid, Dr Najia Saqib, Dr. Umara
Pakistani music along with the visual effects
Noreen, and Ms Neelofar Obaid were all
of lights, lasers, used as part of the theatrics.
there to encourage students and take part
staged a brief play of a Pakistani girl’s
The visual effects were just great! The performance of the students included
in many activities too. The end of the event
upbringing by the parents, her education and her wedding. The play was filled
cultural dance and Henna celebration on
with interesting acts and role plays by the
Pakistani weddings. The audience saw
students which were explained by the
how a bride in Pakistan gets her whole
background host as to how a Pakistani girl is
family gathered for her to wish her on the
brought up with good education yet expected
most important day of her life. Being at the
to fulfill her role as a good wife and mother
Women’s College of PSU, interest in this
been a great occasion and it was a unique
later in life. The dress show of different parts
part of the show of all guests, students and
idea by the RTC Student Translation Club to
of Pakistan was very aptly displayed by the
teachers was worth seeing! Saudi students
use this theme as a method of information
students in colorful, shiny dresses ranging
were informed about some similarities in
and bringing people closer.
• Music of Pakistan on weddings & parties ( short display of marriage ceremony) • Pakistani cuisine The event highlighted mostly the lifestyle of females in Pakistan where the students
TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
Pakistani and Saudi cultures related to
and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa . It was pure joy
changes in the float of aesthetic traditions,
• Dress show of different regions of Pakistan
22
from Punjab, Sind, Baluchistan, Kashmir
was sharing Pakistani food. Biryani, BBQ chicken tikkas, gol gapas, channa chaat, and sweets were served to the guests. And it can be said “they were finger licking good!” The activity was a learning experience. It has
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News
World’s Eye
Symposium
The General Sciences Department at the College for Women Celebrates
For the fourth consecutive year, the General Sciences Department at
Part (2) included shows by PSU students at the University Main
the College for Women celebrated the World’s Eye Event on February
Auditorium. The students presented the famous dances, typical
24th, 2015. This Event is held to raise awareness of the cultures of
wedding celebrations and well-known traditions on stage. The
different countries around the world. This year, the Event placed focus on Jordan, the Sudan, France and Mexico. The Event included three parts; Part (1) was assigned for display corners of the countries. Each
diversity and creativity of the shows filled the audience with admiration. In addition, the students’ enthusiasm and joy brought smiles to everyone’s face.
corner included information and exhibits about the history, geography, traditions, customs, architecture and typical dresses of the country.
Part (3) brought everyone to open buffet representing the typical
The visitors were extremely impressed by the outstanding design and
cuisine of all countries. The audience were welcome to enjoy the taste
excellent organizations of all corners.
of traditional meals and desserts.
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TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
News
TRANSLATION CONNECT
King Saud University College of Language and Translation (COLT) Symposium
T
he King Saud University College of Languages and Translation (COLT) Symposium opened its doors to many bright minds of two inter-related fields: language teaching and translation. Held on the 28th of January, the symposium offered concurrent sessions on both fields by many influential experts based locally and internationally. The symposium sought to give researchers the opportunity to present their work to the public and portray their useful suggestions and recommendations to students and instructors. Translation Connect joined the Event and mainly participated in the Translation Track. Of the many informative research presentations given that day, around 10 sessions were dedicated to the field of translation as their main focus. One such presentation was titled “What Instructors and Students Should Know About Interpreting Problems” presented by Prof. Reima Al-Jarf, a professor of English language teaching and translation. Prof. Reima Al-Jarf is a well-known figure in this field, having presented in over 285 conferences in 60 different countries worldwide. Her research presentation given that day focused on an analysis of a corpus of English-Arabic and Arabic-English interpreting errors collected from interpreting tests and final examinations. The presentation started off by giving various examples of interpreting errors by students and then had portrayed the factors that had affected the students’ interpreting skills. When asked for the reason why she had chosen this particular topic for her research presentation, Prof. Al-Jarf provided various reasons; one of which was the fact that interpreting errors are not commonly investigated as translation errors due to the difficulty
in collecting them and analyzing them. She spoke of other reasons for choosing her topic including its relevance to the audience, seeing that most were from a translation background, and its practicality to draw both students and instructors’ attention to the types of interpreting errors. Another such presentation that had focused on translation was titled “Translation at the Cultural Crossroads: The Recreation of the ‘Orient’”. Dr. Hadeer Abo El Nagah, an Associate Professor of English Literature at Prince Sultan University, stated that her research was concerned with the recreation of “Orient” in the Western world. The Western media tends to portray Muslim men as terrorists and Muslim women as oppressed, which raises a question of ‘what is the role of translation of Arabic literature in creating this negative image?’. Dr. Abo El Nagah mentioned that her focus was mainly on Arabic literary works that are currently being translated into English, mentioning that “if we are not expressing the right picture about ourselves in Arabic literature, we should not be blaming the West for recreating an image about us that is not exactly the reality.” Lastly, Dr. Abo El Nagah emphasized the significance of writing and translating works that reflect the reality and the beauty of Islam. She highlighted three initiatives that do so, which are King Abdulaziz Center for International Dialogue, Kalimatona Center in UAE, and the works of novelist and translator Salma Al Khadra Al Jayyousi who had translated some exceptional examples of Arabic novels. Upon interviewing some of the attendees, it was quite clear that the symposium satisfied everyone present in all its aspects. Dr. Arlene Campbell, an Assistant Professor at Prince Sultan
University who was attending the symposium, was kind enough to take a few minutes to give us her opinion. She described how the symposium’s organization was very well handled by both the faculty and the student volunteers, and expressed her initial positive impression of the venue. However, she claimed that though she considers herself a bilingual of English and French, she did find some difficulty during the French sessions and would have preferred to have at the very least a concise summary written in English of the presentations, as an aid for those like her. Dr. Campbell also expressed her appreciation to the captivating speakers of the symposium, claiming that most had been engaging with their audiences as well as influential to them. Of all the presentation, the most that had stood out for her was Dr. Inaam Perriman’s “Cultural Dynamics in Translation”. Dr. Campbell’s research passions had numerously focused on teacher education, diversity and social justice issues, and hearing Dr. Perriman’s lecture on cultural dynamics has simply delighted her. However, she wished to have had the opportunity to ask Dr. Perriman a few questions on other sides to her presentation. Finally, Dr. Arlene Campbell stated that, “Overall, the presentations that I had managed to attend were very enriching and had By: really stimulated Ms. Heba Ahmed & my thinking... And I Ms. Nesreen Meknas was just very happy PSU English Department that the students Students were there as the key attendees and participants”.
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TRANSLATION CONNECT
News
Learning English
Learning English
News
TRANSLATION CONNECT
Learning English
and
Strengthening Communities By: Ms.Renee Tolson Lecturer, PSU English Department
Why are you learning English? “I want to improve my English skills for my job.”-AlJohara “Because I love English very much and I think it’s fun and exciting.”-Jihan “I want to improve my English to travel and learn different cultures in the world.”-Hana “I want to learn the English language because it’s important and interesting.” –AlBandary
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TRANSLATION CONNECT
News
TRANSLATION CONNECT
Learning English
“It has been a positive, stimulating experience,” said Dr. Arlene Campbell, Assistant Professor in the English Department at PSU. “The students are motivated, curious, and diligent learners.” Ms. Lee McCallum, Lecturer in the English Department at PSU, said her students have expressed a strong desire to improve their speaking skills and everyday English usage. “It has been rewarding to see shy students develop confidence and very good rapport in the classroom.” Dr. Arlene Campbell and Ms. Lee McCallum are both assigned as the elementary level English instructors for the February session of CLC classes. Furthermore, the CLC classes assist students in preparing for an everchanging society where knowing more than one language is becoming the norm. And the need for English classes is growing, as seen in the increase of enrollment numbers this year. This February, 53 students enrolled in the English courses—from beginner to elementary to These are just a few of the responses from a vibrant group of Riyadh residents who are currently learning English at Prince Sultan University’s Community Language Center.
intermediate levels—a significant increase from previous years. “We are reaching out to more members of the community,” said Ms.
The Community Language Center is a unit under the umbrella of
Nafeesah Sunghar, who was taken on board the CLC team to advise
CCI-Community Service and Continuing Education Center. It offers a
on strategies to attract new customers and make changes to the
6-week intensive English course for young learners, working adults,
English courses. “English is very popular in Saudi Arabia and so our
and anyone who would like to learn the English language in a unique and effective way. The intensive course covers reading, writing, listening, and speaking and is offered in 6 levels—from beginner to
courses are helping women to learn the language.” With the guidance of Ms. Sunghar, the CLC has in fact revamped
advanced. English classes are held three times per week, 2.5 hours
its English courses—replacing old course books by focusing on the
each day, focusing on the communicative approach to learning.
distinctive task-based approach, providing engaging texts, new video
Ms. Alaa Al Mashaan, Director of the CCI Center, said the CLC has
content, new placement tests, and a streamlined registration process.
achieved 17 sessions in different languages and stages, as well as 275 participants. “Our goal is to promote leadership, personal and professional growth,
Students who enroll in the CLC English courses also receive the opportunity to learn more about PSU through organized activities,
and become positive contributors to the community,” said Al Mashaan.
library orientations, and more.
“Essentially, we aim to reach every individual female in our community
There are almost 60 new registrants for the CLC’s March session.
who seeks to learn English as a second language.”
“Often, students tell me that they didn’t know about other opportunities
The Community Language Center transferred to CCI in June of 2012. It focuses on addressing the community need of learning a variety of languages—mainly English language courses. The CLC follows suit
available at PSU, so the CLC is also helping to raise awareness of the university’s broader activities,” said Ms. Sunghar, who is a Lecturer
with the CCI mission and vision: to enhance the aspect of education,
in the English Department at PSU and one of the intermediate level
grow university relations within the larger community, and promote and
English instructors for the CLC classes.
strengthen the internationalization of PSU’s College for Women.
While
The CLC English courses are taught by highly qualified English faculty members at the College for Women and offer other languages such as; Spanish, Japanese, Korean, and French. Therefore, CLC has
committed
to
enhancing
and
expanding
educational
opportunities, the Community Language Center is at the forefront of building a vibrant learning community—ultimately preparing leaders
built strong relationships with numerous embassies and international
for a changing market and strengthening Prince Sultan University’s
education institutions.
relationship with the larger community.
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Articles
The Translator as Cultural Mediator
The Translator as Cultural Mediator
A
Articles
TRANSLATION CONNECT
translator opens vast prospects that demolish closed dogmatic thinking and intellectual extremism in favor of the concepts of tolerance and pluralism. Despite the translator’s attempts of impartiality that he struggles to maintain as a respect for the Charter of the profession, his translated work is a birth of a new text that represents the convictions
and directions of the translator’s thoughts.
A translator’s dialogue takes place between his native language that is inextricably
The Translator as
Cultural Mediator
interwoven with his own culture and thoughts, and the other or target language that touches his feelings and triggers a permanent exchange of views within his thinking. The fruit of this dialogue is building new bridges between the different cultures of the world and eliminating intolerance and racism.
By: Dr. Géhane Essawy
Associate Professor French Language and Translation Department Languages and Translation College King Saud University
A translator bridges the gaps between different cultures creating a convergence between conflicting ideas and points of view. He becomes a messenger of peace that gives the concept of Otherness a new meaning which is different and far from stereotypical mental images. So contact with the other becomes neither losing one’s identity (or originality) in favor of the other’s, nor a fanatical or conflicting debate. The translator creates a middle ground between two extreme positions where he goes to meet the other through his language and culture and to convey them to his native language and indigenous culture. So knowledge – and knowledge only – opens a horizon of communication and interaction that knows no geographical boundaries,
,,
Every translator knows that translation is a solitary work and strive performed within the boundaries of words, language and ideologies; however, the nature of his work does not let him go unrewarded because it provides him an opportunity for a limitless openness.
,,
sectarian conflicts, or ethnic groups. The translator creates a new zone where several cultures and languages meet in a unique human and cognitive manifestation characterized by pluralism and partnership which proves that there is not a unilateral vision of the world and no one solely possesses the truth of knowledge.
Mastering two languages means possessing dual cultures and moving freely within dual linguistic and cultural worlds different from each other. The result is having two perspectives of the world, I and the other, especially if the dialectic occurs between two languages and two cultures, one belongs to the Arab Muslim world and the other belongs to the Western culture. The translated work will transform into an area rife with internal conflicts and struggles that fills the conscience of the translator with confusion between what can be translated and what cannot, between different thought and a self that seeks freedom and longs for knowledge.
Jose Saramago, the winner of the Nobel Prize in literature in 1998, says: “Writers create national literatures with their language, but world literature is written by translators.” Professor John Dolyl from Ottawa University, Canada, says: “The translators are the makers of civilizations.» History bears witness that the different human civilizations throughout the ages would not exist without the activity of translation movements. The questions that arise here: Should the translator be attentive to translating vocabulary or to conveying their meanings? Should he translate the number of words, or the genius gist of words? Should he translate the words or their connotations? Is translation a rendering of an already existing text from one language into another, or
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Articles
The Translator as Cultural Mediator
Religious Translation
and connotations included in the original or source text. The discourse of the translator interacts with that of the source text creating a text that represents its ideas. Thus, the translator creates a linguistic, cultural, and cognitive discourse representing his
subjective
view
of
the
world. This
subjectivity is manifested in his selection of style, structures, vocabulary, semantics and so forth to move from one language to another and from one culture to another. In this process, the
Articles
TRANSLATION CONNECT
When the Subject is «my» Religion:
Religious Translation
the Cross Cultural Dialogue
translator does not keep his culture confined to its own particularity and seclusion separated from other cultures, but he always keeps it open to interaction with other cultures of the world in a perpetual human quest for knowledge.
In the Arab world, contact with the other is still very limited. The translator faces challenges with
The translator does not keep his culture confined to its own
some texts which tend to express superiority
particularity and seclusion separated from other cultures,
or subjugation while some other texts prefer
but he always keeps it open to interaction with other cultures
pretending to be knowledgeable. As a matter
of the world in a perpetual human quest for knowledge
of fact, fearing for our national identities and
By: Dr .Hadeer Abo El-Nagah Associate Professor, English Department,PSU
vainly adhering to ancient historic renaissance is it a transferring of experience, culture and
meanings (taboos) hidden behind the words?
which relied, for much of its achievements, on
reference points? Is the translated work just a
The role of the translator relies on the dialectic
translators push us outside the course of time
reading of the source text, or is it a birth of a new
and accultural interaction between cultures.
and keep us far off reality.
text that esthetically tries to convey the words
He expresses the other’s ideas in his own
and the ideas of another text written in another
personal manner creating a new relationship
language?
with the translated text because translation is
The syntactic and semantic structure of
not only a reproduction of meaning but also a
any language comprises several semantic
style in performance. If a translator restricts his
hypotheses, so which one should the translator
translation to the limits of transforming only the
choose? What would make him prefer one
direct denotations of the text, he will ignore the
semantic meaning over another? How is his
cognitive additions of the linguistic semantics
personal and distinctive vision of the original
significant to produce the meaning.
text formed? Should he translate subsequent
Since translation is a means of communication,
linguistic structures of one language into
the translated text represents the message that
another, or should he reveal hypothetical
the translator has assimilated and interpreted
connotations and prohibited or restricted
but does not necessarily represent all meanings
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Fearful thinking brings forth extinction. So, the question rises «do we have the valor, the ability, and the passion to participate in this paramount and perpetual human pursuit of knowledge and civilization?»
Translated by: Mr. Ashraf Thaher Research & Translation Center, PSU
2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a
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Articles
TRANSLATION CONNECT
I
Religious Translation
of
me realize two things that affected my career
awareness here can be expressed in terms
Civilization 2009, ISESCO General
from that moment: 1-My enthusiasm is my
of the translator’s intentions, which is his
Director,
Altwaigri
own and I should not expect others to be
understanding to the role he plays and the
emphasized the importance of the dialogue
equally interested in what I am saying. 2- I
job he is entrusted to carry. In the case
between religions and civilizations as a main
have to be more objective.
of religious translation he is a carrier of
channel of understanding. Though according
I wish if they are as easily done as said, those
message that cannot be transmitted without
to Altwaigri, there is no solid definition to
who practice religious translation may agree
him. According to the following authentic
«dialogue» in international law and politics, it
with me on the difficulty of how to separate
prophetic Hadith narrated by Bukhari the
remains an indispensible tool of intercultural
between what you believe in and what you
reward of those who carry the message
communication
tolerance.
write or say as a translator, yet it is a skill that
is great and the translator should see his/
The escalating tension between Islam and
needs to be practiced, though it is a necessity
herself as a facilitator of knowledge and
the West especially after September 11
in all types of translation, objectivity is of
transmitter of the message:
determines a closer look at the intercultural
high importance and sensitivity to religious
The Prophet said, «The example of guidance
and inter-religious dialogues and investigate
translators. The skill of objectivity like other
and knowledge with which Allah has sent
possibilities of enhancement and mutual
skills needed for quality translation, it needs
me is like abundant rain falling on the earth,
understanding on the human and social
both knowledge and practice. Because of the
some of which was fertile soil that absorbed
levels. One of the miracles of Allah’s creation
space limitation for this current article I will
rain water and brought forth vegetation and
is that we speak different languages and thus
discuss only three elements that may help
grass in abundance. (And) another portion
translation is really needed to communicate
translators to be objective: Awareness of the
of it was hard and held the rain water and
and understand each other the Quran states
cultural role, knowledge and detachment.
Allah benefited the people with it and they
n
his
Dialogue
Dr.
and
Alliance
Abdul-Aziz
and religious
utilized it for drinking, making their animals
in Surah Al Rum (30:22):
drink from it and for irrigation of the land for cultivation. (And) a portion of it was barren which could neither hold the water nor bring forth vegetation (then that land gave
And of His signs is the creation of the heavens and the earth and the diversity of your languages and your colors. Indeed in that are signs for those of knowledge
Articles
Religious Translation
TRANSLATION CONNECT
Besides the common duties all translators share like honesty, accuracy and deep understanding of texts and cultures, additional duties are on the shoulder of the religious translator such as the meaning of terminology in the source language and the cultural background of the text itself knowledge of the religious content being translated as the accuracy level here is high. Religious translation is not only a message but also a responsibility. Differences in Fiqh terminology should be dealt with in high level of caution like the differences between Wajib, mandoub, makrouh and so on, all these are examples of the terminology that the translator should be aware of and aware of their fine differences. In that stand translators are advised to: 1- Translate into the source language first ( understand the text in your own language) 2- Read previously translated works 3- Read some source material in the same subject and area you are translating. 4- Use glossaries and create your own glossary, update it regularly. 5- Consult specialized dictionaries and be
not affect the message by choosing certain
References:
updated of terminology usage
tone, word choice or emotion that may direct
Baker, M. (2006). Translation and Conflict:
6- Consult some experts if you face a problem
the reader in certain direction that was not
a Narrative Account. New York: Routledge.
7- Find solutions when the exact equivalent
intended by the original.
Coronin, M. ( 2003). Translation and
cannot be found like; simplifying and
In conclusion we may say that as much as
Globalization, New York: Routledge.
example is that of a person who does not
explaining the meaning, use transliteration
religious translation is important and needed
no benefits). The first is the example of the person who comprehends Allah’s religion and gets benefit (from the knowledge) which Allah has revealed through me (the Prophets) and learns and then teaches others. The last
One of the main issues a translator may face
Awareness & Intention:
care for it and does not take Allah’s guidance
or italics and punctuation to indicate the
it has to be practiced with additional care as
is the issue of «objectivity» which became
If translation can be defined as transmitting
revealed through me (He is like that barren
difference of content.
it is both ethical and scientific responsibility.
extremely crucial in addition to accuracy
the message of the original text into the target
land.)» Volume 1, Book 3, Number 79
and readability particularly in the case of
language, the content of the message here
religious translation. I came to realize the
is of great importance to the process itself.
difficulty to remain objective early in my
Besides the common duties all translators
Hadith collection, http://www.hadithcollection. com/sahihbukhari/36-sahih-bukhari-book03-knowledge/101-sahih-bukhari-volume001-book-003-hadith-number-056.html
Detachment:
share like honesty, accuracy and deep
Knowledge:
Each translation project should be dealt with
understanding
The more valuable the message, the more
While knowledge of both the source and
in complete objectivity as a research project.
additional duties are on the shoulder of the
career as a translator with special interest
concerned the translator, the more crucial
target languages is a must in all translations,
While the translator will exert his best to
religious translator such as the meaning
in religion.
A non-Muslim friend of mine
his/her role becomes. Being aware of the role
it is particularly important in the case of
deliver the message, he/she should be fully
of terminology in the source language and
stopped me in a discussion by saying «You
of translation as lubricant between nations
religious translation as it requires more than
aware that he is not part of the discussion.
the cultural background of the text itself.
being so enthusiastic about it will not change
and civilizations is only the starting point,
the surface knowledge of both. It is strongly
His delivery should be honest to the best
Moreover, the religious translator needs to
Web 23 Dec. 2014
my position in that matter». As a young
then comes the extensive reading in both
advisable to the religious translator to have
of his knowledge. He is required to correct
deal with texts as objectively as possible and
Quran Translation: http://quran.com/30
translator who strongly believed in the role of
languages and cultures. A good translator
a strong knowledge of not only the linguistic
whatever linguistic or historic mistakes may
not to get carried away with enthusiasm and
: أسس في ترجمة المحتوى اإلسالمي.وليد العمري
translation in presenting Islam and creating a
is a good reader and an ambassador of
meaning of the text (in that case it is mostly
appear in the original and indicate such
get involved in the texts with his emotions
2011 :مكتبة الملك فهد الوطنية
cross cultural dialogue, her comment made
his own culture as well. In other words,
Arabic). He/ she is also advised to have deep
changes but at the same time he should
or beliefs.
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TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
of
texts
and
cultures,
House, J. (2009). Translation. Oxford: Oxford University Press King
Abdullah
Center
for
Islamic
Contemporary Studies and Dialogue of Civilizations. Al-Imam Islamic University.
الترجمة الدينية يجب ان تكون حساسة ورايه موضوعي
2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a
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TRANSLATION CONNECT
Translation and Pragmatics
Articles
TRANSLATION CONNECT
Translation and Pragmatics T
he translator is requested to use his/her knowledge of cross-cultural pragmatics to convey the message appropriately in the translated version without causing
any distortion to the original text. Theories of
This
article
illustrates
this
translation state the fact that speech acts and other
intimate relationship between
pragmatic elements differ cross-culturally and it is the
translation and pragmatics; in a sense, the translator must be
,,
familiar with pragmatic tools to translate the message of the original text appropriately.
,,
By: Dr. Wegdan Khalifah
translator’s job to work towards achieving a crosscultural pragmatic success.
Assistant Professor, PSU English Department
What is pragmatics? Yule (1996:4) defines pragmatics as “the study of the relationship between linguistic forms and the users of these forms”.
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Articles
Translation and Pragmatics
Translation and Pragmatics
,,
Theories of translation state the fact that speech acts and other pragmatic elements differ cross-culturally and it is the translator’s job to work towards achieving a cross-cultural pragmatic success.
The students came up with the following
Works Cited
flouted for different justified reasons.
of pragmatic or variant element of translation
translations:
Hatim, B. and Mason, I. (1991): Discourse and
Closely related to Pragmatics is speech acts.
which is difficult and may have to be explained.
1. a moment of waiting full of warmth under the
the translator, London: Longman.
To the extent that speakers make meaningful
Differences between English and Arabic at
heavy cover
Newmark, P. (1981): Approaches to Translation,
sentences and have intentions and desire
the pragmatic level can lead to different errors
2. a waiting period mixed with warmth.
responses, to that extent the speech acts
when translating. Translation students and
3. a period of waiting intoxicated/ drunk in the
are an integral part of translation.
translators in general make such pragmatic
warmth under the heavy cover
A Speech Act is an act that is performed by
errors due to several reasons, such as lack
4. a long period of waiting under the heavy
a speaker when producing an utterance in
of pragmatic knowledge and unawareness of
cover
order to communicate with hearers. It is the
the importance of pragmatics in the translation
Another example is: ‘Say Lord strike you dead
minimum functional unit in communication
task.
if you don’t’.
such as giving commands, requesting,
There are differences among languages in
This is an expression which is used by British
statements. Thus, when a translator comes to translate a given utterance s/he should take into
knowledge
in
order
her message into the target
The main reason behind this is that students did
Presupposition translation problems may
of the source text.
It is important in pragmatics to talk
be due to the fact that the target text (TT)
Searle (1980) (in Hatim and Mason, 1992)
about implied
readership may not possess the same
produced a taxonomy of illocutionary acts.
background
source
These acts are representatives, expressives,
in communication and various types of
text (ST) readership, which is essential to
verdictives, directives, commissives and
actions.
decipher presupposed implicature in the ST.
There are several pragmatic aspects which
a
Science
Yule, G. (1996): Pragmatics, Oxford: Oxford University Press
and
without
causing any offence
,,
not understand what is meant by this utterance,
A good knowledge of
and that they could not make a pragmatic link
pragmatics can enrich
between the utterance and the context in which
the study and practice
the utterance occurred. They gave nonsense translations purely word-for-word translations
of translation.
that cannot be acceptable translations, such as
Drawing from his/
يقول لك سيدى أنك ستموت إن لم تفعل ذلك
her knowledge
تذكر أن الموت بإنتظارك إن لم تنفذ ما أمرتك به
of pragmatics,
the way they operate. A TL may work on a
الرب يقتلك ان لم تفعل
different maxim to imply the same level of
ستموت إن لم تفعل
the translator
declaratives. Grice (in Hatim and Mason,
Implicature is a major participant in the
1992) tries to expand the scope of pragmatics
intentionality that the SL implies using another
any translator should be aware of when
process of interpretation of text intentionality.
as he speaks of “Cooperative Principles”
maxim. Due to students’ unawareness of the
translating. Those aspects are speech
It is defined as what the speaker means or
which are maxims that language users
acts, implicatures, presuppositions, the
implies rather than what s/he literally says.
cooperative principle or Gricean four maxims (the maxim of quality, quantity, relation and manner maxim), which enable speakers
and intended
meaning,
assumptions, purposes and goals of people
knowledge
of
the
could translate
Conclusion
appropriately the non-
pragmatic aspect of the original text, weakness
In our view, virtually every translation has with
linguistic dimensions
adhere to conventionally. Grice’s maxims are
in pragmatic knowledge, and incompetency to
it a pragmatic element at one level or the other.
or intended message
Grice presented the notion of ‹cooperative
meant to ensure effective communication.
relate the text to its context when translating,
Speech acts, implicature, presupposition and
Any deviation from these maxims may
we may encounter some mistranslations like in
politeness principle are common features to
of the source text
principle›
cooperation between the producer and
produce implicature, an intended meaning.
the following examples:
the two. A good knowledge of pragmatics can
and hearers in conversation to create and
the receiver to generate mutual cultural
The translator may have to make explicit
فترة انتظار ثملة بالدفء تحت الغطاء الثقيل
enrich the study and practice of translation.
decipher implicatures in utterances.
awareness in order to decipher implications.
what is linguistically implicit in the original
The model answer of this utterance or the
Drawing from his/her knowledge of pragmatics,
Presupposition is the assumptions made
There are four rules or ‹maxims› proposed
text by lengthening the message through
professional English translation for this Arabic
the translator could translate appropriately the
by the text producer about the linguistic
by Grice: The quantity maxim, the quality
deletions, additions or substitutions. At
utterance is
non-linguistic dimensions or intended message
and extra linguistic knowledge of the text
maxim, the relevance maxim and the
times the adjustments could go as far as
“a moment of expectation full of warmth
of the source text.
receiver which can help in decoding the text
maxim of manner. However, in the real act
adaptation. The notion of communication
beneath the heavy cover”.
TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
assumes
a
level
of
,,
38
which
of
students did not succeed in finding the most
cultural pragmatic knowledge in order to
pragmatics to discover the “real” meaning.
Towards
considered a culturally loaded expression,
appropriate Arabic equivalent for this utterance.
should maintain the same pragmatic effect
convey
to his/
encoded message.
E.(1961):
Translating, Leiden E.J. Brill.
In translating this utterance, which can be
appropriately
any offence. In other words, the target text
Nida,
killed.
A translator should use his/her cross-
language
,,
Oxford: Pergamon Press.
scare him/her is to threaten him/her by being
her cross-cultural pragmatic
the target language and without causing
in
and wants to threaten him/ her, the best way to
of the utterances, but s/he should consider
appropriately convey his/her message into
important
someone asks somebody to do something
A translator should use his/
utterances.
is
people to threaten someone, i.e., when
account not only the grammar and meaning
the actions the speaker implied in her/his
meaning
TRANSLATION CONNECT
load and channel capacity brings us to the idea
promising, asking questions, and making
Contextual
Articles
of translating, maxims are, in many cases,
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TRANSLATION CONNECT
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TRANSLATION CONNECT
Articles
Translators Lie?!
Translators Lie?!
Articles
TRANSLATION CONNECT
and loved book while being rendered into a
Translators L i e ? !
valuable and loved language as well. Before twenty four hours had passed, I received a phone call from my friend asking me for my opinion about the book. I could
Careful scientific revision is
not keep calm, and I said, “your gift was a
necessary for all
disaster, my dear!“ and I explained to him the
translated books;
translation mistakes that made the book lose
translations should
its usefulness. We had a long conversation while I was
not be accepted if
trying to get him to reveal his secret until he
these symptoms
made his catastrophic confession. He said,
appear: Google
“I liked the book very much, and I decided
symptoms!
to translate it, but I spent months with only a few pages translated. Then, I scanned the book and converted the image into a text using special software. After that, I inserted the text into Google Translate. When I had the
By: Dr. Hassan Taher
Google-translated text, I printed it and gave it
Lecturer, PSU College of Computer and Information Sciences
to an Arabic language instructor to proofread
should excel at three things: 1. The source language (English, for example) 2. The target language (Arabic, for example) 3. The scientific topic the book is discussing
and the book was issued. All of this did not
Should the translator not be fully equipped
take more than one month.”
with the above-mentioned skills, the result will
My friend added, to justify the failure of his
be similar to what happened to my friend. We
translation, that the Arabic instructor did not
can also add a fourth point which is:
do his job properly. I told him that it was not
4. A previous successful experience in
the Arabic language instructor’s fault because
translation or writing
he was not specialized in the field, and he did
Careful scientific revision is necessary for all
not understand any of the Google translation.
translated books; translations should not be
When I asked him about the book sales, he
accepted if these symptoms appear: Google
told me that it almost did not sell any copy. I
symptoms!
Bases.”I was surprised, for this book is one of the
story, I would like to apologize for this alarming
best in that field since I know it really well, and
title. Although, the shock was meant due to the
I have taught it. My friend promised to send me
importance of this article; I suppose.
a copy of the book. He kept his promise, and I
Many years have passed since I last met this
received my copy the following day. I could not
friend of mine. I met him during a common friend’s
wait, and I started reading the book immediately
event. We started talking, and I knew that he had
expecting to recognize its content easily because
an early retirement and started a career in writing
of my previous experience with the original book.
and translation!!
The disaster struck when I could not understand
As far as I know, my friend is not well versed
a single word from this translated book. Its
I would like to
in English. As for his Arabic, I dare to say that
language was incomprehensible, the information
apologize for this
he cannot write a single good sentence, not to
was wrong, and the equations were all incorrect.
mention his modest educational level. What
In addition, what was supposed to be from left
alarming title.
writing and translation are we talking about then?
to right, was from right to left. Furthermore, the
At the beginning, I kept all of these thoughts to
computer programs were also translated into
myself. Then, I asked him about the outcome
Arabic! The coding within the programs was far
of two years of writing and translation. He said
from its real meaning. It was a bitter experience
that he had translated a specific book on “Data
to see such distortion happen to a valuable
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TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
The moral of the story is that translators
it. This is how the translation was completed,
At the beginning, and before I narrate this
40
thanked Allah for that!
Although, the shock was meant due to the importance of this article; I
,,
Translated by: Ms. Rawan Shaaban Lecturer, PSU English Department
suppose
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TRANSLATION CONNECT
Articles
Translators and Social Networks
Is Arabic a dying language?
Is Arabic
Translators and Social Networks O
L
Articles
TRANSLATION CONNECT
a dying language
anguages are not just grammar and
society then it might be facing a grim future.
vocabulary, they are the vessels of
The answer to many of these concerns
human knowledge and the storage
lies mainly in developing the curricula and
of
systems.
methodologies of teaching Arabic. Instilling
By: Dr. Hala Dalbani
Languages formulate our own being and
the love of Arabic by simplifying its grammar
shape the way we think, make judgments,
and making it more appealing by injecting it
PSU English Department
express our innermost feelings; our joy,
in small doses embedded within authentic
our sorrow, our anger etc... and a loss of a
texts relevant to learner’s interests can bring
language is tragic because it always entails
major changes. There are so many lessons
revealed that every minute a one-hour video
the erosion of human knowledge. (UNESCO)
to be learnt from the vast developments in
is uploaded on YouTube by youth in North
There are 8600 languages in the world
the methodologies of teaching English and
today but 94% of the world population speak
the impact that that had had on the spread of
Africa and the Middle East... The highest
only 1% of those languages. Arabic, with
English worldwide.
cultures
and
belief
Associate Professor,
percentage in the world. There is a message here: educators need to invest in social
300 million speakers worldwide, ranks 4th
A longitudinal study on the learning of
amongst this 1%. It also ranks 7th amongst
Arabic by first grade students revealed that
the languages used on the Web and 10th
the most important factor that enhanced the
amongst the fast spreading languages. But
learning of the language was not the type of
A success story of how a nation’s language
in spite of all that we still hear that Arabic is a
texts nor their variety but how qualified the
survived in the shadow of globalization is
threatened language. In some Arab counties
Arabic teacher was.
How can someone
the Japanese language which developed
like Qatar and UAE, Arabic is becoming
who is unqualified and lacks the skills and
with the industrial development of Japan
the third language after English and Hindi.
knowledge of how to best teach the most
Although many Arabs believe that Arabic is
important course at school be teaching the
by borrowing technical terms from other
protected in the Holy Quran and will never
medium in which most of the other courses
die, some still have reason for concern.
are taught? How can such a teacher instil
media and e-learning technologies in their teaching of Arabic.
ne of the major changes in our modern age
Lots of questions need detailed answers. For
is the appearance of social networks that
the first question, perhaps the common concept
aim at helping people communicate around
about translation is that it is an easy job and
the world and socialize with friends and
only requires knowing two different languages.
By: Mr.Mazen Alharbi
relatives. Recently, the situation has changed,
Of course, it is needless to say that translation
English Teacher /
social networks have become an effective
needs more than this. It is not only being
Translator
way for business startups and promotions to
bilingual that makes a good translator, but also
advertise. Those who have potential social
a lot of features and skills need to be developed
networking skills create their own accounts to
to achieve a good level of translating.
issue, and as a solution, the translation center
show their skills and offer their services.
Secondly, the appearance of many accounts
of Twitter occasionally posts several topics and
The cause for alarm is the fact that Arabic
in his learners the critical eye, higher level
Even translators, who are our main concern
that claim to be professional translators may
templates that need to be translated in different
nowadays is marginalized by its own
skills, research skills, cooperative learning
here, are among those people mentioned
contribute in spreading the previous thought
languages to create a healthy environment for
speakers. It is marginalized in education,
etc... if he himself is incompetent? Preparing
from using English either. English remained
in administration and in the media.
The
well qualified Arabic teachers who are set to
the second language and the Japanese
infiltration of local dialects into the domains
teach in such an ever-changing society that is
language developed and flourished with
of the standard (media, education, children’s
facing serious challenges is crucial.
the development of Japan. The Japanese feel very strongly for their language and
above.
Some of them are fresh graduates
we talked about. The clients may tend to
of English or other languages programs from
undervalue translator pay because they have
local universities. They, as well, create their
a lot of alternatives no matter how good they
own pages to offer their translation services.
are, as long as they do not cost too much. This
to his name and become a certified translator
TV programs and cartoons etc...), the
The amount of reading is also a measure
It is obviously a good thing to do but several
is without a doubt an effect of the translation
according to Twitter. As hopeless as it may
out-dated Arabic language curricula and
of a nation’s development. Information
questions need to be asked about this issue.
industry.
seem, this is considered a good start especially
pedagogies, the use of English as a medium
societies are built on the culture of reading.
Is being a translator that easy?
Lastly, translators’ competence, and this may
of instruction for Arabs at a very early school
Extracurricular reading has been linked
Does the appearance of so many translators
be one of the most controversial topics among
age, and job opportunities offered mainly to
to higher academic achievement.; hence
with a variety of skill levels undermine the
translators, especially in Saudi Arabia which still
profession itself?
suffers from a lack of academic institutions to
How would clients know if a translator is qualified?
42
TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
competent translators. Those who contribute the most will earn the translator’s badge next
in social media where a lot of «business» is taking place. Regardless to say, this cannot
languages... but that didn’t stop the Japanese from holding on to their mother tongue and ensuring that it prevailed as the language of the nation. That did not stop the Japanese
the masses speak nothing but Japanese. Likewise, a language that is spoken by 300 million and the language of 1.06 billion Muslim and the 10th most learnt language in
those proficient in English are some of the
the need to develop Arab learners’ reading
compensate for every translator’s dream in
major factors affecting the status of standard
skills. Digital natives are no more the passive
the USA today is certainly a language that
train, qualify and certify translators as opposed
Saudi Arabia which is an actual organization for
Arabic today.
Some linguists believe that
recipients of television programs and news.
is here to stay but not without implementing
to most developed countries. In regard to this
establishing translators’ rights and needs.
unless Arabic survives in all domains of
They have become producers too. A study
the right policies that will ensure its survival.
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Welcome to the Translation Program!
Welcome to the Translation Program!
Welcome to the Translation Program!
to English audios and books to the best of
of all. It is an infinite process where you can
your ability as these presumably entail better
never be too old to learn.
information between nations across the
understating of the grammar and vocabulary
Without any doubt, you will never regret
world. In addition, it helps in globalizing the
used in different languages. By doing so, it
majoring in translation if your are indeed
world with all these best-selling books being
will eventually become second nature to you.
passionate about it. I myself decided after
translated into different languages. Our
Furthermore, you must take your translation
knowledge of other countries will be notably
assignments quite seriously and never
my graduation to return back to my beloved
increased with the usage of translation. That
present a work or submit an assignment
is why having translators is crucial to our
that you have carelessly put together. When
existence.
dealing with different texts, your are expected
If you choose to major in Translation, allow
to do a great amount of research besides
me to congratulate you for choosing a
your foremost job of translating them.
major of such high-demand; almost every
Moreover, reading various books that discuss
company, bank, academic institution, and
translation methods and theories written by
firm is constantly in need of translators. It is a
well-known and accomplished theorists is
major where one can exploit their full potential
certainly a move worth giving a try. All in
purposefully and productively. If you care
all, your dedication and perseverance will
about how informative and literate you wish
determine how competent you will be after
to be in different fields then it is the best major
graduation.
for you, bar none. However, nothing comes
It is highly important that you, while still a
easily. As a translator or an interpreter «you
student, keep in mind how considerably
have your work cut out for you»; you need to
substantial this field is in order to strive and
keep yourself updated regularly with the latest
concentrate on whatever you feel you need to
terminology used in different disciplines. This
improve before you enter the labour market.
means that you need to develop native-like
A great translator always attempts to upgrade
proficiency in writing and speaking in two or
his/her language and knowledge, so it goes
more languages. Undoubtedly, you need to
without saying that the more well-read a
information and acquiring skills in various
work around whatever obstacle that might
translator is, the better his/her performance
fields. Try to make the most of your academic
come your way and tackle all the problems
will be. Remember that learning should be
courses and those purposive extracurricular
that you might face.
an end in itself where you ought to accustom
events and activities held on campus.
During your academic study, you need to get
yourself to enjoying the fact that you are open
At last, I say to all of you… welcome to the
yourself into the habit of reading and listening
to so many disciplines and take advantage
translation program!
Teaching Assistant, PSU English Department
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TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
Our knowledge of other countries will be notably increased with the usage of translation. That is why having translators is crucial to our existence.
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TRANSLATION CONNECT
essential role in facilitating the trading of
By: Ms. Lamia Al Madi
Close your eyes and imagine the people of the world all living in one single enclosed space. They will certainly have lots to offer to each other. They may want to communicate important information or share some revolutionary inventions or studies in major fields of science. They may want to inform others of their own culture, beliefs, and ideologies. They may want to disseminate information valuable to humanity. That will surely be exciting to all, but would you still maintain that same level of excitement if you knew that they cannot speak one another’s language? This is how the world would look like without having translators in our lives. We would be all isolated with language barriers standing amongst us and no one would be able to communicate with anyone else.
Articles
Having said that; translation plays an
A great translator always attempts to upgrade his/her language and knowledge, so it goes without saying that the more well-read a translator is, the better his/her performance will be
,,
Articles
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TRANSLATION CONNECT
department as a Teaching Assistant in the Translation Program, and I have my heart set on continuing in the same field as it has become my field of interest. The best part about this field is its unpredictability. One day you are translating a medical text and the next day you find yourself translating a legal text. As a result of that, you will start to gradually expand your repertoire of vocabulary and expressions used in different languages. It is best to create a glossary that records all the new words that you have recently learned so you can go through them in your free time. To my fellow translation students at Prince Sultan University, I can tell you there is definitely a great journey awaiting you. Fortunately, such journey will be inevitably accompanied by fun while learning new
The best part about this field is its unpredictability. One day you are translating a medical text and the next day you find yourself translating a legal text.
2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a
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Articles
TRANSLATION CONNECT
To Err Is Human… And Language Can Be The Victim
By: Ms. Jawaher Alsaud PSU, English Department Student
To Err Is Human … And Language Can Be The Victim
By: Ms. Al-Bandary Khaled Al-Johar PSU English Department Student
Translation and Culture
The translation of a text requires the focus on
evident link is seen between language learning
where it never snows!
many different aspects other than simply just
and culture learning.
Translators should find solutions so as not
the words themselves. Of the most important
There are many evident examples that
to face problems between translation and
of those aspects is the cultural knowledge of
relate culture and translation through our
culture. One solution is to learn about different
the target language. This type of translation
everyday lives. One such example is the
cultural aspects or concepts that a translator
is commonly known as «cultural translation».
miscommunication that occurs in regards to
might come across while translating. This may
Cultural translation is the translation of a
the different gestures from different cultures.
include asking people from different cultures
language belonging to a different culture all
The gesture that many Americans use to signal
while paying attention to the customs and the
«Ok» or «good work» is the same gesture
values of that particular culture. Therefore,
done to signal «I am warning you!» in Arabic.
translators should keep in mind that in order
A second example from English and Arabic
has an idiom, or a phrase, equivalent to that
to translate a culturally-related text, their
translations is the difference in the symbolic
themselves. Pragmatic transference has to be
of another, so one should either practice the
linguistic knowledge alone would not suffice.
meaning of the word “owl”. While we can all
lack pragmatic value. Why? And how did these
overcome. Surely, one Arabic speaker would
language amongst its natives or search for
There are many examples that reveal these
recognize what kind of bird it is, it does not
errors occur? As an Arabic native speaker,
not want to confuse their company of native
the equating expression. Or, avoid using
types of miscommunication and how their
symbolize the same in both cultures. In English,
when initially reading them, I would be stumped,
speakers by saying something like “Wipe
the intended idiom all together to not spur
translation affects the meaning involved.
the owl symbolizes wisdom; on the contrary, in
“From my two eyes, teacher!” “You made
since most bear Arabian cultural references.
the second language’s pragmatic value into
my face white!” “You didn’t short.” «Do any
A perfect illustration would be the phrase,
account. For instance, blurting the translated
of these sentences make sense? Let us try
“When the cow makes Haj (Pilgrimage) on its
common Arabic phrase, “Come to me when
breaking them down and translating them into
horns,” which is a directly translated idiom from
you are empty: ”تعاليلي و انتي فاضيهwould not
Arabic and see if they will begin to.
Arabic to English, expressing impossibility.
make sense in English and could convey a
From my two eyes, teacher: من عيوني الثنتين أستاذه
This error was committed by a preparatory
different meaning than the intended: “Come
(With Pleasure.)
year Saudi student, participating in a study
over when you are free.” Such hindrances can
You made my face white: ( بيضتي وجهيYou’ve
on “level of English proficiency”. Thus,
also face any translator, sufficient in the basics
made me proud.)
when Arabic speakers start learning a new
of the L2 language, but not acquainted with
You didn’t short: ( ما قصرتYou’ve done more
language, their instincts prompt them to use
its expressions. Thus, luckily, each language
than enough/ You did not fall short.)
their native idioms to characteristically express
However, strung into sentences, they seem to
what is ok in their culture and what is not. Moreover, being familiar with the culture’s taboo words is beneficial to avoid using them accidently. It may also include asking those who had visited the culture being translated inquiring about their experience so as to acquire some information about the culture. Finally one should be open to
different
cultures in order to adjust and avoid having
but through a double take, their intended
it on my face: ”امسحها بوجهيwhen intending
confusion, offence, or even amusement at
Many a times translators tend to believe that
Arabic it has a very negative connotation, as
meanings can ring a hard and baffling bell. All
to express an apology. Indeed, it has been
their expense! Because you cannot say you
linguistic knowledge is sufficient for translation
it represents pessimism. A further example
three phrases are literal and direct translations
committed by an Arabic native speaker and I
haven’t, at least, cracked a smile while reading
between two culturally unrelated languages.
of this sort of miscommunication through
of Arabic idioms and expressions into English,
have seen it with my own eyes. Honestly, how
the mentioned errors.
However, this is commonly rejected among the
translation is the African equivalence for
cultures and to learning so they
professionals of this field. Cultural knowledge
everything that flies to be called a «bird».
any difficulties dealing with
and having
is a huge key aspect for a translator to acquire
Africans also tend to not assign different terms
miscommunication
culture.
which is the act of what is linguistically known
do you expect one’s company to respond to
as pragmatic transference. Such errors can
that except in total confusion at what seems
Reference
problems with translations. Translators should always be open to new
with
that
don’t find
In
be easily (and naturally) made by English
to be a change of subject, or by them asking,
Rajab, H. (n.d.). From My Two Eyes Teacher!
while translating from one language to another.
to different shades of colors, hence this may be
addition, a translator would seem more
language learners during early stages of
“Wipe what exactly?” Likewise, any direct
King Fahad University of Petroleum & Minerals.
Language reflects culture and hence cultural
confusing to the translator. Another simple yet
professional in his or her field if he or she is
learning. Arabic idioms are commonly used
translation, whether it be idioms or practiced
http://www.ksaalt.org/conference%20
knowledge is a must in learning a foreign
difficult case would be, for instance, translating
more aware of other cultures and not only their
proceedings/YC_Hussam_Rajab.pdf
language. It is generally accepted that an
the expression “as white as snow” to a culture
own.
by Arabic speakers and are especially tricky,
46
TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
phrases, must be translated while taking
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Articles
of
Uniqueness of Architecture
Uniqueness of Architecture
Uniqueness Architecture as Cognitive Area and Cultural Product
,,
Ekistics is defined as “the environment controlled by human additions and his material and incorporeal products represented in its peak by human settlements and their direct areas». Ekistics can be the result of the interaction of human intelligence with the natural environment to fulfill his physical and spiritual needs. It can also be a means for society to renew its knowledge and its basic concepts, and to hone the creative skills and potentials of its individuals. Therefore, there is a direct, complex, and reciprocal relationship between society and Ekistics because each affects and is affected by the other.
,, 48
TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
By: Dr. Manal Osama Assistant Professor PSU Architecture and Interior
TRANSLATION CONNECT
Ekistics can be the result of the interaction of human intelligence with the natural environment to fulfill his physical and spiritual needs. It can also be a means for society to renew its knowledge and its basic concepts, and to hone the creative skills and potentials of its individuals
Art and Architecture share the same problems as the quantitative measurement is eliminated, generalization diminishes, and the concept of «scientific truth» turns into the concept of «cultural relativism» and «intrinsic values”.
A
Articles
rchitecture is closely associated with
and its non-physical aspects (such as habits,
universality that help Architecture in the areas
Ekistics and considered one of its
traditions, customs, language, rituals, beliefs,
of utilitarian design, prediction and evaluation.
most
The
etc.) are the most important elements of the
The issues of style, character, form, and
concept of architecture refers to the spatial
formation of urbanism and structural product
aesthetics become marginal at this utilitarian
(triple and four-dimensional) expression for
because of the following:
level. It is only possible to distinguish the good
the needs of the users. It is also the masterly
• The level of science and knowledge
form from other types of forms at the cultural
effort and work characterized by complicated
determines the technique, style of construction,
level of Architecture, where the matters of
features and details performed to reach the
and the used materials.
beauty, meaning and feeling and related
most appropriate expressions and optimal
• The
traditions
style, character, form, and decoration issues
formations whose purpose is to contain the
determines the constructional standards and
are highlighted. At the cultural dimension, a
individuals’ functions and activities and to
the achievement of urban harmonization.
construction ascends from being a “building” or
respond properly to their material and cultural
• The level of religion and belief determines the
an “artifact” to becoming “Architecture” or “Art
needs taking into consideration the regulations
structural codes through using certain motifs.
Object” in a way similar to other art products. It
important
components.
level
of
customs
and
and laws of the domain and the content.
is at this level that Architecture can be viewed
Architecture is one of the most important
The utilitarian aspects of Architecture cannot
as autonomous where it emerges, ends and
expressions of human aspirations. It is a
be separated from other man-made objects in
contains within itself its own real problems.
vessel which contains human material and
terms of the application of the laws of nature
Hence Art and Architecture share the same
spiritual activities, and it is widely regarded as
and quantitative criteria. The scientific theories
problems as the quantitative measurement
one of the most prestigious Fine Arts, and the
served the utilitarian aspects of architecture so
is eliminated, generalization diminishes, and
most important representation of culture. The
well because they provided a group of what
the concept of «scientific truth» turns into the
material aspects of culture (such as sciences,
can be called architectural scientific theories
concept of «cultural relativism» and «intrinsic
knowledge, arts, creative activities .., etc.)
which are characterized by their generality &
values”.
Translated by Mr. Ashraf Thaher
Translator, Prince Salman Research & Translation Center, PSU
Design Department
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Articles
One Man’s Experience in Saudi Arabia
One Man’s Experience in Saudi Arabia
My exposure to the
Dr. Dan Wong, PhD
Assistant Professor – Aviation Management, P S U
One Man’s Experience in Saudi Arabia
TRANSLATION CONNECT
have always been curious about life
class international airport.
that is going on around me.
As a result,
As a
my interactions with other professionals,
child growing up in the United States,
as well as with clients and the traveling
I was always found wandering, actively
public were kept very short and to the
exploring the community around me. This
point. Little time was spent on what we
desire to explore the world stayed with me
considered idle chatter, with the issues of
into my adulthood. I have, in my career
business very much front and center. In
as an airport planner and administrator,
our living in Australia, I discovered that
of Life” that continues to
been afforded the opportunity in both my
business interactions were even more
be priceless…and will be
personal and professional lives to visit
compressed to the point of where there
forever a part of my being
many places both inside and outside the
was virtually no interpersonal bantering
United States.
at business meetings.
business practices and cultures in other countries is, for me, an integral part of my
Business Practices and Culture
I
Articles
personal and professional education in the “School
In fact, when I chose to
This “business-
leave my very successful airport career in
oriented” environment extended to how
2010 to become an academic, I subjected
offices were furnished with most employees
my wife and trusty cat to over three years of
being placed in cubicles with possibly room
living in Brisbane, Australia while returning
for one guest chair. If you were lucky to be
to university to seek my PhD degree.
supplied with an enclosed office, you might
After achieving the PhD degree in 2013
be able to have two or three guest chairs.
and teaching for nearly one year back
Most business meetings were conducted
in the United States, I was offered a full-
in specially designated conference rooms
time faculty appointment at Prince Sultan
consisting of chairs that were placed around
University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. After
a large table.
discussing it with my wife, we were off again
were conducted quickly and efficiently to
on another adventure to another part of the
minimize the physical time being spent
world where neither of us had been. We
away from our work areas.
did read up as much as we could on the
During my rummaging around Riyadh
customs and traditions of the Middle East,
during the first few weeks after arriving from
as well as receive advice from my sister
the United States, I was taken aback at how
as she, as a long-time member of the US
the pace of life seemed to slow down when
Foreign Service, has worked in the Middle
it came to tasks like conducting transactions
East for a number of years. Regardless of
at the bank. At the branch I usually bank at,
all of the information that we acquired about
I took a number from the machine and sat
Saudi Arabia, it did not truly prepare me for
in a lounge chair waiting for my number to
all of the challenges that awaited us.
come up on the screen. Once my number
In my previous professional life in the airport
was displayed, the service agent always
industry, I was highly encouraged to be as
asked me to have a seat and started a
efficient as I could with my time as we were
discussion on some newsworthy incident
inundated with a significant amount of work
for several minutes before asking me what
related to the operations of a major world-
I would like him to do today for me. Once
Meetings in these rooms
At one of the aviation firms we visited in Jeddah, we were photographed so much by the staff photographer that I felt a bit like Brad Pitt or some other Hollywood celebrity having to deal with the paparazzi during the course of a day
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One Man’s Experience in Saudi Arabia
SPOTLIGHT ON COSTA RICA
Articles
TRANSLATION CONNECT
during my rather recent arrival from the United
Looking back upon my experiences to date during my rather recent arrival from the United States, I have had to quickly learn much about the business culture and etiquette expected of business people here in Saudi Arabia
States, I have had to quickly learn much about the business culture and etiquette expected of business people here in Saudi Arabia. I am thankful that there were people here who were willing and able to assist me through my “period of adjustment” as I learned to adapt to
the banking transaction was completed, he
amounts of food and beverages that seem to
new ways of conducting myself in expanding
thanked me and I was out of there, some 30 or
be a mainstay at virtually all of our numerous
my professional aviation networks to include
so minutes after coming into the bank.
meetings with Saudi aviation leaders. I learned
many Saudi aviation leaders. As with the time
This past January, I was given the opportunity
that it was during these meals with our hosts
I spent in Australia, it is likely that I will adopt
to be a part of a university delegation to meet
that much of the business took place. At the
and carry forward a number of these practices
with a number of Saudi aviation leaders in their
end of these meetings, I have learned during
if and when it is time for my wife and I to leave
offices located in Jeddah.
While I certainly
my stay in Saudi Arabia to be well prepared for
expected to be in numerous conference
the proverbial group photograph taken at the
rooms with executives in various discussions
end of each meeting to memorialize the event
regarding
and
for posterity, as well as either the exchange or
exploration, I did not expect that we would
receipt of gifts that were also photographed.
spend time with some very high level aviation
In fact, at one of the aviation firms we visited
executives just sitting around on couches in
in Jeddah, we were photographed so much by
their offices just talking about anything and
the staff photographer that I felt a bit like Brad
everything, getting to know each other. This is
Pitt or some other Hollywood celebrity having
something that would rarely occur in the busy
to deal with the paparazzi during the course
“School of Life” that continues to be priceless…
C-suite environment in either US or Australian
of a day.
and will be forever a part of my being no matter
items
of
mutual
interest
businesses or government agencies.
In
addition, our delegation was served copious
Looking back upon my experiences to date
Saudi Arabia for other lands that are currently unknown at this time. While all of this has sometimes been an embarrassing or painful experience for me given my desire to be the consummate professional, my exposure to the business practices and cultures in other
SPOTLIGHT ON
countries is, for me, an integral part of my
COSTA RICA
personal and professional education in the Costa Rica is one of the most fascinating
city of San Jose. Traditional dances, cultural
a 96% literacy rate. Even in the most rural
and valued environmental destinations in the
workshops, Carrribean-inspired concerts, and
communities of Costa Rica where ticos are
where my wife and I, along with our trusty cat,
world. Located in Central America, it features
national heritage parades can all be enjoyed
very poor and do not have access to schools,
end up on this increasingly smaller planet.
a rich culture, diverse languages, and various
by ticos (local Costa Rican people) and
classes in English and Spanish are taught over
ecological attraction sites. As a country that
foreigners alike. Across the country, sodas,
a national radio system.
caters to those looking to relax or explore,
or restaurants that serve traditional Costa
The locals are healthy, friendly, and usually
it could be the next landing spot for your
Rican cuisine, can be found offering the staple
speak English—they might talk to you about
upcoming summer vacation. Featured photos
ingredients of the Costa Rican diet: rice, black
topics ranging from environmental awareness
were recently taken by the author in July 2014.
beans, bread, meat, vegetables, salads, and
to global politics, or share interesting pieces
fresh fruits. Rice and beans mixed together for
of national history. Furthermore, Costa Rica
Culture
breakfast, for instance, is called gallo pinto.
has one of the highest life expectancy rates
Costa Rica is not only a tourist destination,
While traveling in Costa Rica, the national
in the world. With employment salaries among
but a cultural hot spot that values art and
emphasis on education becomes obvious. In
the highest in Latin America, Costa Ricans
1869, Costa Rica became the first country in
live longer and healthier lives thanks to their
Central America to make education free and
Pura Vidalifestyle. Pura Vida, or “pure life”
mandatory for all citizens. Costa Rica has
in Spanish, is a feel-good expression used
education across multiple levels. Simply put, the Costa Rican, or tico, culture is vastly diverse. Moreover, as a democratic government with presidential elections every 4 years, it is interesting to note that the country currently has no standing army. is vibrant with a plethora of colors—as can be
By: Ms. Renee Tolson
seen in paintings, bead work, woven goods,
Lecturer, PSU English
and woodwork. On any given weekend, local
Department
Culturally speaking, the artwork of Costa Rica
and regional artists line the city squares to showcase their colorful work in the capital
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Articles
SPOTLIGHT ON COSTA RICA
Architectural Environment and Socio-Cultural Aspects
Articles
TRANSLATION CONNECT
In 1869, Costa Rica became the first country in Central America to make education free and mandatory for all citizens. Costa Rica has a 96% literacy rate regularly by the locals when asked how
are over 20 national parks to visit, with
they are or in passing to say hello/goodbye.
locally trained English-speaking guides to accompany you. Ecological-friendly
Language
activities cover a broad spectrum of
While the official language of Costa Rica
categories – from hiking to snorkeling to
is Spanish, English is easily regarded as
white water rafting – and are inclusive to
the second most common language—
people of all ages and abilities.
especially at hotels, shops, restaurants,
Monkeys are one of the most common
and tourist agencies. Latin American
mammals in Costa Rica and can be seen
Spanish not only has some differences in
in most of the country’s forests. Also, more
pronunciation from the Spanish spoken in
than 10% of the world’s butterflies live
Spain, but the grammar and vocabulary vary as well. Even within Costa Rica, the pronunciation of Spanish varies from one province to another. There are several indigenous languages spoken in Costa Rica, including Bribri, Maleku, Guaymí, Cabécar and Boruca. Most of the indigenous peoples of Costa Rica live in rural areas off the beaten path— in places like the Talamanca Mountain Range. Moreover, on the Caribbean Coast in Puerto de Viejo de Limon, many of the inhabitants are of Jamaican origin and speak an English Creole dialect. Interestingly enough, various areas of Costa Rica—like Manuel Antonio, Arenal, and Puerto Viejo de Limon—have a high population of Italian, German, and French residents who operate hotels, stores, and tourist excursions. Therefore, it is possible to find hotels where one or more of these
Sr y SraEse, a well-known woodwork souvenir shop in Costa Rica. since 1964.
here! Mariposario Montezuma Gardens, a well-known bed and breakfast located in the town of Montezuma, is a prime example of how Costa Rica embraces the true concept of developing sustainable environments, while educating the public.
Capuchin monkey on a hiking trail near the Montezuma Waterfalls, Costa Rica.
The Reciprocal Relation between
Since 2005, the bed and breakfast staff, with an approval from the Costa Rican Ministry of the Environment and Energy, has operated a jungle-butterfly garden that houses and grows up to ten Neotropical butterfly species. Moreover, with 801 miles of coastline in Costa Rica, there are a plentiful amount of tropical beaches that feature activities such as surfing, swimming, diving, fishing, and more. Costa Rica is home to about 6 active volcanoes, with Arenal Volcano being one of the country’s most well-known
Montezuma, Costa Rica. Located on the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula.
Socio-Cultural Aspects and Architectural Environment
and visited. It is quite easy to arrange local
European languages are spoken.
guided tours and activities from any hotel or
Ecological Sites to Visit
responsible tour operators and hotels, you
Costa
ecotourism—a
can guarantee that your trip contributes to
form of tourism that includes responsible
conservation efforts and to the well-being
travel to undisturbed natural areas for the
of local wildlife.
purposes of conserving the environment
As an environmentally diverse and unique
and improving the well-being of the local
country, Costa Rica features a wonderful
partakes on human beings. The point of view presented
people. In fact, there are more than 100
history of a peaceful and family-oriented
in this paper is based on the concept that this relation is
ecological protected areas to visit—cloud
culture. It is more than just a vacation
directionally proportional. It is also clarified gradually
forests,
destination—it is an interactive educational
Rica
embraces
waterfalls,
rainforests,
caves,
volcanoes, and wildlife habitats. There
54
D
accommodation. By using environmentally
TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
experience.
ifferent viewpoints tend to interpret the structure that forms the relationship between architectural environment - a form of materialistic medium -and its users through one of its vital aspects,
i.e., the nature of the impact that architectural environment
Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica.
By: Dr. Salma Dwidar Associate Professor, PSU Architecture and Interior Design Department
throughout a series of proposed assumptions that start from the most to the least probable.
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TRANSLATION CONNECT
Architectural Environment and Socio-Cultural Aspects
Architectural Environment and Socio-Cultural Aspects
Articles
TRANSLATION CONNECT
medium (i.e. a “culture”).
When humans initially interact with new
determinants, which is a form of non-verbal
surroundings, their first reaction would be
communication.
to recognize, identify, and collect as much and Design Structure
The fact that humans interact and adopt a
In order to comprehend the nature of the
different behavior in accordance with new
relation
fact that humans instinctively act properly and appropriately to different environments Some intellectuals view the link amongst
meaning of usage and possession of places,
population and architectural features as
“privacy” implies controlling other people’s
a ‘reciprocal-effect’ type of relation. Irwin
privacies, and “personal space” to indicate
Altman, for instance, a sociologist who
personal
supports this view, suggested a model
This model shows that environment-human
called the ecological model for social
link is dynamic through time and not static.
systems, whose main scope is that mutual
It also occurs through a series of various
human
is
levels of behavioral action. Similarly, Edward
part of a complex ecosystem. In addition,
Kurbat, a sociologist, has also asserted this
architectural
human
fact, that there is a constant “give and take”
interconnected.
interconnection since every element in the
behavior
behavior
among
environment
are
strongly
individuals and
between
individuals.
Consequently, a bilateral reciprocal effect
system has a reflex onto the other.
exists between humans and the architectural
Our environments are shaped by a vicious
environment.
circle of reciprocal influence; thus, it enables
In accordance to the previously mentioned
us to place a generalization for urban
views,
then
behavior that are ought not to be justified
becomes an extension to the existence and
by restricting certain results or employing a
formulation of human character. To exemplify
unified category for all individuals.
this, terms; such as, “social area” reflects a
First: Stages of Interaction between Humans
architectural
56
environment
TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
humans
and
design
As aforementioned, we find it clear that
information in order to derive its basic
this principle is based on the fact that there
features and react in accordance
is a circular relationship in which social organizations lead to an architectural pattern.
structure, we need to take into consideration
surroundings draws the attention to the
distance
between
the following stages of interaction. They
Then, an image of this forms in the brain.
Architects
include; identifying surrounding objects,
This image enables humans to establish
architectural places do not only include
developing a sense towards them, and
an impression and a sensation towards the
architectural components and elements, but
finally interacting with them in such manners
environment, whether it be an impression of
also individual and social behaviors that occur
as listed;
familiarity or an aversion or feeling in between.
within them. Thus, participants and the nature
Humans would finally begin to interplay with
of their interactions determine activities that
the environment.
occur in these architectural locations.
1-
Perception:
knowledge
includes
cognition
of basic mental
and
processes
and
sociologists
view
that
that aid human beings to understand their People and the environment, both have
environments.
Second: The Reciprocal Relation between
2- Response: includes all feelings and
Human Activity and Design Structure
a history and pass through different stages of
senses towards the environment including
One of the main beliefs in all proposed
maturity. In this regard, population behavior
‘desire stimulators’.
schemes that are employed to interpret the
is a clear indicator of the interactive results
human
acts of inhabitants in architecture is, that
of the functions and regulations that govern
capability of interaction with the surrounding
human activity schemes are organizationally
architectural locations.
stimuli which will result in developing a
variant. These structures may be strong
certain behavior based on what has been
or weak in regards to their link within and
The fact that humans interact and adopt a
perceived.
between different places. Moreover, people,
different behavior in accordance with new
These three stages have a sequential order.
similar to places, pass through a series of
surroundings draws the attention to the fact
In the sense that, when humans initially
historic transitions.
that humans instinctively act properly and
3-
Willingness:
comprises
of
appropriately
interact with new surroundings, their first
to
different
With occurring changes onto those social organizations, such patterns seek to comply and harmonize with the existing environment and accordingly result in some changes. This approach does not contradict the direction of the presumption of this study (i.e. the socio-cultural factors on architectural environment); rather, it implicitly confirms the effects and reflection of social characteristics on design structures. That is in addition to, the impact of the architectural environment on the population’s behavioral patterns.
environments.
Translated By: Ms. Manal Althagafi
reaction would be to recognize, identify, and
Third: The Reciprocal Relation between Social
This goes to the reason that they strive to
Teaching Assistant, PSU English
collect as much information in order to derive
Behaviors and Design Structure
create harmony between their behaviors
Department
its basic features and react in accordance.
This confirms
that built environment imposes behavioral
and prevailing behaviors in a particular
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TRANSLATION CONNECT
tion
Tran sla sla tion n a Tr tion
A Journey Inside
Audiovisual Translation
language. It usually has the same author,
cannot access from the soundtrack such
helps the blind to understand the plot of
who uses paraphrases to explain the text in
as, the irony of the statement or a knock
the story. The third kind is live subtitling.
different words. Also, in this type the target
on the door. The second kind of intralingual
This kind of subtitling often needs some
text can be created at almost the same
translation is audio description for the blind.
technical support because it is carried out
time as the original. However, Intralingual
This kind of translation is an additional
for live broadcasts (e.g. sporting events or
Audiovisual Translation is divided into four
narrative that fits between the original
TV news). That is why special keyboards are
categories. The first type is subtitling for the
dialogues and describes everything that
being used: they allow the typist to press two
hard-of-hearing and the deaf, or as we call
is seen in the film or on the stage. Also,
or more keys at the same time or perhaps
academic research has started in this field and several works concerning
SDH. The SDH is one kind of intralingual
it includes descriptions of actions, facial
to write syllables instead of single letters.
By: Ms. Yara Al-Mureabh
audiovisual translation have been published. Cintas and Remael (2006)
translation that is developing most at
expressions, and clothing. As a result, it
Finally, the last type of intralingual translation
defined audiovisual translation as the translation of products in which the
present. Indeed, they are meant for people
PSU, English
verbal dimension is supplemented by elements in other media. However,
with hearing problems and are prepared
Department Student
audiovisual translation is divided into two main branches: Intralingual
specifically for this target group. This type of
Audiovisual Translation and Interlingual Audiovisual Translation.
subtitles usually changes color on television
Sometimes, when we watch movies, news or programs, we watch them with different types of translation such as dubbed or subtitled programs. These different types of translation are called Audiovisual translation. However, audiovisual translation is a branch of translation studies, which has been ignored by translatology scholars until very recently. Therefore, subtitlers did not actually know how exactly the job should be done, but this field has been improving in recent years. In fact,
depending on the person who is speaking.
58
TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
First, in Intralingual Audiovisual Translation, the source language is the
Furthermore, they can also give us some
same as the target language and involves a shift from oral to written
paralinguistic information that those people
Our knowledge of other countries will be notably increased with the usage of translation. That is why having translators is crucial to our existence.
2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a
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Articles
Welcome to the Translation Program!
When Translation, Research and Creativity Meet
is surtitling for the opera and theatre. This
aim of interlingual translation is to make the
same effect on the target language audience
kind of subtitles is often used during musical
audiovisual production (films, TV programs
as the original has on the source language
performances or the opera. Usually, they are
etc.) comprehensible for audiences who
audience. However, one rule in dubbing is that
the translated or transcribed lyrics projected
cannot understand the language. This type
above the scene. In addition, they may be used
of translation can be divided into two groups,
either to translate the meaning of the lyrics to
subtitling and dubbing. Subtitling is “the
the audience’s language, or to transcribe lyrics
translation of the spoken (or written) source
that may be difficult to understand in the song
text of an audiovisual product into written
between the job of a subtitler and a dubbing
form. In fact, surtitling for theatre follows the
target text which is added onto the images
translator. Subtitlers do a complex job:
same principles as subtitling for television, but
of the original product, usually at the bottom
spotting, translation and subtitle composition.
the only exception is the speed of the surtitles
of the screen” (Karamitroglou, 2000). Four
In addition, they can be either permanent staff
it should match the lip movement. As a result of the differences between these two types, there is a substantial difference
Articles
TRANSLATION CONNECT
When Translation, Research and Creativity Meet Translation Class Research Project
By:
Ms. Reem AlOmar English Department Student,
of subtitling studios or TV stations or they can
PSU
be free-lancers. On the other hand, the dubbing
A great translator always attempts to upgrade his/her language and knowledge, so it goes without saying that the more well-read a translator is, the better his/ her performance will be
translator only has to do a rough translation of the dialogue. He usually translates the script word by word, sometimes suggesting various
As students who are taking Specialized
was responsible for designing the brochures,
This international organization is responsible
possibilities of translation and then passes it
Translation II -Social Sciences (ENG367 ) with
said: “ One of our group objectives was to
for the largest animal seizure in history.
Dr.Hadeer Abou ElNagah, we were required
cooperate with other and practice teamwork.
Wjoud Al-Futaimany, a member of this group
to do a mini group project. This course aims
Also, to know more about international
who managed to write their group report
to focus on International Organizations texts
organizations.” However, through the project
such as World Health Organization (WHO),
our
International Monetary Fund (IMF) and United
example, difficult words and terminology were
Nations Organization (UN). Political, Legal
found such as abbreviations, which should be
opportunity to learn other foreign languages
and Media are also parts of the course that
searched to get their meanings such as GA:
through hearing or reading the other language
will be covered. The project was based on
General Assembly. Another challenge is that
too much of the screen that would be
that actors, reporters or interviewers perform.
intensive research work, we needed to read
the structure of some sentences was not easy
very disturbing. Third, the number
Likewise, it can be more complex than some
more about many organizations other than the
to understand due to the level of terminology
of characters per line should be
people think; the audiovisual translator goes
ones we already dealt with in the classwork
used in these texts. Moreover, Some of the
how they were enjoying and loving what they
between 35 - 40 characters
under a lot of pressures and responsibilities to
and home works. We were asked to choose
international organizations that were chosen
were doing. As a result of the project, we have
an international organization, find facts about
by the other groups were; International
built and exchanged glossaries that include
on to the dubbing writers who then compose a dubbing dialogue, which is synchronous with the original one.
general rules apply to subtitling. First, subtitles
as they have to be slower. The second type of AVT is the Interlingual Audiovisual
Translation. The
should be placed at the bottom of the screen in order not to interrupt the image action. Second, there can be a maximum of two lines on each screen; otherwise the subtitles would cover
in each line. Finally, the
some
challenges.
For
stated that: “ our objective of choosing this organization is to increase public awareness of animal rights and issues, to improve people’s abilities to help and assist abused animals and to reduce wearing clothing made of animals skin.” Yet, this group distributed their broachers in a creative way that showed
the organization and translate these facts and
Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL),
terms that can be helpful when translating
present them to our colleagues by brochures.
which is an organization that aims to enable
international organizations texts. In addition
exceed 6 seconds
Each group chose an organization and every
police around the world to work together in
to that, teamwork skills have been developed
member in the group was responsible for a
order to make the world safer. They provided
successfully throughout this project. In my
because
viewers
References:
would immediately
Cintas J.D, R and Remael A. (2006).
task in the project. Our group decided to work
us with useful information and the whole
start to reread it.
Audiovisual translation: Subtitling (Translation
on World Tourism Organization (UNWTO),
class were surprised that such organization
As
practices explained). Manchester: St Jerome
which is one of the United Nations agencies
exists in the world. I interviewed Sara Al-
Publishing
and it is responsible for developing and
Maziad, who was a member of this group, she
a
promoting tourism. The purpose of choosing
mentioned that one of the struggles that they
methodology for the investigation of norms in
this organization is to know its objectives,
faced was: “the terminology was sometimes
achievements and its effects on the world.
too specific and difficult to translate because
Our group objectives of that project were to
of the lack of technical equivalent in Arabic
learn new vocabularies that are related to
and the inefficiency of transliteration in that
sometimes are time consuming, eventually
international organizations. Also, to understand
particular case.” The third group presented
we will recognize that they are worth spending
how such texts should be translated. Majd
an interesting organization, which is People
time on and they are essential for enhancing
Al-Qurashi, one of our group members who
for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).
our productivity.
for
dubbing,
the target language completely replaces the source language, which is why it is also called lip-sync dubbing. Indeed, it is performed by
Karamitroglou
D.F.
(2000).
Towards
Audiovisual Translation. Amsterdam: Editions Rodopi B.V
professional actors, usually
Reich, P. (2006, January 1). The film and the
each of them dubbing one
book in translation. Retrieved on December
character, and its aim is to have the TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
construct the final product.
faced
on the screen cannot
duration of a subtitle
60
In essence, audiovisual translation is a great
group
14, 2014.
opinion, I truly believe that we should do more of these projects; especially in specialized translation courses because we will learn more terminology and the quality of our translation will improve. These projects also can help us to benefit from each other and develop teamwork skills. Even though such projects
2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a
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TRANSLATION CONNECT
Interviews
Professor Dr. Saadat Saeed
Professor Dr. Saadat Saeed
TRANSLATION CONNECT
Saadat Saeed has published 30 books on
limited to the citizens of Pakistan, and can be
by lqbal), lqbal- Shariati Foundation Lahore,
critical and reflective appraisement of the
awarded to foreign citizens who have done
1987- 88.
basic norms of creative and philosophical
great services to Pakistan. It is the lowest but
writings. Besides his books, he has more
restricted award only conferred to individuals
than 250 national and international research
who have accomplished duty beyond what is
publications to his credit. Critics consider
assigned to them.
Saadat Saeed`s poetic collection Kajli Bun
INTERVIEW WITH A LEGEND IN THE FIELD OF EDUCATION
Interviews
2-Tahzib, Jadidiat Aur Hum (Translation), Iqbal Shariati Foundation Lahore, 1987- 88. 3-Chand waqt Translation from Turkish Pub. Pak Turk cultural Association Pakistan 19998 4-My translations of Danish(Thirty poets)and
an important book of modern Urdu poetry. His
Dr. Saadat, it is not a hidden fact that you
books of criticism ‘Jayhat Numayee, Fun aur
have mastered a lot of languages, would
Persian (Thirty five )poets were published in
Khaliq,e Adab aur nafi e Adab’ encompass
you like to tell which ones are they?
Adbiat a Journal from Pakistan Academy of
contemporary trends of Urdu fiction, poetry
I am a polygot, copious theories exist
letters Islamabad Pakistan 1997
and contemporary literary theories.
that give us explanations for polyglotism.
Associated with teaching and research for
For example, it has been recognized that
forty years, he has supervised research
someone who is interested in languages,
work at M.A., M. Phil. and Ph.D. level
with a sufficiently developed intellect, and
in Pakistan as well as Turkey. He is the
who optimizes their learning technique with
only professor of Urdu language who was
experience, will become increasingly efficient
appointed as a Tenure Track Professor
as each new language is learned; therefore,
by the Higher Education Commission of
such an individual is able to master new
When a translator uses his own language for
Pakistan. He was posted on the Pakistan
languages with less effort than the average
translation the other language can lose its
Chair for Urdu and Pakistan Studies at
person. Also, different languages overlap in
identity. As we know, the grammars of both
Ankara University, Turkey for a period of
the areas of grammar and vocabulary, and
languages differ. As their syntaxes, phrases,
five years. He has edited many journals and
this makes it easier to acquire connected
organized and presided over many national
languages, such as Urdu, Punjabi, Persian,
morphologies
and international seminars and conferences.
Arabic, Turkish and English. I am proficient in
His sundry areas of interest include Life,
6 languages and I can describe my mastery
Literature, Philosophy, Mysticism, Sociology,
in these languages as follows:
Do you think translation helps to promote specific language content or the original language loses its identity? As far as literary and creative translations are concerned we cannot achieve 100% results.
and
meaning
structures
usually do not match, the risk of losing the identity of the original language always faces dangerous points.
and
1- Urdu: (Read / Speak / Write)- this
Religion. He has evaluated world literature
language is also my mother tongue and I use
Do you wish to suggest anything to the
in structuralism, post-Structuralism, feminist,
it for my creative and academic works.
budding translators of tomorrow?
History,
Civilization,
Psychology
neo-colonialist psyche, historicism, psycho-
2- English:(Read / Speak / Write)- this
Translators
should
analytic, existentialist, logical positivistic,
language is used as a vehicle to write and
translation
machine.
Marxist,
translate articles. The number of translations
common sense which a mechanical translator
modernist,
post-modernist,
deconstructive and linguistic perspectives.
has reached more than a hundred thirty.
He has an equally strong grip on classical as
3- Persian:(Read / Speak / Write)-primarily
well as modern literature. He enjoys sound
used to translate some poems and prose into
command over six languages. In recognition
Urdu.
of his academic and literary contributions
4- Punjabi:(Read / Speak / Write) -wrote few
several national and international awards
articles and poems. 5- Turkish: (Read / Speak / Write, Passed
have been conferred upon him.
avoid
becoming
Translation
a
needs
often does not use properly. Translations require hard work. Commercial translators always take an easy path. They only smell sense and convey it in their own words. This utilitarian method can spoil the originality of the translated language.
certificate and special course) wrote few
,,
Professor Dr. Saadat Saeed is widely
and prepared Turkish and Urdu language
field from Government of Pakistan, can
learners for Turkish students.
you please tell us more about it?
6- Arabic: Can Read and understand.
I was awarded Tamgha-i-Imtiaz in 2014 for my excellent performance in the field
I am aware that you have done a great
of Literature. Tamgha-i-Imtiaz
(Medal of
deal of work in the field of translation. Do
and educationist. He has upheld
Excellence) is state organized honour of
you wish to elaborate on that? (Names of
modern Pakistani Cultural traditions
State of Pakistan. It is the fourth-highest
books, poems or any other form of literary
decoration given to any civilian in Pakistan
piece).
based on their achievements. While it is a
I have translated from Persian, English and
civilian award, it can also be bestowed to
Turkish languages
Military officers of the Pakistan Armed Forces
1-Ab Kia Kia Jana Chahiay (Translation of
and worn in the uniform. The award is not
Pas Chah Baayad Kard – A Persian poem
,,
TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
articles and poems, translated some poems
for your contribution in the educational
known as a poet, critic, researcher
in his literary and educational career
62
You recently received an honorary award
For more information about Dr.Saadat Saeed literary work please visit: saadatsaeed.com and -en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ Saadat_Saeed
By: Ms. Maria Zaheer Lecturer, PSU English Department
2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a
63
TRANSLATION CONNECT
Interviews
Mr. Abdullah AlAmar
Mr. Abdullah AlAmar
Mr. Abdullah AlAmar
To take part in the translation activity,
100,000 S.R for the translator based on the
an interview with Mr. Abdullah AlAmar, the
applicants should:
reviewer’s evaluation and the number of
Director of the Translation Department at the
1. Go to www.ipa.edu.sa
pages translated.
renowned Institute of Public Administration
2. On the home page, click on “IPA Services”
(IPA), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. In the Interview,
3. Scroll down and click on “Translation”
What are the important accomplishments
Mr. AlAmr tells our readers about his own
4. Read the instructions and then save the
achieved by the department?
translation history as well as the structure,
“Translation Plan Form” to your computer.
Today
accomplishments and future plans of the IPA
5. Fill out the “Translation Plan Form” and
translated and published by the IPA and
Translation Department.
translate a sample of 300 words from the
about 20 others are still underway. The
book you selected for translation.
Translation Department selects around 20
6. Submit the “Translation Plan Form” and
books including classical, contemporary and
a copy of the selected book’s cover page,
modern titles to be translated into Arabic
background.
table of contents and sample of translation
every year.
I hold a bachelor’s degree in English
to the Director General of the Research
Translation
and
Research & Translation Center, PSU
Director of the Translation Department at the Institute of Public Administration
your
educational/professional
and
Literature
from
Imam
about
153
books
have
been
Center expressing willingness to participate
What are your future plans?
University, and a master’s degree in TESOL
in the translation of academic research.
We have the determination to enhance
from Arkansas Tech University in Arkansas,
However, books and articles are selected
translation activities in the Arab World by
USA. I have worked as a translator at Vinnell
based on how much they serve the purposes
establishing collaborations with various
Arabia Company. Now, I am a faculty staff
set by the IPA. Careful investigation is
parities including universities, organizations
member and the Director of the Translation
being done by the Research Committee to
and institutions of higher education. Further,
Department at the Institute of Public
determine the most suitable and best titles
we are planning to move systematically in
Administration in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
to be translated. Moreover, there are certain conditions that must be met in the materials
Tell us more about the IPA Translation
proposed for translation. The book/article
Department.
must:
The Translation Department was established
• Tackle authentic topics in depth and add an
IPA. Therefore, translated materials
in 1997 according to the IPA organizational
academic value to the field of administration.
structure issued in the same year. The
• Be a newly released publication.
are subjected to thorough quality
Translation Department is the first of its kind
• Not have been translated into Arabic
assurance checks at every point in
in the Arab world to provide a translation
before.
the translation process
that centers on administrative sciences. It
In addition, quality is of course essential to
depends on professionally trained translators
the IPA. Therefore, translated materials are
and specialists as well as faculty members
subjected to thorough quality assurance
to rewrite texts in a different language, fully
checks at every point in the translation
our mission to become the go-to unit for
capturing the intended meaning, style, and
process. Therefore, when the translation
determining the standards and assuring the
Today about 153 books have been translated and
tone of the text, while employing correct
plan
quality of translation in the IPA.
published by the IPA and about 20 others are still
grammar
secure
Committee, the translator is given one
sound and distinctive translation, we have
year from the date of the final approval to
Would you like to add any additional
underway. The Translation Department selects around
gathered
comprising
complete his/her work. After the work is
information?
some of the distinguished scholars and
received, it is compared against the source
At the end, I would like to express my
practitioners. The department constantly
book, and a reviewer is chosen by the
thankfulness and gratitude for Dr. Dina El-
endeavors to develop translation skills
Research Committee to evaluate it. If the
Dakhs as well as the staff at Prince Sultan
and professionalism through translation,
reviewer approves it, reports are sent to the
University for offering us at the IPA the
in addition to editing and proofreading
translator to do the necessary changes. But,
opportunity to take part in the International
translated materials.
if the work is rejected by the reviewer, the
Translation Day in 2014. Furthermore, I
translator is respectfully informed about the
am honored to participate in Translation
Kindly, explain to us the funding process of
rejection.
Connect Magazine, and I am looking
book translation at your institution.
Finally, the IPA has allocated a sum of
forward for further cooperation.
20 books including classical, contemporary and modern titles to be translated into Arabic every year.
64
TRANSLATION CONNECT
Translation Connect is privileged to include
At the beginning, tell us about yourself,
By: Ms. Mona Al-Yemni
Interviews
TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
and
terminology.
faculty
members
To
is
accepted
by
the
Research
Quality is of course essential to the
2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a
65
TRANSLATION CONNECT
Interviews
Dr. Wegdan Khalifa
Dr. Wegdan Khalifa
Critical Discourse Analysis: Encouraging Critical Language Awareness in Saudi Arabia’s Tertiary Education
these courses to real life situations. CDA
translator is part of the social context in
that CDA concentrates more on the areas of
touches upon all areas of life and language.
which he produces his text. Therefore, he
power, ideology and control, on highlighting
Therefore, a primary goal of an EAP
how users, by virtue of their assigned
instructor is to highlight this connection in
sometimes sees the world of the source text
roles, can manipulate and be manipulated
his/her syllabus and implement it in his/her
by others through the use of language.
lectures on a regular base.
How does it differ from traditional DA (Discourse
means that the translator has the freedom to manipulate the source text in a way that
Can you suggest from your own teaching
grammar tools like transitivity, modality and
experience, what materials or activities
cohesion. DA also highlights the structure of
have been useful to students in raising
beliefs. But this, in my opinion, is wrong as
discourse, the roles of participants, setting
their awareness of CDA?
I mentioned earlier the translator would do
and topic.
In one of my translation courses, I use many
his/her best to keep the spirit of the original
activities regarding translating texts. For
intact.
What sparked your interest in this area?
instance, I ask my students to translate an
Politics is the first reason behind my interest
excerpt from English into Arabic (or vice
Hence, we, as translation course instructors,
in this area. In a sense, it’s an area where
versa) and one of the questions I keep
one can find all CDA tools at work; i.e.
requesting is that they should highlight the
control, power and ideology can play a
pragmatic problems that they would face in
major role in highlighting how to implicitly
translation and whether or not the ideologies
or indirectly dominate and persuade others
and structures of the original were kept
with your viewpoint.
intact (or transferred as is) in the target
and of their job as translators to transfer
Political discourse is one of the best areas
text (pragmatic equivalence or transfer). I
the message of the original into the target
to examine power in language. Additionally,
also give a core course called Introduction
text (semantic, functional and pragmatic
it is the area most clearly affected by the
to Linguistics II. Two of the most important
equivalence should be stressed).
ideas and ideologies of a particular group
chapters given are Discourse Analysis and Pragmatics. In both topics I give them
In conclusion, in translation, texts of a
or society. Hence, it unfolds power relations and the relation between the writer and his
examples that show this connection between
readers.
CDA tools and real life. For instance, they
As an evolving area of research and
to figure out CDA tools like presupposition,
study,
fits his own world-views and system of
should make students aware of the fact that the translation process encompasses that the student should have awareness of CDA tools in the original text and should have awareness of the culture of the source text
persuasive purpose marked by a number of linguistic features associated with power, status and solidarity should be taken into consideration. Students should know that these linguistic features that mark power
teachers
politeness strategies, cooperative principle,
introduce CDA into their teaching? And
etc. that show persuasion, ideology, power
and status relations in texts may vary across
how can teachers use/introduce CDA
at work.
languages. The translator, as both receiver
should
Linguistics
and producer of text, has the double duty
into their Linguistics courses? Of course CDA should be introduced into
How might CDA ideas and techniques
of perceiving the meaning potential of
our linguistics courses as it touches on all
be used in the teaching of Translation Studies?
particular choices within the cultural and
areas of life. CDA can be used to enhance students’ critical thinking. For instance,
Translation is ‘culture bound’. It is a
students should always be encouraged to
manifestation of the clash between two
analyze any piece of language critically,
cultures. Every community has its own set
trying to connect it to social context. They
of norms and values and world-views and
should take into consideration, for instance,
classification systems which at times will
that excessive use of nominalizations,
differ from those of the target culture, and
cultural differences between the Source
linguistic community of the source text and relaying that same potential, by suitable linguistic means, to a target readership. Sometimes he would transfer and preserve the structure of the original but due to
passives, transitive verbs in a certain text
coincide with them at other times.
Text (ST) and the Target Text (TT) he may
should be always interpreted in relation to
The translator has the dual job of keeping
be unable to perform the task.
CDA is concerned with the inequality of power, as
CDA tools. They should be always able to
the message of the original and transferring
language both encodes and enforces power differences.
answer a question like ‹how, in a certain text,
the message as it is to the target text (this is
For critical discourse analysts, language
can a writer use language as an instrument
called pragmatic equivalence or pragmatic
to manipulate readers’ minds’?
transfer) and trying to make a balance
is an
ability to control or be controlled by virtue of their roles and positions, and the power relationships obtaining between them. CDA attempts to uncover linguistic manipulation and to reveal the extent to which language shapes ideological and social identities, struggles and problems, and is also shaped by all of these. TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
to different degrees. And of course this
Analysis) as a separate area of study?
expression of the ideology/ideologies of its users, their
66
through his/her own perspectives/ beliefs
and spoken texts using Halliday’s functional
can analyze a presidential speech trying
What is CDA (Critical Discourse Analysis) and
TRANSLATION CONNECT
CDA differs from traditional DA in the fact
Traditional DA deals with analysis of written
This Q & A article with Dr. Wegdan Khalifa, a translation and Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) expert, hopes to advocate the value of Critical Discourse Analysis and how it can enhance both English for Academic Purposes (EAP) and Linguistics courses in tertiary educational institutes.
Interviews
between the culture of the original and his/
By: Ms. Lee McCallum
Could CDA be exploited on more general
her own culture. The translator can distort
EAP (English for Academic Purposes)
and manipulate reality, because he is under
courses and what ideologies could be
the pressure of a series of constraints
Lecturer, PSU English
explored on EAP courses?
(ideological and economic), typical of the
Department
I think CDA can be exploited on most
culture to which he belongs.
EAP courses as it’s a must to connect
According to Hatim and Mason (1997), the
2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a
67
TRANSLATION CONNECT
Ms. Rana K. Khattab
T
years of working with the Community Service
the Youth, Exchange and Study Program
to highlight the accomplishments
Center, alongside Ms. Alaa Almeshaan, Ms.
(YES) –which allowed young Saudi high-
of
Translation
Amena Shahid and Ms. Sara Alshawi. They
school students to go on a scholarship
Department’s successful graduates.
gave me the opportunity to discover the
to the U.S. I attended two intercultural
article
PSU
leader within me by becoming involved with
conferences in Washington, which were
experiences, career, and advice for current
many major events, such as: Career Expo
life-changing events for me. In May of 2013,
students of an alumnus. Ms. Rana K.
and the “Teaching and Learning as Tools of
I moved to Brussels, Belgium where my
Khattab, class of 2012, discusses how she
Progress in Higher Education Conference”. I
husband works. I kept close contact with
has grown personally and professionally as
worked closely with extraordinary colleagues
many translation clients in Saudi, to whom I
a result of her PSU student experience.
of many other PSU programs; students who
offered my freelance services before. Then
inspired me on many levels.
I got introduced to the Center for Innovative
some
of
touches
PSU upon
the
When did you attend PSU and what degree program did you graduate in? I started attending PSU in 2007 and received my degree from the Translation program in August 2012. How was your experience overall at PSU? My PSU experience was rich in all aspects. I look back at it proudly. I made friends for life
What are they doing now?
TRANSLATION CONNECT
he Alumni Spotlight is designed
This
P S U Translation Alumni
Interviews
and learned a lot inside and outside classes. A big wide smile draws itself on my face whenever someone mentions PSU, and I say, “Yes—I am and will always be a proud PSU alumni.” Q3: Were you a member of any groups or clubs? If so, how did this enrich your experience as a student? I was a member of many clubs actually! They include Toastmasters, German, and Translation Club, as well as an official
Government in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. They Q4: Did you take any courses with
requested some translation, and fortunately
memorable faculty members?
liked the quality of my work, and here I am
It would not be fair to say that only some
working with their great professional team
of my courses were memorable, because
from a distance.
I remember each and every one of my teachers and I certainly enjoyed all their
Q6: How has your education at PSU
classes!
prepared you for your current position? I am pretty lucky to have a position that
Q5: What are you doing now and how did
corresponds directly to my degree. Most
you find your current job?
translators I know are not working in their
After I spent my seven months COOP at
field, but they are happy with their diverse
Western Studies Institute, I signed a contract
career path. That’s one of the bright sides
with the institute as an “Exchange Programs
of obtaining a translation degree; it opens
Coordinator” where I was responsible for
up a whole wide spectrum for us to choose
Translators are underpaid and underestimated. The work of a translator is not appreciated due to many reasons
member of the Community Service and Continuing Education Center. I also used to help out with the Student Affairs Office’s activities during my spare time. One benefit I received from these activities was the fact that they are a nice highlight on my resume. In every job interview, I was asked about them. In Toastmasters, I developed many skills (public speaking, impromptu tasks, being an event hostess, punctuality). Toastmasters club members are the elite of the PSU
Spotlight on Alumni:
Ms. Rana K. Khattab
students for sure, they were full of energy and motivation toward changing things for the better. Unfortunately, I did not get the chance to work a lot in the Translation Unit, although I was one of the students who pushed to have it in our department. Moreover, I’m most thankful to the 2 full
68
TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a
69
TRANSLATION CONNECT
Interviews
Ms. Rana K. Khattab
Dr. Mostafa Ismail
what mostly suits us. Being trained in
time I invest in my translation. My answer
are particularly poor, unfortunately. The
working under pressure and having to hand
is always as this: If you think the job is that
English ones are great!
in assignments on time also helped me with
easy, then why do you hire me?
meeting deadlines. Although now I have a
In my work, I also face confusion when it
new challenge; my baby Maya!
comes to the style I write in. It is inevitable
In my previous job as a coordinator, I used
that the translator’s writing or speaking style
a lot of the skills I learned in organizing
will appear in the target text. This doesn’t
I am learning Dutch and French since they
events, marketing and public speaking.
always match the expectations of the
are the spoken languages where I live
I only wish we had more focus on some
client. It’s tough to hear that although your
currently (Belgium). I also work with some
translation fields that our courses did not
translation mirrors perfectly the source text,
Arabic learners here to enhance their Arabic.
short period. For example, Media and Legal Translation were both introduced in one course. And after working in both fields, I feel it’s definitely not sufficient. I believe they are two huge fields of translation that they need their own unique courses. Q7: What do you think are the most pertinent issues in translation today and how does your current work touch upon them? And alternatively, if you are not working as a translator, what translation skills do you utilize in your everyday work? Where to begin! Let me highlight first that when I speak about the translation problems, I speak about the languages I work in: Arabic and English. I expect that each context has its own issues. First of all: Translators are underpaid and underestimated. The work of a translator is not appreciated due to many reasons. First and foremost is a lack of awareness of what this job entails. Some clients think they can delegate the job to a machine and it will do it. I have had freelance clients who would bargain with me on the price and
,,
cover—or rather did cover but for a very
In Saudi you can actually secure a job and find new opportunities. And as a translator, you are welcome by many employers because of your language abilities.
,,
we don’t approve the style you incorporate.
Q9: What academic and career advice
students? College years can be much more than classes and assignments. I used to be excited to present my term projects. I would consider it a dear party that I am planning.
My advice is to enjoy it! Also,
enjoy volunteering and engaging in diverse activities. They will come in handy to stand out in the work force. As for career, I would like to remind my fellow female translators that they are in a thriving place to work; Saudi Arabia. It is a tough economy everywhere, but in Saudi you can actually secure a job and find new
welcome by many employers because of
think I speak here for many other working
your language abilities.
fields. You will need to make up your own
Eventually, if you choose to sit home and
dedicated to translators. The Arabic ones
dedicate yourself to your family, you will still use your skills. And it will be a great satisfying job! Q10: Where do you see yourself in 5 years? I have a special passion towards Education
By: Ms. Renee Tolson
and curriculum management. I dream
Lecturer, PSU English
ways of teaching and learning. I see myself
Department
obtaining a Master’s degree in Education
of having the opportunity to improve our
Management
communicating
languages I am learning now.
70
TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
academic and 16 years there working in industrial positions
would you give to current translation
opportunities. And as a translator, you are
of many groups and pages online that are
A PSU translation-accredited professor of Engineering
currently working on?
authentic up-to-date Arabic resources; I
terminology in your field. I am a member
TRANSLATION CONNECT
Q8: What are some work projects you are
Another pressing issue is the scarcity of
glossary in order to keep up with the new
Interviews
in
the
Translation Connect has had the pleasure of interviewing one of the most active professors at the College of Engineering at Prince Sultan University, Dr. Mostafa Ismail. Dr. Ismail is an accredited translator and has kindly agreed to share with us his life journey including engineering and translation.
2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a
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TRANSLATION CONNECT
Interviews
Dr. Mostafa Ismail
At the beginning, we would like to know
English; it is this in fact that inspired me to
about yourself.
delve into translation.
My name is Mostafa Ismail, Civil Engineer
Interviews
Dr. Mostafa Ismail
USA), Canadian Geotechnical Journal, etc.
TRANSLATION CONNECT
to achieve?
the language pair, I believe. I see this in
Improve my teachings style to cater for all
myself; over time, my writing has become
a translator?
Can you tell us about the nature and type
students and arrive at the magic recipe
more
feature of the Quran).
What is your definition of translation and
succinct
and
focused
(amazing
by profession. I obtained my undergraduate
Tell us please about the translation
Translation is the bridge over which people
of translation that you have undertaken
that suits Arab students. The climax of my
degree from Egypt and taught in Egypt,
authority that you got your certification
of different tongues ride to see, hear and
in the context of your work?
ambitions though is to memorise Quran
Kuwait and Australia. I obtained my PhD
from.
communicate with each other. The translator
Ironically, I have not translated works
before I die.
from Australia in 2000; after graduation, I
Funnily enough, it was one week before
is a language and culture messenger who
directly associated with my discipline of
spent 16 years there working in academic
my final PhD exam that I decided to sit
needs technical, ethical and cultural skills to
geotechnical engineering. But I translated
What are the aspirations you wish to
it every now and then. My hobby is writing
and industrial positions before joining PSU
the accreditation exam for professional
convey the correct message.
numerous documents in geology, material
pursue in the field of translation?
articles and short stories in Arabic. And I
in the fall of 2014.
translators and interpreters (venting the
academic career? Currently I am Assistant Professor at PSU, affiliated with the Department of Engineering
Management,
College
of
Engineering. My academic qualifications include Bachelor, Master and PhD degrees, all in civil engineering. My specific field is geotechnical engineering, which covers anything built on or into the ground, including residential buildings, dams, bridges and underground constructions, such as tunnels and excavations. In other words, my job is to ensure that any building can transfer its loads to the ground safely and without excessive movement of the structure. I have a very broad experience in teaching, research and consultancy.
I have been
,,
Can you tell us about your studies and
I am always thrilled by the scientific notion and gestures in Quran, and this has driven me to seek knowledge and improve myself on a regular basis (and the more I learn the more you realize I do not
,,
know).
The big child inside me adores football. I play
science, medicine, inventions and patents,
Translation of a textbook on Materials
wish your translation department uses one
Tell us about your work in the translation
technical catalogues, etc.
Science.
of my stories to be tried by your students.
field.
my next big thing would be translation of
I have been doing professional translation
a much needed and much sought after
What
and interpretation works since 2000, for
textbook that can benefit Arab students and
translators, in your opinion?
individuals, companies, institutes, courts
enrich the Arabic database.
Low rates, lack of training on technology
Can you tell us a funny story you
and lack of appreciation from communities
encountered while translating?
and states.
I was translating once in one of the
and governmental organizations.
I am hoping
I have
You may even publish the outcomes in your are
the
problems
faced
by
Translation Connect.
translated books, manuals, educational
What are the sources of knowledge
documents, pamphlets and lots of technical
that have had the greatest impact
publications. But I should admit I am very
in the formation of your intellectual
What
machine
operating in Egypt. The court invited the
selective as to what I pick for translation;
background?
translation, and whether computer can
chair of the authority regulating mining
enjoyment is my driver in this business. I
The simple answer is “Quran”.
replace humans in this field?
works in Egypt, but also invited me to
become even more selective in interpreting
fortunate (but equally accountable for) that
I am not an advocate of machine translation,
translate for him in case his English was not
jobs. The thing I am proud of the most is
I receive the language of Quran in a manner
even as a first pass. The human element
that good. When the guy asked about my
an educational program I translated from
that just penetrates my skin, with its content,
should always drive the translation process
background and I told him I teach at one of
English into Arabic for raising and educating
eloquence, style and fabric. You can get the
from A to Z.
the reputable universities in Perth, he kept
children.
I am so
This was a comprehensive
experience of the whole world from Quran,
program delivered in the form of a series of
you can understand the inner self from
workshops for parents and people working
Quran, you can understand people, their
in education.
strength and weakness from Quran, etc. It
fortunate to work in the industry in Australia
study stress perhaps). The authority that
Now I do not do translation, but assist
is Quran that has formed my background,
in a highly specialized area of offshore
offers this exam and accreditation is called
selectively in editing and proof reading
convictions, ambitions and reality. From this
geomechanics, a discipline concerned with
NAATI (National Australian Accreditation
of technical documents in a variety of
point I realized that a Muslim should always
foundations of offshore structures such as
for Translators and Interpreters), and this
disciplines (another passion I have).
aim for the summit of everything within his
oil platforms and pipelines.
accreditation covers work in Australia and New Zealand and their embassies overseas.
What are the hobbies you still practice?
What are the important periodicals you
Australian courts for a mining company do
you
think
of
rebuking me for a while before the trial that
I am not an advocate of machine translation, even as a first pass. The human element should always drive the translation process from A to Z.
means, and should exhaust his means
What is the importance of experience and
I am doing translation while I am a doctor!
when he seeks knowledge or perform a
expertise in developing the performance
Funny, but reflects unhealthy attitude.
How and why did you enter the world of
You can only practise the profession if you
published in?
task. I am always thrilled by the scientific
of the translator and his abilities?
translation?
are NAATI accredited. The big surprise to
I have not published in translation, but I
notion and gestures in Quran, and this has
Translation is strongly linked to culture and
I had passion to the Arabic language since
me was that I passed the NAATI exam from
have a strong publication record in the
driven me to seek knowledge and improve
human experience. I believe translation
my childhood, and I always get thrilled by
first time (I was told later the rate of success
field of engineering. And this covers many
myself on a regular basis (and the more I
skills
its beauty and brilliance when I read Quran.
is less than 30%!). Alternative to this exam
prestigious
learn the more you realize I do not know).
statements also develop with experience.
By: Ms. Mona Al-Yemni
This
to
is to attend a 2-year course or to have basic
For
Developing your style as a translator is a
Research & Translation
English as I grew older. I realised I am skilled
qualification in translation or interpretation
Geotechnique (UK), and Geotechnical and
What are the projects that you dream to
testimony to your own development as an
at writing in Arabic and also enjoy writing in
from a recognized institute.
Geoenvironemntal
accomplish and the ambitions you seek
individual and you indulge in the culture of
passion
72
apparently
transpired
TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
journals
example
I
plus
have
conferences.
publications
Engineering
in
(ASCE,
and
formulation
of
words
and
Center, PSU
2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a
73
,,
Experience
After many hours of university study, each PSU student ends her college career with a 7-month intensive internship in her field of study. This opportunity gives PSU students a competitive edge and prepares them for the workforce. As a regular feature of Translation Connect, “The CO-OP Experience” provides readers with a glimpse into this didactic experience.
,,
By: Ms. Tasneem Prue Director, PSU English Preparatory Year Program
TRANSLATION CONNECT
Interviews
Shaden Al Suhaim
In this issue, PSU student Shaden Al
• Legal translation such as translating a
Suhaim highlights her enlightening CO-OP
6-page social media policy for the company.
Experience with the FullBridge Program
• Handling Mawhiba’s social networks and
and King Abdulaziz and His Companions
many more tasks.
Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity-
My responsibilities fluctuated. Sometimes,
“Mawhiba” as a translation trainee in the
I found myself staring at the computer
Portal Department.
dealing with so many tasks for 6 hours
Date of Co-op Experience: FullBridge:
straight (because I didn’t want to give a bad
June 8-July 3 2014 / Mawhiba: September
impression by missing a deadline). Also,
7-February 19, 2014
some tasks just came up all of a sudden
Shaden Al Suhaim
website. The new director asked me about
7-month training.
my previous translation work and stated
First of all, before my training at Mawhiba,
that I needed to ask for the permission
I had the privilege of enrolling in a 1-month
from the original writers before publishing
program offered by Prince Sultan University
in order to avoid any legal issues that could
called The FullBridge program. Afterwards,
come up from such a small article. That’s
I spent the rest of my CO-OP
an experience every translator should be
training
at Mawhiba. The responsibilities of the
aware of!
FullBridge Program differed from my area of training. The FullBridge Program offers
Describe your workspace.
business fundamentals (out of my comfort
I would say that it allowed for maintaining
zone!) while Mawhiba’s work revolved
a personal space, which is a priority to any
around translation and other office work.
person who sits there for 6 hours!
The FullBridge Program had a lot of tasks to
The space was good. The office was
be done in groups. I worked with 4 people
great. The department I worked in was not
from different majors. It was very challenging
overloaded with dozens of workers, which
to get the new information and apply it
was really a great thing for me. There were
immediately, especially as a non-business
a total of 8 people, including myself, in my
student. Most of the time, I dealt with new
department.
information such as financial statements, business case studies, and even creating a
What were your regular working hours?
new product to be sold for Starbucks!
Did you have to ever work late or on the
I had to use numbers to support everything,
weekends?
not just my imagination, and not because ‹I
6 hours. I never needed to work overtime or
think it would sell!›
on the weekends. Once I left work every day,
Now, on to Mawhiba. Firstly, I would like
caught my attention as I, myself, was actually learning while translating. About the tasks I enjoyed the least, looking for events to be translated. This could be time consuming sometimes. I also dislike editing after others. It is as if you are forced to adopt a certain style that is not necessarily wrong but could be better, so you have to stick with it. What specific skills and knowledge did you gain during your co-op? FullBridge: Some of the basic fundamentals in business & time management (if you are one minute late, that is a HUGE problem!) Mawhiba: Event organization & copyright permissions.
Sometimes, I found
How
myself staring at the
curricular activities, etc.
students in this experience. However, I
There was a specialized course in legal
strongly vote for an introductory course in
translation. Had I not learned the dos and
business for the non-business students.
for 6 hours straight
don’ts in that field, I would have been totally
It could even be a one-week course just
lost in the tasks given to me by Mawhiba.
to provide basic information so that non-
(because I didn’t
Also, I learned some major concepts in
business majors can stand on a common
want
translation which are: translation by omission
ground with the business major students.
& translation by addition. Sometimes I feel
computer
dealing
with so many tasks
to
give
a
at
PSU
prepare you for your internship?
did
your
experience
Talk
to share regarding the FullBridge program.
out that «translator» is a title that usually
about specific courses, projects, extra-
It is really wonderful to include non-business
does not stand by itself. You are not hired
career plans?
sense at all. In fact, they would confuse not
themselves
clarify to the target audience. The same goes
experience?
Nations, embassies, and universities are on
for the translation by addition technique. At
Pay close attention to their specialized
the top of my list of career plans.
times, I feel the need to add a sentence or
translation courses for they will be the guide
two to clarify an idea that is not so familiar in
during the co-op, whether in a hospital
our culture, or simply find an equivalent quote
(medical), a company (legal), a university
in meaning that would close the gap.
(academic), etc. The co-op could even
it in Arabic. I also proofread and sometimes
about work which is a plus in my book!
wrote the final draft for our assignments. Although all 5 of us were from different degree majors, marketing and finance majors will indeed have the upper hand in
had to deal with translating articles in that
details.
this kind of a program.
domain. Secondly, my tasks involved the
for
a
translation
co-op
include two or more types of translation What else can PSU include in the student
within the same field. And, trust me; you will
experience that will make the translation
never know where you will end up! Co-Op
In the FullBridge program, yes I was part of
co-op experience a better experience?
students also bear upon their shoulders the
translation of:
a team of 5 people. In Mawhiba, I was not a
PSU is already doing a great job. The Co-Op
university,s reputation; don’t tarnish it by
• Articles in the field of creativity, innovation,
part of a team.
months could be tough and challenging that
underestimating the specialized translation
and giftedness.
Actually, the FullBridge program is designed
you need to give it your all to reach levels you
courses offered at PSU.
• Events and info graphics in the field
for students to play all types of roles. As a
of:
Did you have a mentor or anyone who you could go to for questions or advice? Yes, we had 2 coaches in the FullBridge program, and I had 2 supervisors in Mawhiba.
never imagined you actually could. Changes
innovation,
giftedness,
translator, when my group required further
are not only in job experience/academic
After your co-op experience, do you have
energy,
technology,
explanation about the meaning of a certain
What tasks did you enjoy the most? What
level, but also in your personality.
a greater desire to pursue a career in
concept, I used my translation skills to explain
tasks did you enjoy the least?
TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
What are your future educational and
missing a deadline)
work alone? If part of a team, give some
76
but who knows?
What can PSU students do to prepare
Were you part of a team or did you mainly
discovery, space, and science.
now, I am thinking of continuing my studies,
translated literally to Arabic would make no
giftedness». Therefore, as a translator, I
nanotechnology,
dealing with several other tasks as well. For
bad impression by
that Mawhiba literally translates to «talent/
creativity,
just for translation, as you will find yourself
inclined to omit some examples that when
I never had to worry myself about anything to note to my fellow non-Arabic speakers
TRANSLATION CONNECT
I enjoyed translating some articles that
such as when Mawhiba moved to a new Describe your experience during the
Interviews
translation? Explain. I have a one concern though that I would love
I aim to continue my master,s degree first. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, The United
I aim to continue my master’s degree first. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, The United Nations, embassies, and universities are on the top of my list of career plans.
To be honest, from my experience, I found
2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a
77
TRANSLATION CONNECT
Interviews
Ms. Asma Al-Otaibi
Ms. Malikah Sisay
Interviews
TRANSLATION CONNECT
The RTC former Co-Op Trainee Ms. Asma Al-Otaibi
Could you please introduce yourself?
the entire translation process. For example,
be using when they learn these tools?
I’m a passionate translator and technology
recycling and reusing previous translations
They will use their critical thinking skills.
enthusiast. I graduated from Princess
will be very helpful. They will need it when
Nourah University. I translated for KSU
they undertake large projects or have to
First, they have to evaluate every tool and
Health Awareness Research Chair and for
meet tight deadlines. Another example,
different charity organizations. Currently,
managing terminology in specialized fields
I’m teaching Computer Assisted Translation
in one program will help students to focus
Course and Selected Texts at PNU.
on creative aspects of translation and be
will learn how to adjust their expectations since computers will never have minds! Last but not least they will become very patient and be able to handle and solve different
consistent with using terms.
problems.
What part do you have interest in? I’m genuinely interested in using different
What materials or activities have been
technology tools to facilitate translation
useful to students for raising their
activities especially terminology management
awareness in translation?
systems and translation environment tools.
I
think
terminology
search
tools
are
enormously useful for them. Moreover, the Could the use of these programs be
killing process of searching for the right
exploited on more general translation
equivalent will be over and translators will
courses?
be able to save effort and time.
Finally what do you think students should know
about
translation
technology
related tools?
The President of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Association of Language Teachers speaks to «Translation Connect»
I recommend them to ask themselves how can these tools help us? Students have to face the fact that technology will change the nature of the translation tasks
Definitely! If we teach our students how to use these incredibly useful tools, they will change
use it when they need it only. Also, they
What skills or techniques students would
forever!
By: Ms. Tasneem Prue
Professional website: www.asmatech.biz
Director, PSU English Preparatory Year Program
By: Dr. Wegdan Khalifah Assistant Professor, PSU English Department
78
TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
KSAALT- The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Association of Language Teachers is a budding organization that plays an active role in improving language teaching in Saudi Arabia. Translation Connect interviewed the newly elected KSAALT president, Ms. Malikah Sisay, to find out more about this growing association.
2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a
79
TRANSLATION CONNECT
Interviews
Ms. Malikah Sisay
Ms. Malikah Sisay
Association of Teachers of English as a
for its members by providing workshops,
Foreign Language).
seminars, and lectures. We get speakers
From that time, KSAALT has grown with
from inside and outside the Kingdom.
• Language and Empowerment
for KSAALT? •
Interviews
TRANSLATION CONNECT
• Head planning efforts for the organization
Nationalization—this
will
allow
the
• Promote and create a positive environment
How many members do you currently
Executive Council to focus on strategic
• Promote professional development
have?
expansion
•
been
Provide some general details about your
organization at a national level.
conferences
international and national speakers since
undertaken to help KSAALT achieve its
current membership (i.e. secondary/
• More interactive—new website launch in
• Seek further sponsorship for events
2008 and annual mini conferences since
objective/mission?
college level educators? From which
December and hopefully more social media
• Write the opening letter for all conference
2009.
We have established several chapters
fields, etc. )
access and more communication between
programs and KSAALT Quarterly newsletter
KSAALT has also added chapters in
around the Kingdom to help connect
Jeddah, Riyadh, Yanbu, and Abha along
teachers Kingdom-wide. KSAALT has added
with the original Khobar chapter itself. The
chapters in Jeddah, Riyadh, Yanbu, and
Please provide a brief history of KSAALT
annual conferences have been held in
Abha along with the original Khobar chapter
in the Kingdom.
Khobar since May 2008 with the exception
itself. The annual conferences have been
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Association of
of two conferences at chapters in Jeddah
held in Khobar since May 2008 with the
Language Teachers (KSAALT) was formed in
(2012) and Riyadh (2014). In May 2014, for
exception of two conferences at chapters in
2006 with the vision of connecting language
the first time, an Executive Council Officer
Jeddah (2012) and Riyadh (2014). In May
educators from across the Kingdom in
from Yanbu Chapter, Dr. Salem Eletani, was
2014, for the first time, an Executive Council
a professional service organization that
elected as Vice President expanding the
Officer from Yanbu Chapter, Dr. Salem
developed English language educators in
original vision of KSAALT to a nationwide
Eletani, was elected as Vice-President
all areas of teaching/learning, service, and
KSAALT currently has over 500 members
and within chapters—to keep members fully
permission from former KSAALT Publications
organization for language teachers across
expanding the original vision of KSAALT
research while providing a forum to network
from around the Kingdom. Our members are
involved and aware of the opportunities in
Editor David Berry’s article: Introducing
the country.
to a nationwide organization for language
and a platform to develop.
from K-12 schools, tertiary level, language
our field.
KSAALT—Helping
KSAALT could
teachers across the country. KSAALT is also
institutes, ministry of education, etc.
• Speaker variety—speakers from around
Saudi Arabia, ALC Newseltter-March 2013
annual
conferences
hundred
attracting
participants
not
and
have
several renowned
started
and
What
major
initiatives
have
and
improvement
of
the
for its members by providing workshops,
In addition to our website http://www.ksaalt.
from inside and outside the Kingdom.
org/, we are on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram *The history of KSAALT is adapted with
active members, officers, and chapters, and
affiliate out of United Arab Emirates,
the supporting institutions and sponsors
the English language educator Philline
What
such as Effat University (Jeddah) and Prince
Deraney spoke with John Schmidt from
has
membership?
documents
Sultan University (Riyadh).
development sessions and conferences?
To become a member of KSAALT, an
• New rate schedule—to better serve the
• Student Centered Learning and Techniques
individual must fill out a membership form,
members’ needs and encourage long-term
• Effective Teaching in the EFL Classroom
sign it, and pay the membership fee. Some
membership—we have new corporate rates
mission?
• How to Engage and Motivate Students
benefits of KSAALT are:
for a minimum of 10 people from the same
The main mission of the organization is to
• Best Practices in ELT
a group of language educators, mostly from
• free monthly professional development
organization.
connect those interested in supporting and
•
Prince Mohammad University in Khobar,
advancing language instruction.
Learners in Saudi Arabia
our international conference in May;
How long have you been president of
• Infusing Critical Thinking in the EFL
• reduced rates for the annual and mini
KSAALT and what is your specific role/
Explain what the organization does to
Classroom
conferences;
function?
improve the quality of English language
• EFL Innovations in the Classroom
• access to our newsletter and opportunity
I have been president for eight months. It is
teaching in the Kingdom.
• Diversity in the Classroom: Guiding
to submit for our refereed academic journal;
my job to organize and oversee the general
KSAALT provides professional development
Successful Teaching
• networking with colleagues in the field from
co-ordination of KSAALT affairs. I represent
all over the Kingdom;
KSAALT to all external bodies. Some of my
• membership in a service organization for
duties are:
your CV, and
• Promote KSAALT and work in the
• receiving updates on job opportunities
organization’s best interest
and the latest news in the field and from our
• Oversee and guide the Executive Council,
fellow affiliates.
calling its meetings and extraordinary
TESOL International about the need for a professional development and service association for English language educators in Saudi Arabia. Based on this discussion,
What
is
KSAALT’s
objective
and
started to meet in fall 2006 about starting a language teacher organization. The purpose and mission, the association name, the logo, possible international affiliations, and first meetings were planned in this founding
an affiliate of TESOL and IATEFL.
addressed
Students’
themes
in
Identities
its
KSAALT
professional
and
Language
stage. From there, KSAALT was born. KSAALT had its first monthly meeting in February 2007 and membership grew quickly with about 58 people attending the April 2007 meeting. In December 2007, just over a year after it was founded, KSAALT became the 100th affiliate of TESOL International and in 2009, KSAALT became an
associate
80
of
IATEFL
(International
TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Association of Language Teachers (KSAALT) was formed in 2006 with the vision of connecting language educators from across the Kingdom in a professional service organization
annual
KSAALT?
seminars, and lectures. We get speakers
sustained without the support of its founders,
some
and
How can readers find out more about
international
are
mini
general meeting
KSAALT provides professional development
Conference,
TESOL
KSAALT’s
• Oversee venue and organization for each
In spring 2006 at the TESOL Arabia a
Open
Teachers
Bloom
in
the Kingdom and webinars are planned.
at http://newsmanager.commpartners.com/
How can one become a member of
• Bylaws—cement the foundation of the
tesolalc/textonly/20137/11-03-.html
KSAALT?
organization
What are the benefits of
with
stronger
organization
events; access to international speakers at
We have established several chapters around the Kingdom to help connect teachers Kingdomwide. KSAALT has added chapters in Jeddah, Riyadh, Yanbu, and Abha along with the original Khobar chapter itself
meetings What are some of the future plans/goals
• Head the Annual General Meeting
2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a
81
TRANSLATION CONNECT
Interviews
Ms. Asma Al-Otaibi
Ms. Marteen Blue
teaching and for fun)?
Interviews
TRANSLATION CONNECT
acclimation.
Since moving to South Korea, I have begun an amazing life of travel. I have
When did you realize English teaching
traveled to Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand,
had become a career for you?
the Philippines, Indonesia, Taiwan, China,
Becoming an educator has always been
Japan, all of Central America, Panama, Columbia, Paris, Amsterdam, Qatar, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia. I have only taught in the States, South Korea, and now Saudi Arabia. Being away from home is very difficult for me because I am so close to my family. My first year in S. Korea was the hardest, especially the holidays. What was it like to live abroad for the first
Cross-Cultural Challenges
time? My experience abroad for the first time was
a career goal of mine. After obtaining my degrees and certifications in education, I taught in America for 4 years. Initially, I was very hesitant about leaving an educational system and a country that I was familiar with, to move somewhere that was completely unfamiliar. However, once I began teaching in Korea and adjusted to my new life, I knew that teaching abroad was the best career choice for me.
great. I learned so much! I evolved and met people from all over the world, many
How has travel changed you as a person?
of whom I keep in contact with today. That
We are conditioned to go to school, work,
experience encouraged me to travel more
retire, and somewhere between, we should
and learn about other countries and cultures.
find time for ourselves (i.e. vacation, start a
In what ways are things in Saudi Arabia
family, partake in a hobby). That isn’t living!
as you expected and in what ways are
That’s existing! Travel has literally changed
they different?
my perspective and approach in regards to
Besides the heat, I didn’t arrive in Saudi with any expectations. I chose to disregard
and Experiences
western media’s information and obtain knowledge
and
understanding
through
experience alone. What were your first impressions of Saudi Arabia? My first impression was “Wow! It’s not as hot as I expected.” When my husband and I first
life. I value how my time is utilized now, and I no longer share the same national views and concerns; I share the views and concerns of the world. I no longer depend on the media to educate/inform me about cultures or people; I’ve learned through my experiences. To continue this learning process, I usually plan a vacation to a country that I have yet to visit, as opposed to planning a trip within the U.S.
arrived, we were very welcomed by Saudis.
Living and working in a foreign country takes determination, flexibility, and an open mind—a process Ms. Marteen Blue knows all about. As
experiences as an English instructor have served as an asset in both her career and personal life.
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What advice would you give someone
their niqabs and families invited us to their
looking to travel the world to teach
Alabama, USA. I possess a bachelor’s
homes and treated us to dinner. These
English or to gain experience?
degree in Elementary Education and a
acts of kindness contributed greatly to our
Be wise in your decisions and planning.
One day, I decided that teaching in the
passion for teaching and travelling has given her education. She discusses how her cross-cultural
Women would smile noticeably through
My name is Marteen Blue and I’m from
master’s degree in Education Administration.
an English Instructor at King Saud University, her a unique perspective on culture, language, and
How did you get into teaching English?
Spotlight on Faculty:
Ms. Marteen Blue English Instructor at King Saud University
States wasn’t fulfilling anymore. I found myself dreading going to work and I decided it was time to make a change. So, I moved
By: Ms. Renee Tolson Lecturer, PSU English Department
to South Korea. Where have you traveled (both for
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Selections
Translation as Intercultural Communication
Translation as Intercultural Communication
The importance of translating political texts
By: Ms. Heba Ahmed English Department student,PSU
Selections
TRANSLATION CONNECT
The importance of translating political texts By: Ms. Mona Kanaan
Summary of a lecture by Dr. Marco Fiola
English Department student,PSU
Summary of a lecture by Professor Christina Schäffner
In order to be a translator or an interpreter, you need to have
gives a remarkable example of interpreters who have been
a linguistic knowledge of the target language. However,
involved in intercultural communication. It happened when
Dr.Marco Fiola does not believe in this statement as he
the interpreters succeeded to notify the judges of First Nation
thinks a translator should be aware of the cultural knowledge
Court in Canada of the territorial courts’ systems of justice.
as well as the linguistic knowledge. This leads to the term
The judges could comprehend that the system of those
intercultural communication which is the communication
courts are different at the cultural level. Therefore, language
between two different linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
does not identify the cultural differences, but the way people
Thus, there are plenty of differences between cultures and
use the language does.
societies despite the fact that we have more similarities than
At the end, Dr. Fiola emphasizes that a translator should
differences. So, translators should take an advantage of the
be immersed in the culture of the target language and try
cultural knowledge to improve the communication between
to show its beauty and harmony neutrally without being
two societies.
biased. It is the translator’s job to reduce miscommunication
Professional translators and interpreters are intercultural
between different cultures, so the linguistic knowledge by
communicators who can promote conversations in different
its own is not sufficient to be a professional translator or
translation and interpretation in these areas and examine
groups and contexts effectively, and no machine will be able
interpreter. Dr. Fiola concluded that cultural differences are
the relevant institutional contexts and ideological aspects.
introduce adaptations to transcripts. She is currently trying
to do this. Dr. Fiola adds that translators will work where
real, so translators need to have an efficient cultural and
In her studies, Prof. Schäffner compares the original text
to find more examples of particular features for translation
various cultures meet, so they need to open their minds
linguistic knowledge with open-mindedness to facilitate the
and the translated text and notes significant differences,
and interpreting in political texts.
to linguistic and cultural diversity. Additionally, Dr. Fiola
communication among cultures.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_kqaHbdNd88&list=PLfUYYbVYYRDP9KnmkEoaXlaZ6mouueFzo&index=10
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Christina Schäffner is a professor of translation studies
including omissions and additions. She employs a
at Aston University. She is interested in the translation of
combination text analysis with a sociological ethnographic
political texts and the role of translation for news production
methodology, including interviews, questionnaires and
and mass media. According to Schäffner, the areas of international politics and diplomacy involves great use of language and translation since not all politicians can speak different languages. It is thus very interesting to analyze
observation. She particularly focuses on examining transcripts of press conferences and political speeches. She points out that it is of extreme interest to explore how texts are translated differently, and also how governments
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyGGTdvUTso#t=84
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Selections
«My Beautiful Language Club»
General Information About Wikipedia Club
General Information About Wikipedia Club, Princess Noura University
Selections
3- https://ar.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/ريتشارد_هوغرت
23- http://goo.gl/YRGPte
4- https://ar.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/كون_منظور
24- http://goo.gl/cE9Q3H
5- https://ar.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/(_العمليات_المعلوماتيةIO)
25- http://goo.gl/MkRPPk
6- https://ar.wikipedia.org/wiki/اضطراب_الشخصية_السادية
26- http://goo.gl/Z48MOx
7- https://ar.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/حضارة_الصين
27- http://goo.gl/ZtaAji
8- https://ar.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/استنساخ_بشري
28- http://goo.gl/MvYOyV
9- https://ar.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/عصافير_داروين
29- http://goo.gl/QjGsNX
10- https://ar.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/بدلة_طيران 11- https://ar.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/)العرق_(التصنيف_البشري
30- http://goo.gl/BYO0km
12- https://ar.wikipedia.org/wiki/الحركة_االجتماعية
31- http://goo.gl/w2cNG0
13- https://ar.wikipedia.org/wiki/رياضة_الذاكرة
of each semester,
32- http://goo.gl/f2jh2w
14- https://ar.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/جامعة_لندن_للفنون
33- http://goo.gl/NSGiIj
15- https://ar.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/يوروبا_بارك
In
the
beginning
TRANSLATION CONNECT
Who Are We?
links:
Wikipedia Club is one of the clubs in College
Orientation link:
of Languages and Translation, Princess
watch?v=wirb7Ia8kSg).
we
Noura University.
Registration link: http://t.co/cIMPFFs8ox
than 100 students.
What Do We Do?
Description of the Club Location:
Lately,
We are a group of translation students
Inside the Club, there are a lot of chairs, a
of
dedicated to translate Wikipedia›s articles
long table, dictionaries and a comfortable
considerably
from and to Arabic. Our main purpose is to
couch that would make translators translate
because
enrich the Arabic content.
comfortably. Moreover, there are boards
achievements of the club.
Supervising Faculty Members:
that contain a lot of possible articles in
Goals:
1- Ms. Ghadah Bin Omairah, the Club
variety of fields which need to be translated,
1- Translate 100 articles each semester.
Founder
such as Culture and Art, Geography and
2- Enrich the Arabic content.
2- Ms. Noura Ahmad Albaiz, the Club
Places, Health and Fitness, History and
3- Improve translation skills of the members.
Supervisor
Events, Mathematics and Logic, People
4- Translate the world by translating about
Student Presidents
and Self, Philosophy and Thinking, Religion
different countries and regions of the world.
1- AbeerAbdulrahmanAlOshan, 2013
and Belief, Society and Social Sciences,
5- Provide suitable environment to practice
2- Alhanouf Turki Al-Saud, 2014
Technology and Sciences...etc.
translation.
3- Sarah HomoudAlsenidi, 2015
Furthermore, there is a poster that looks
Projects:
How Did We Start?
like a tree we call it Wiki Tree (picture is
In 2014, Wikipedia Club joined Wikipedia
After tweets, Ms. Ghada Bin Omairah,
attached). In the top of it, there is a phrase
Education Program in Amman.
the Cub Founder, read in Twitter from
that says; Help us reach our goal... 100
Achievements:
Mrs. Hamdan AlAjmi and Mrs. Maktoum
translated articles.
1- Translated more than 100 articles in two
As part of Prince Sultan University’s
The Club aims to serve Islam, teach
training sessions to non-native speakers
Al Maktoum about King Saud University’s
Translation Procedure:
semesters.
initiative to enrich the Arabic content in
*Upon translating the articles of their choice,
2- Trained a lot of students in order for them
commitment to enhancing the use of the
Arabic
train
as well as other sessions for Arabic-
Wikipedia. She highly liked the idea, so
the Club members send their translation to
to have translation skills
Arabic language, an Arabic language
people to appreciate the
beauty of the
speaking students. Meetings are also held
she decided to apply it in Princess Noura
the Club
[email protected] to
3- Alhanouf Al-Saud has been added as the
club named «My Beautiful Language
language, and engage its members in
to discuss the history of key figures in the
University. She contacted Mrs. Hamdan
be proofread and edited by our instructors
University’s Ambassador of Wikipedia.
Club,» was launched in 2010. The Club
reading
work and the biographies of prominent
(http://www.youtube.com/
accept the
more number
members of
has increased the
34- http://goo.gl/cvulj5
16- https://ar.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/غوتشي
great
35- http://goo.gl/qdScAL
17- https://ar.wikipedia.org/wiki/قهوة
36- http://goo.gl/IbYjgO
18- https://ar.wikipedia.org/wiki/مستخدم:Nout_Al-harbi
37- http://goo.gl/WQCJ3x
19- https://ar.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/شاي_عشبي 20- https://ar.wikipedia.org/wiki/مونتيروسو_آلماري
38- http://goo.gl/GQ8rz7
21- http://goo.gl/NSYGFS
39- http://goo.gl/v21FSM
22- http://goo.gl/HTYNwd
40- http://goo.gl/QTyHu5
Information about «My Beautiful Language Club» to
non-native
through
speakers,
interesting
literature
for further details. Mrs. Hamdan provided
and members that have the ability to edit.
4- More than 100 members each semester.
necessary support. After that, Ms. Omairah
*After that, we send it back again to the
5- Invitation to Amman to contribute in
General Sciences Department Faculty
figures. The Club also aims to enhance
received approval to launch the Club in 2011.
members so they upload it to Wikipedia with
Wikipedia Education Program.
Member. The Club comprises a group of
its members› accuracy in Arabic through
Mrs. Hamdan and her colleagues wrote an
the steps that we have sent to the members
Plans:
training
article about the initiative of Princess Noura
in the beginning of the semesters to upload/
1- Allow different colleges of PNU to register.
outstanding students including Alanoud
grammar and vocabulary. In addition, the
University in Wikipedia.
add Wiki articles.
2- Allow students from different universities
Aljamaa, Shoug Albarges, Serine Hijazi
to join the club.
السعودية
*We also activated a Twitter account to
3- Translate the world with its different
Registration:
motivate the members by tweeting the
countries and regions.
The Club welcomes the registration of new
articles that they translated under their
Samples of Translations:
students at the beginning of every new
names. Kindly, check the account: @Wiki_
1- https://ar.wikipedia.org/wiki/جراحة_عامة
semester.
Club.
2- https://ar.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/_فرق_التعليم
For more information, please check these
Members:
األساسي
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Lecturer, PSU General Sciences Department
at Prince Sultan University
Supervisor is Ms. Jamila Arnous, a
http://ar.wikipedia.org/wiki//مبادرات:ويكيبيديا
By: Ms. Jameela Arnous
and Nasreen Safi.
on
pronunciation,
spelling,
club focuses on explaining the principles of the Arabic language gradually through topics of daily life which allow the students
history of Islam and the Arabic language. Other events include poetry recitation and workshops on a variety of topics, such as «The Art of Influential Recitation,” “Common Mistakes in Writing Alhmzaa”, and “Communication Skills in Dialogue” If you are a PSU student wishing to join this Club, or if you are interested in inviting the
Translated by:
to communicate with native speakers
Club to participate in any event/exhibition
Ms. Mona Al-Yemni,
and express themselves appropriately in
that is relevant to the Arabic language,
various situations.
please feel free to contact Ms. Jameela
The Club holds diverse activities, including
Arnous at
[email protected].
Research & Translation Center, PSU
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A Twitter Account Just for You
A Twitter Account Just for You
@COLT_ies: A Twitter Account Just for You
Selections
TRANSLATION CONNECT
By: Ms.Asma Al-Otaibi Teaching Assistant, Princess Noura University
CPD after Graduation
With the rising importance of utilizing social media for information dissemination and exchange, Twitter has definitely taken a center stage in terms of ease of accessibility, use, speed, and popularity. There is definitely no shortage of academic, and specifically, translation and interpretation accounts to follow at Twitter, yet the need for an account which solely focuses on translation students’ and graduates’ needs in a Saudi context seemed to be lacking, thus came the motivation for creating @ COLT_ies in June, 2014. The account name was inspired by students studying at the College of Languages & Translation [COLT] in various Saudi universities. @COLT_ies tweets a variety of information, in which material quality outweighs quantity. The account currently consists of around 550 informative tweets, with a following of over 800 people. The tweets range from free online webinars and courses that any translation or even English major could enjoy and benefit from, to exceptional free resources such as relevant e-books and articles. There are several popular hashtags that are used to further ease the process of accessing certain information when the follower needs it. For instance, #colt_food4thought is used to draw the reader’s attention to the fact that the tweet could contain a significant academic read or topic suggestions for research purposes. Another popular hashtag among followers is #_أخطاء شائعة_في_الترجمة. These tweets showcase common mistakes made by Arab students translating into English and their correct renditions. In addition, #SpotTheError is an interactive hashtag in which the tweet provides the students with a flawed statement and encourages them to find and fix the error. In fact, @COLT_ies also includes tweets about English and translation job opportunities which are essential for graduates as well as local translation and interpretation seminar and symposium events. The account also welcomes any language questions that followers may have which are replied to efficiently, and retweets all useful follower mentions and suggestions.
Every graduate is excited about life after graduation. No more books to study, assignments to be done, and no more classes. Are they right? Hardly! After graduation the challenge begins for translators. They have to devise CPD plans to improve themselves. The word CPD plan which stands for Continuing Professional Development. So devising a CPD plan is a smart way to keep abreast of developments in the field. What should a CPD plan include? Improving source and target languages? Yes but that›s a must. An excellent CPD plan should include but not limited to the following: Improving subject Knowledge in a specific field: Choose one or two fields like medicine and science. You know you do not want to end up a jack of all trades. Problem solving skills: You can develop the following skills by challenging yourself to solve problems. Remember solving life’s problems counts! https://www.coursera.org/course/criticalthinking Analytical and critical reading skills: You can improve it by reading different articles and then write a review about each one.
system like T.manager.
theoreticaland practical materials related to
• Learning how to use different corpora.
translation
• Learning time-saving tools. I have written three
http://tarjamatmj.com/home/
posts on enormously useful tools which are
Thoughts on translation
published on my professional website.
http://thoughtsontranslation.com/ Technical translator
Attend Research forums and Seminars:
http://lukespear.co.uk/freelance-translation-sales-
PSU seminars are remarkably useful and you
handbook/
can check online webinars. Check the following
Mox›s blog
websites for online webinars. http://www.proz.com/ http://www.ecpdwebinars.co.uk/ https://alexandria-translation-resources.com/ webinars-for-translators-interpreters/ Improve habits and attitudes: Have different solutions when pointing out problems. Also, take into consideration every constructive criticism you hear. What most people are not aware of is the fact that they are able to change their habits. Check the following website for further information about changing habits. http://jamesclear.com/blog
http://mox.ingenierotraductor.com/ Diversify your work: You will lose nothing once you decide to learn different skills like digital publishing tools. Since you hold a degree in English or French language, you are well-suited for a number of professions. Try to engage in a sideline career. Internet skills: the ability to use internet to search for glossary, term banks, and to extract translation relevant materials is very essential. Cultural knowledge of source and target languages: Translators need to function as cultural consultants. So try to take intercultural communication classes
http://www.saylor.org/courses/phil102/
Read translators’ blogs and listen to their
and study materials of both cultures.
podcasts:
Finally try to find your path. What are you
Computer skills:
By reading for translators you will learn from their
genuinely interested in? Do you want to become
experience without making their mistakes.
a translator? Of course you can explore other
Advanced computer skills are a considerable bonus.
disciplines if you like. Remember your CPD plan
Thus, you have to do at least one of the following: • Storing your previously translated documents in an
Check the following websites:
is not carved in stone. So feel free to modify it
electronic format then create a translation memory.
Marketing tips
whenever you need. Enjoy the journey and aim
• Storing your glossary in a free terminology management
http://marketingtipsfortranslators.com/
for excellence.
Looking forward to connecting there!
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Selections
World Thinkers - Al-JAHIZ
A Twitter Account Just for You
Al-JAHIZ
Selections
TRANSLATION CONNECT
His unfinished Kitāb al-ḥayawān (“Animals”),
widely accepted by later Arabic literary critics.
negligible, he is chiefly interesting as a writer,
in seven volumes, is a bestiary drawing on
Another quality of the Arabs, generosity, is
for with him form is never overshadowed by
Aristotle and also an anthology of Arabic
emphasized in Kitāb al-Bukhala ʾ (“Book of
content; even in purely technical works. If he
literature
which
Misers”) which is at the same time a portrait
is not the first of the great Arab prose writers,
linguistic
gallery, an attack on and analysis of avarice.It
if in rhetoric ‹Abd Allah b. al-Muqaffa› and Sahl
discussions have been added. Kitāb al-bayān
is a collection of stories about the avaricious.
b. Harun, to name but two, are his masters,
wa al-tabyīn, (“Elegance of Expression and
His acute powers of observation, his light-
nevertheless he gave literary prose its most
Clarity of Exposition”), another long work, treats
hearted skepticism, his comic sense and
perfect form, as was indeed recognized first by
Al-Jāḥiẓ (Arabic: الجاحظ), in full Abū ʿUthmān ʿAmr ibn Baḥr al-Jāḥiẓ (born
literary style and the effective use of language.
satirical turn of mind fit him admirably to
politicians who made use of his talent for the
in Basra, 776 – December 868/January 869), was an Arabic prose writer,
The book (4 vols) seems fundamentally to be
portray human types and society; he uses
‹Abbasid cause and then by Arab critics who
theologian, intellectual, and litterateur known for his individual and masterful
an inventory of what have been called the
all his skill at the expense of several social
were unanimous in asserting his superiority
Arabic prose.
‹Arabic humanities›, designed to stress the
groups
and making his name the very symbol of
Born at Basra in an obscure family of mawali from the Banu Kinana and
oratorical and poetic ability of Arabs. the book
etc.) generally keeping within the bounds of
literary ability.
probably of Abyssinian origin, he owes his sobriquet to a malformation of
is considered to have started Arabic literary
decency. Al-Jāḥiẓ, in effect, provides in his
General References:
the eyes (jahiz = with a projecting cornea). Not much is known about al-
theory in a formal, systemic fashion. Al-Jahiz’s
works an entire education in the humanities of
• Encyclopædia Britannica
Jāḥiẓ’s early life, but his family was very poor. He sold fish along one of the
defining of eloquence as the ability of the
his time.
• Wikipedia
canals in Basra in order to help his family. Financial difficulties, however, did
speaker to deliver an effective message while
Meanwhile, even though Jahiz›s place in the
• Encyclopedia of Islam
not stop al-Jāḥiẓ from continuously seeking knowledge. He used to gather
maintaining it as brief or elaborate at will was
development of Muslim thought is far from
• الموسوعة العربية العالمية
World Thinkers
with
theological,
animal
themes
sociological,
and
to
(schoolmasters,
singers,
with a group of other youths at Basra’s main mosque, where they would
Folk Tales Translated by the PSU English Preparatory Year Program Students
discuss different scientific subjects. He also attended various lectures given
Translation Supervisor: Ms. Maria Zaheer, Lecturer, PSU English Department
by the most learned men in philology, lexicography and poetry. His intellect
scribes
The King and His Minister
and wit gained him acceptance in scholarly circles and in society. Mixing with groups which gathered at the mosque (masdhidiyyun) to discuss a wide range of questions, attending as a spectator the philological enquiries conducted on the Mirbad and following lectures by the most learned men of the day on philology, lexicography and poetry, namely alAsma›i, Abu ‹Ubayda, Abu Zayd, he soon acquired real mastery of the Arabic language along with the usual and traditional culture. His precocious intelligence won him admittance to Mu,tazili circles and bourgeois salons, where conversation, often light, was also animated by problems confronting
Translated by: Maha Al Mutairi Supervised by: Ms. Maria Zaheer Lecturer, PSU English Department
the good side in every bad situation. On a
human for a sacrifice. They saw the king
normal day, the minister woke up in the early
and captured him. While they were doing
morning, and ordered the maids to set the
their rituals, they noticed the king›s finger.
breakfast table for the young king. The king
Immediately, they released him because he
observation of the various elements in a mixed population increased his
woke up and took a shower to get ready.
had an injured finger. They couldn›t sacrifice
knowledge of human nature, whilst reading books of all kinds which were
After that, the young king went to the big hall
beginning to circulate in Basra gave him some outlook on to the outside
to eat his breakfast. The big table was full
anything that was damaged. In their belief,
world. It is quite certain that the intellectual resources offered by his home
of food brought from the Far East, even a
town would have been fully adequate to give al-Jahiz a broad culture but the
man standing far could smell it and imagine
the Muslim thinkers at that time: in the realm of theology, harmonizing faith and reason and, in politics, the thorny question of the Caliphate which was constantly brought up by the enemies of the ‹Abbasids, the conflicts between Islamic sects and the claims of the non-Arabs. His penetrating
‹Iraqi metropolis, then at its apogee, had a decisive influence in helping to
the good taste. While the king was eating, he
form his mind. It left its rationalist and realist imprint so clearly on him, that
accidently cut his finger.
al-Jahiz might be considered not only one of the most eminent products of his home town, but its most complete representative, for the knowledge he
nce upon a time in the distant west, there was
«Aaaaaaah» screamed the king.
subsequently acquired in Baghdad did not modify to any noticeable degree
O
«Maybe Allah wants something good for
his turn of mind as it had been formed at Basra; Basra is the continuous thread running through all his works. Like many Arabic writers, al-Jahiz had a very great output. A catalogue
have been partially preserved, whilst the rest seem irremediably lost. Few of his treatises on theology and politics are extant; some are known only from quotations by other authors. His prose masterpieces, however, are available. Many of these are essays on diverse topics; others are anthologies in which poetry, jokes, and anecdotes, however obscure or daring, have been introduced by al-Jāḥiẓ to illustrate his points.
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the middle of Valhalla, there was a huge gold castle where the young king and his
minister lived. The minister was loyal and
you,» said the minister. The king got mad at the minister. He ordered his guards to put him in jail. The minister said
a curse would fall on them. The king was greatly relieved and he remembered the minister’s words. The young king ran back to the jail and told the minister about what happened. After that, he asked the minister, «what was the good side of putting you in jail?» «If I was with you, they would have taken me
to himself, «Maybe Allah wants something
instead of you and sacrificed me,» said the
good for me».
minister.
Three days later, the young king went on a
To sum up, everything happens for a reason.
Research & Translation
the minister helped him by his wise words,
hunting trip. While he was hunting, there
We should be patient, because in every bad
Center, PSU
«Maybe Allah wants something good for us».
were old tribal people performing traditions
moment, there are concealed moments of
of his works lists hundreds of titles of which only about thirty, authentic or apocryphal, have been preserved, in their entirety; about fifty others
a country called Valhalla. Particularly, in
it would make the gods upset and in turn
Prepared by: Mr. Ashraf Thaher
honest to his king. As any king, the young master suffered from everyday›s issues and
The minister was a wise man. He could see to satisfy their gods, and they needed some Folk Tales Translated by the PSU English Preparatory Year Program Students
happiness.
Translation Supervisor: Ms. Maria Zaheer, Lecturer, PSU English Department
2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a
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TRANSLATION CONNECT
Zuhair Ibn Abee Sulma
Mr. Yousuf Hindess Coordinator, PSU Personal Development Skills Courses
Arabian Poets of the Jahaliyya Period
Zuhair Ibn Abee Sulma
Z
uhair Ibn Abee Sulma Al-Muzny lived for about 90 years. Two of
of a cow and a gazelle, and then it moves to its main subject, praising
his sons – Kaab and Bujair – were poets too, becoming poets
Haram Ibn Sanan and Al-Haarith Ibn Ouf.
at the service of Islam. Zuhair was nicknamed ‘The Year Man’ because he would not recite a poem aloud to people until he
had spent at least a year revising, arranging and perfecting it. He died before the appearance of Islam. These lines below are a short extract taken from the end of a long
These two men were leaders of their respective tribes who forged a truce between the warring tribes of Abs and Thobyaan who had been feuding for manyyears. Indeed, the feud was so bad and bloody it threatened to destroy both tribes. Finally, Zuhair moves to some advice
poem of 63 lines, known as the Mualaqqa of Zuhair (literally – ‘The
and insights based on his long life and that is the section of the poem
Hanging Poem of Zuhair’). The poem uses a number of meters. In a style
translated below.
typical of the time, it begins as a love poem, continues into a description
Extract from ‘Mualaqat Zuhair Ibn Abee Sulma’ [lines 47 – 63]
Whoever refuses to ground his spear to make peace,
I’ve had enough of life’s hardships in my eighty years,
Will soon sue for peace by the spears his foes release.
And – be orphaned, if you doubt – a long life’s a curse.
Whoever fails to defend what is most dear,
I know what happened today as I do yesterday,
Will find it taken by force at the end of a spear.
But what will happen tomorrow I just cannot say.
Whoever wasted the chance to wrong others first,
I’ve seen death come stumbling along at random,
Will find that they will wrong him and do their worst.
Like a she-camel wandering lost at night, trampling some,
Whoever wanders far from his native lands,
And those it misses go on to grow really old,
Will start to take his enemies as his friends.
Until senility takes its debasing hold.
Whoever does not show himself some respect,
And whoever failed to get involved in many matters,
Will also find others throw it into neglect.
Will feel fate’s fangs, and be trodden on by fodder eaters.
Whatever traits a man has and wishes to hush up and hide,
And whoever acts kindly safeguards his good name,
Will find them made public and whispered far and wide.
And whoever acts meanly will be beset by blame.
How often have you been impressed by the silent type,
Whoever had wealth and withheld it from his tribe,
And when he speaks you see he’s under or over ripe?
Will find himself sidelined, taunted by their every jibe.
A man consists of two halves, a tongue and a heart.
And whoever maintains loyalty won’t be forsaken,
The rest is just an amalgam of flesh and blood parts.
And whoever kept a clean heart, his words won’t be mistaken.
A rash old man is too old to master prudence,
Whoever fears death will face it by and by,
But rash youth still has time to cultivate patience.
Even if he finds a ladder up to the sky.
We asked. You gave. We asked again. You gave again.
Whoever misplaces his help and it hits the wrong target,
The one who keeps asking will one day face disdain.
Will suffer a loss of face and feel deep regret.
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