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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

,,

8

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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TRANSLATION CONNECT

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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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

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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

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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

2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a

41

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.

2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a

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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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TRANSLATION CONNECT

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

2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a

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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

2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a

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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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Articles

TRANSLATION CONNECT

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.

2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a

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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

2015 w w w. p s u . e d u . s a

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TRANSLATION CONNECT

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

61

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

71

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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Translation as Intercultural Communication

Translation as Intercultural Communication

The importance of translating political texts

By: Ms. Heba Ahmed English Department student,PSU

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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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TRANSLATION IN 2015 PRINCE SULTAN UNIVERSITY

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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«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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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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