Teaching Sight Translation And Sight Interpreting

Sight translation (ST) is a practice between translation and interpreting. Sight interpreting (SIT) is often regarded as simultaneous interpreting (SIM) with text. They are not easier than any other types of interpreting as a lot of skills are involved in ST and SIT practices. Therefore, ST and SIT teaching should in no way be overlooked and due attention should be paid how the teaching is structured and organized. This thesis attempts to shed light on teaching ST and SIT, based on concepts and strategies of skill training.This thesis is composed of four chapters, introduction and conclusion excluded.Chapter One provides some theoretical information. It clarifies the definitions of ST and SIT, which are the focuses of this study. They are independent as well as interdependent.Chapter Two tries to justify the importance attached to ST and SIT training. Because ST and SIT are different from interpreting merely from an oral source, ST and SIT interpreters face peculiar problems such as understanding of written texts and visual interference. Systematic training based on the recognition of laws governing the practice can help them to develop their own way of processing information to make them more confident and competent.Chapter Three analyzes skills involved in ST and SIT. Five major skills are discussed in details: reading comprehension, segmentation, memory, flexible coordination and smooth delivery.Chapter Four presents some suggestions for ST and SIT teaching. It introduces the student-centered approach, which is to facilitate students' participation in the class activities as much as possible by promoting group work and evaluation. In the process, teachers are expected to create an environment similar to the real work situation. The author is convinced that all the teaching methods should serve students, just as all the theories should serve the real world practices.