Functions Of Translation Associations In The Professionalization Of Language Services

Due to the development of globalization, information technology and modern service industries, translation services gradually upgrade into “language services”——a new area which includes services such as translation, localization, terminology, language training, and language technologies. While language services forge ahead, the professionalization of this area also deepens. As a bridge between the government and enterprises and one key element of professionalization, a translation association should guide the professionalization of language services. It is therefore necessary to conduct specific research on this topic so as to enable translation associations to make their due contribution.The research questions are as follows: 1) What are the functions of professional associations in the professionalization of language services? 2) What functions have been realized by major Chinese and Canadian translation associations?First, existing literature of professionalization and professional associations in Translation Studies, Sociology of Professions and other related studies of professional and trade associations is examined to find out the theoretical functions of professional associations in professionalization of language services. A four-stage model is formulated to show professionalization of language services and a list of 24 functions of professional associations is presented to answer the first research question.After that, a comparative study of major translation associations in the two nations——Translators Association of China(TAC), Language Industry Association(AILIA), Canadian Translators, Terminologists and Interpreters Council(CTTIC) and Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues et interpr è tes agr éé s du Qu é bec(OTTIAQ) through literature method helps to identify the functions that those associations have already fulfilled. Materials from official websites, which reveal structures of members, missions, objectives, and activities, are analyzed to answer the second research question.The conclusions are as follows: language services in both nations have entered the third stage of professionalization——the stage of actual control; professionalization of the translation sector is faster; TAC’s functions are quite comprehensive, with many achievements being made in offering training, establishing a formal education system and promoting public welfare. It is therefore suggested that Chinese translation associations should enhance internal control functions in the first place so as to guarantee the quality of services and the effectiveness of professional codes. This will enable associations to identify and realize key events in each stage of professionalization, whose ultimate goal is to achieve market protection granted by the nation.