Business language in the training of future translators – methods, techniques, challenges

Abstract

In the age of globalisation, business translation is a desirable service for companies that want to operate in international markets. Translation for business includes a wide range of translation and interpreting services covering various texts. It is a demanding service as the translator must be flexible, punctual and open to continuous development and self-education. Researchers have already explored the issue of teaching specialised languages (including business language). Nevertheless, there is still a lack of studies proposing concrete teaching solutions adapted to the requirements of the current translation market in teaching future translators, who are special cases of specialised language learners.

This paper aims to develop guidelines for courses dedicated to students who need to acquire the competencies demanded in translating for business. The research group consisted of English Philology students with a specialisation in translation, who took courses that dealt with business-related topics in translation: Tłumaczenie tekstów w obrocie gospodarczym oraz Tłumaczenie tekstów technicznych i ekonomicznych. With the help of the observational method, interviews and ethnographic research, four segments of guidelines were developed that are worth considering when planning similar courses: students' professional competencies, teaching methods and techniques, labour market needs and self-development, and course tutors.

In addition, the research indicated that students are more willing to engage in their learning process if they work with project methods that allow them autonomy and creative problem-solving. In the interviews, students appreciated the real materials and simulated translation tasks including working in translation teams.