ICT-SUPPORTED EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES FOR UNIVERSITY STUDENTS MAJORING IN TRANSLATION STUDIES

Abstract

In the context of the reformation of the higher education in Ukraine the preparation of translators and interpreters requires new approaches to the process of teaching and learning. It presupposes the implementation of ways and forms aimed at active rather than passive learning, an increased sense of academic autonomy, development of motivation, responsibility and accountability in acquiring profession-specific knowledge, skills, communicative abilities and attitudes as well as interdependence and mutual respect between the academic teacher and the student.

The authors of the article argue that the language tuition to students majoring in translation studies contributing to the overall development of their professional competence of intercultural mediators can be carried out in the form of extra-curricular activities via information and communication technology tools.

With respect to the results of the grounded study of current tendencies, achievements and problems, valuable experience and outcomes related to the issue under consideration, the paper reflects on two extra-curricular activities, their stages, aims, objectives and tasks performed; analyses their importance and efficiency in promoting students’ autonomy and responsibility; outlines the role and the functions of information and communication technology tools used.

The English Speaking Club involves specially arranged meetings intended to provide practising English autonomously outside the classroom context. Participating in conversations with a native speaker students have the opportunity to improve their vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation skills, enrich their background knowledge of traditions and culture of the English-speaking countries as well as overcome psychological barriers while expressing personal views and ideas.

Translation and Voice Over Recording Studio is organised as a project activity tailored to initiate student translators and interpreters to the real workflow of a project team specialising in translation of different types of audio and video texts in the English language into Ukrainian and their further voice over recording. Performing roles of translators, proofreaders, editors, voice-over artists and sound directors, the participants have the opportunity to practically implement knowledge, skills and communicative abilities obtained while learning profession-specific subjects at the university, developing and improving translation and interpretation skills in particular. Specially selected information and communication technology tools provide the efficient organisation of the Club’s and Studio’s work.