Translation as Communication: Communicative Teaching of Translation Using Published Translation: Please Look After Mother by Shin, Kyung-Sook

Abstract

One of the main challenges in teaching translation has been how to induce students’ active participation in the learning process. To achieve more dynamic learning environment in which active discussion and negotiation of meaning can take place, this paper attempts to address the key question of how to transform often static, instructor-dependent translation classroom into more active, student-centered venue for learning and interaction. To avoid any foreseeable unsolicited teacher-dominated scenario, the paper suggests the use of a professionally translated text as an ultimate alternative along with those produced by the students. This paper presents a case study in which a published English translation of a Korean novel into English is used as an alternative reference text to the teacher’s translation. Besides, this study emphasizes the importance of raising students’ awareness of choices in translation and of encouraging the students to make well thought-out selections on their own through active discussion in class.