Ateneo - UPO

The course Specialised Languages and English Translation introduces students to the fundamental principles of translating specialised texts from English into Italian. Combining theoretical reflection with practical activities, the course provides the foundations for understanding the translation process, the main approaches to translation, and the strategies required to deal with texts from a range of specialised domains.
Through the analysis of authentic texts, students will become familiar with the linguistic, textual and terminological features of specialised discourse, developing the ability to identify common translation challenges and to propose appropriate solutions according to the communicative context and target readership. Translation and revision exercises will enable students to apply the knowledge acquired, consolidating their linguistic competence while fostering a systematic and informed approach to translation.
The course also offers an introduction to the use of dictionaries, reference resources, documentation and terminology research, and basic translation technologies, with the aim of developing an autonomous and critical approach to translation practice.

Course handouts prepared by the lecturer.

The course introduces students to the fundamental principles of specialised translation from English into Italian, providing the theoretical and methodological foundations for the analysis and translation of specialised texts. Through a combination of theoretical instruction and practical activities, the course aims to develop an awareness of the distinctive features of specialised languages and to foster a systematic and critical approach to the translation process.

Students must demonstrate a solid command of the English language, at least at a B2 level, with a particular emphasis on comprehension and written expression. As a translation course from English to Italian, proficiency in the Italian language is also required.

The course adopts an integrated teaching approach combining lectures, practical translation exercises, case studies, guided discussions, and the use of digital resources to support translation practice. Regular formative feedback will accompany the learning process, encouraging the progressive development of theoretical knowledge, practical translation skills, and critical reflection.

Students who do not attend classes are required to agree their translation project with the lecturer during the scheduled office hours, either in person or online.
Students with disabilities, Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLDs), or other Special Educational Needs (SEN) may request dedicated services and appropriate support by contacting the University Office for Student Support and Career Services and by consulting the relevant section of the University website.
After contacting the University Support Office, students with disabilities, SpLDs or SEN are encouraged to discuss any teaching- and assessment-related requirements with the module lecturer in order to agree on appropriate examination arrangements.

The final assessment consists of two equally weighted components: a specialised translation project and an oral presentation, each accounting for 50% of the overall mark.
The written project is assessed on the quality of the translation, with particular attention to accuracy in relation to the source text, the appropriate use of specialised terminology, and stylistic consistency. It also includes an evaluation of the student's analysis of the translation process, including the identification of key translation challenges, the justification of translation choices, the effective use of documentary and terminological resources, and the compilation of a glossary of specialised terms.
The oral presentation complements the written assessment and evaluates the student's ability to explain and justify their translation decisions clearly and coherently, demonstrating an appropriate command of specialised terminology and the resources employed throughout the translation process. It also assesses the student's overall communication skills, including the clarity and effectiveness of the presentation and the ability to respond appropriately to questions and discussion.

– Introduction to Specialised Languages and Translation
Characteristics of specialised languages, fundamental principles of specialised translation, and the role of the translator.
– Analysing Specialised Texts
Analysis of the linguistic, textual and terminological features of specialised texts, with particular attention to the identification of common translation challenges.
– Translation Strategies and Resources
Basic strategies for translating specialised texts from English into Italian, and the use of lexicographical, documentary and digital resources to support the translation process.
– Translation Workshop
Guided translation, revision and discussion of authentic texts drawn from a range of specialised domains, with particular emphasis on justifying translation choices and preparing the final translation project.

By the end of the course, students will be able to:
identify the main linguistic, textual and terminological features of specialised texts;
demonstrate familiarity with specialised terminology and use it appropriately in the translation process;
apply basic strategies for translating specialised texts from English into Italian, addressing common translation challenges;
use the principal lexicographical and digital resources to support the translation process;
adopt a reflective approach to revising their own translations and justify their main translation choices.