The pursuit of efficiency in teaching J>E translation

Translation is a very complex process. It involves full comprehension of the source text within its cultural context, and the rendering of the source text in the target text within that cultural context. Naturally, the translator needs a high level of proficiency in both the source language and the target language, as well as the discipline to stick to concepts, not words. An MA program is four semesters long, each semester consisting of 15 weeks. Some of that time is taken up for midterm and final exams. What can actually be taught, or should be taught during that time frame? How much of the learning needs to be a prerequisite? For those considering entering an MA program in translation/interpretation, what is the best way to prepare for the experience so that the time can be used most efficiently? This talk will explore these questions from the perspective of 23 years of teaching.