Abstract
The aim of this chapter is to show how project-based teaching can be used in translator training. A concrete example is explored - projects conducted in optional courses on literary and specialized translation taught at the Institute of Translation Studies, Charles University, Prague; these courses are an opportunity for the students to engage in an authentic translation assignment.
Projects of this type can be used in any non-linguistic degree programme that contains courses in foreign languages; in this way, students are able to develop a basic translation competence - often referred to as a fifth language skill - which is often found lacking in today's graduates of non-linguistic programmes, despite being a useful skill for many professionals. The paper will also outline the historical development of educational approaches, including the changing role of teacher and student in (translator) education.