New Training Methods and Education Formats in Interpreter Training at the Institute of Translation Studies, Faculty of Arts, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
Abstract
This chapter describes in detail the MA in interpreting at the Institute of Translation Studies, Charles University, Prague, and the way in which the Institute regularly innovates in its curricula and courses. After a retrospective of this study programme going back to its very inception in 1963, the author turns to the present and outlines the activities of the Institute, particularly in the field of training, with a detailed presentation of the following modules: European Masters in Conference Interpreting (EMCI), Specialised Interpreting and Community Interpreting for foreigners and minorities.
She then addresses the so-called "third role" of the Institute and its active involvement in the public sphere, where students and trainers regularly cooperate with NGOs working in intercultural mediation, assistance for migrants and their integration. Students interpret for these organisations as part of their mandatory interpreting work experience and trainers organise tailor-made community interpreting courses for social workers from them.
The chapter also highlights the mutually beneficial cooperation between the Institute and various professional associations of interpreters and translators in the Czech Republic, and between the Institute and European institutions. The conclusion of the chapter reflects on the future and on how best to attract prospective students to the Institute.