Audio Description
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| MLAC4102 | Modern Languages and Cultures | 4 | 20 | Spring UK |
- Code
- MLAC4102
- School
- Modern Languages and Cultures
- Level
- 4
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Spring UK
Summary
This module allows the students to discover accessibility practices in the field of audiovisual translation, with a particular focus on audio description (AD). The module focuses on the theory and practice(s) of different aspects of AD. The linguistic, technical, and cultural specificities of AD will be examined in detail. Students will become familiar with professional tools, workflows and standards. Because the module focusses on AD produced for members of the audience on the blindness spectrum, part of the module is also dedicated to understanding blindness, visual impairments, and the needs of members of the audience on the blindness spectrum. The working language will be English, and whilst students will be given the opportunity to work between languages, it should be noted that for practical purposes, the focus of the module will be largely intralingual.
Target Students
Students on MA in Translation Studies, MA in Translation and Localisation, MA in Chinese/English Translation and Interpreting, MA in Comparative Literature
Assessment
- 50% Coursework 1: Subtitling and commentary equivalent to 2,000 words.
- 50% Project: Portfolio of subtitles equivalent to 2,000-3,000 words.
Assessed by end of spring semester
Educational Aims
The module provides a grounding into audio description with a particular focus on members of the audience on the blindness spectrum. The module relies on professional tools, professional conventions (for timing, take segmentation, presentation, information load, and stative vs narrative norms) with a view to open up professional avenues in the field of media accessibility.Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
• A1 knowledge and understanding of linguistic, textual and cultural issues relating to translation, and techniques for resolving difficulties
• A3 enriched knowledge and understanding of the lexis, structures and functions of relevant language
• A5 inter-cultural awareness of social and situational issues
• A6 knowledge and understanding of technological tools for translation
• A7 knowledge and understanding of techniques required for successful working intralingually in English
• A8 knowledge and understanding of the principles of literary and audiovisual analysis
Intellectual Skills
• B1 critical analysis of source texts and strategy for resolving translation problems
• B3 ability to mediate between people and cultures
• B4 critical assessment of own and others' translations
• B5 critical use of primary and secondary source material, both written and audiovisual
• B6 engage in independent study and research
• B7 engage in critical and analytic reflection and form judgments on the basis of ideas acquired through B1-5
• B10 make a practical and effective use of English, informed by the acquisitions of B1-9
Professional Skills
• C1 ability to produce translations in English in both traditional and new media
• C4 research, planning and preparation for translation assignments
• C6 use of professional resources, both traditional and electronic
• C8 ability to demonstrate knowledge, understanding and intellectual skills through written communication
• C9 competence in proof reading and copy editing
Transferable Skills
• D1 oral and written communication and presentation skills
• D3 definition of problems and construction of strategies for their solution
• D7 working calmly and effectively under pressure/stress
• D8 use of IT as a means of communication, presentation and learning