An Online Library for Interpretation Training in Hong Kong

Abstract

This project aims at developing a web-based library of interpreting practice resources for all interpretation students of CityU to practice individually and collaboratively outside the classroom, such practice being a crucial factor to the success of interpreting training. The out-of-class drilling materials are collected and tailor-made to target Hong Kong and mainland Chinese students' needs, so as to i) enhance their Chinese and English language proficiencies, interpreting skills and world knowledge by connecting face-to-face learning experiences with online learning experiences; ii) foster student autonomy, alone and in groups, and intrinsic motivation through the creation of online learning communities among interpreting trainees; iii) provide students with greater interest confidence and flexibility as preparation for actual interpreting; and iv) provide evidence that student-centred learning is a more effective approach in interpretation training. Pedagogy that integrates classroom teaching and computer-mediated learning is now being increasingly applied in interpreter training in universities worldwide as a new means to facilitate both teaching and learning. The use of this blended learning mode in interpreting training can, in the first place, transform the traditional teacher-centered teaching mode into a learner-centered one, in which the instructor's role is more that of a facilitator of students' learning than the sole provider of knowledge and skills; and secondly, promote students' learning by creating an online learning community, providing them with more opportunities for collaborative work outside the classroom. Nevertheless, in most of the interpreting courses offered at the universities in Hong Kong, Taiwan and Mainland China, it is still the traditional teacher-centered approach that is pre-dominant, while the use of online out-of-class training materials to complement in-class instruction is quite limited. This project attempts to fill the gap by providing interesting and useful resources for students to use during semesters and semester breaks, in order to reinforce what they have learnt in class and develop the habits of self-learning, self-reflection and peer reviewing. The education platform, that is, the Blackboard, will also provide a channel for the instructor to evaluate students' progress and examine the effectiveness of the library.