Teaching translation and interpreting in aerospace field: Experience and analysis Available to Purchase

This paper provides the outlines of teaching translation and interpreting for the field of aerospace. It surveys the experience of Moscow Aviation Institute (National Research University) (MAI) where the efforts are aimed at training specialised translators/interpreters and make them the most sought-after language professionals in the aviation and space industry. The academic staff do their best to ensure that the would-be specialists acquire both language skills and industry-specific knowledge, and understand key aerospace terminology. Aerospace is a global industry where communication in many languages, first of all in English, is crucial to all market players. As this industry comprises a wide range of jobs varying from aircraft design offices to aircraft manufacturers and airlines, the tasks for translators and interpreters will vary, too. There can be a demand for translation of technical manuals, aircraft maintenance documents, technical blueprints, contracts, as well as the need for consecutive interpreting during meetings, talks, presentations, discussions, social events and so on. This should be taken into consideration in the translation/interpreting teaching process focusing on the issues ranging from mastering terminological databases and up-to-date translation technologies to cultural awareness, good memory, excellent listening skills and eloquence. Another top priority is to make sure that the future translators and interpreters understand the specific aviation and space language and jargon such as flight characteristics, aircraft design and technical aircraft parts lists and much more. Moreover, aerospace is the field closely related with such areas as ecology, economy, technology, politics, law. Professional translators and interpreters should be aware of at least the basic vocabulary from these areas. The study reveals the best methods and techniques used in MAI to train professionals who can meet the demands of the industry.