Simultaneous Interpreting With Written Text Training

Objectives:
• Define simultaneous interpreting and its core principles
• Identify the role of the interpreter in multilingual communication
• Explain the ethical responsibilities of a professional interpreter
• Describe the cognitive processes involved in simultaneous interpreting

Topics:
• Overview of interpreting modes: consecutive, simultaneous, whispered
• The interpreter's code of ethics and professional conduct
• Introduction to cognitive load management
• Basic equipment familiarisation (headsets, booths)
• The communication triad: speaker, interpreter, audience

Objectives:
• Analyse written texts for key information and structure
• Identify different text types and their linguistic features
• Apply skimming and scanning techniques for rapid comprehension
• Extract main ideas and supporting details from documents

Topics:
• Text typology: narrative, descriptive, expository, argumentative
• Recognising discourse markers and logical connectors
• Identifying thematic progression and coherence
• Practice with short texts: news articles, reports
• Introduction to terminology management

Objectives:
• Apply short-term memory enhancement techniques
• Develop a personal note-taking system for interpreting
• Use symbols and abbreviations effectively
• Practice recalling information from written and spoken sources

Topics:
• Cognitive psychology of memory in interpreting
• Structured note-taking methods (vertical, diagonal)
• Symbol creation for common concepts and verbs
• Memory exercises with increasing complexity
• Linking notes to text structure

Objectives:
• Perform basic sight translation of prepared texts
• Maintain grammatical accuracy while translating orally
• Manage delivery pace and clarity
• Identify and resolve translation challenges in real-time

Topics:
• Principles of sight translation vs. written translation
• Chunking text for oral delivery
• Dealing with complex syntax and long sentences
• Practice with controlled texts (certificates, forms)
• Self-monitoring and correction techniques

Objectives:
• Interpret while referencing a parallel written text
• Synchronise reading comprehension with oral production
• Manage dual-input cognitive load
• Maintain consistency between written and spoken messages

Topics:
• Working with speeches and their written transcripts
• Techniques for text marking and highlighting
• Managing discrepancies between spoken and written versions
• Practice with prepared speeches and documents
• Developing split attention skills

Objectives:
• Research and prepare terminology for specific domains
• Create and maintain personal glossaries
• Apply terminology consistently during interpretation
• Handle unfamiliar terms through contextual deduction

Topics:
• Terminology research methods and resources
• Domain-specific language: legal, medical, technical
• Glossary development and organisation
• Practice with specialised texts and speeches
• Strategies for dealing with unknown terminology

Objectives:
• Sight translate complex and dense texts accurately
• Adapt language register appropriately for different audiences
• Handle cultural references and idiomatic expressions
• Maintain professional delivery under time pressure

Topics:
• Legal and technical document sight translation
• Cultural adaptation in translation
• Dealing with metaphors, proverbs and humour
• Practice with authentic documents (contracts, manuals)
• Quality assessment and peer feedback

Objectives:
• Apply simultaneous interpreting techniques without text
• Manage lag time and anticipation strategies
• Use paraphrasing and compression techniques
• Maintain voice quality and professional delivery

Topics:
• The EVS (écoute, analyse, restitution) process
• Décalage (ear-voice span) management
• Reformulation and simplification strategies
• Booth etiquette and teamwork
• Practice with recorded speeches of increasing difficulty

Objectives:
• Simultaneously interpret while utilising written references
• Efficiently navigate between spoken input and written materials
• Integrate prepared terminology during live interpretation
• Maintain accuracy while managing multiple information sources

Topics:
• Working with PowerPoint presentations and slides
• Using prepared speeches, reports and briefing documents
• Techniques for quick reference during interpretation
• Practice with supported interpreting scenarios
• Managing information overload

Objectives:
• Interpret complex speeches with dense written supplements
• Handle numerical data, statistics and technical specifications
• Manage extended speeches with supporting documentation
• Maintain consistency across multiple information sources

Topics:
• Financial and statistical interpretation
• Technical presentations with diagrams and charts
• Long consecutive segments with written notes
• Practice with conference-style materials
• Stress management and fatigue prevention

Objectives:
• Apply interpreting skills in simulated professional settings
• Handle unexpected changes and challenges during interpretation
• Work effectively as part of an interpreting team
• Provide and receive constructive peer feedback

Topics:
• Mock conferences with prepared documents
• Role-play scenarios: meetings, presentations, Q&A sessions
• Dealing with fast speakers and accented speech
• Team interpreting and relay techniques
• Professional self-assessment and development planning

Objectives:
• Demonstrate competence through practical assessment
• Reflect on personal interpreting strengths and areas for growth
• Plan for continuous professional development
• Understand SAQA requirements and career pathways

Topics:
• Final practical assessment with written text component
• Portfolio compilation and reflection
• CPD opportunities and professional associations
• SAQA unit standard requirements and assessment criteria
• Career pathways and specialisation options in South Africa