The set of translation courses in the training of sign language translators and interpreters in Brazil

contents, credit hours and competences

Abstract

Considering the undergraduate degree courses for the training of Libras-Portuguese translators and interpreters in Brazilian federal universities, we conducted an analysis of their courses that aim at the development of knowledges, skills and attitudes specifically related to the fields of translation and interpreting. In order to organize the programs’ courses into categories, we considered the names, descriptions, credit hours and other information found about the courses in the Pedagogic-political project. Then, the courses were classified according to types of ‘content knowledge’ (conceptual, procedural, and / or attitudinal) and a specific sort of content (theoretical, practical, applied technologies, research tools and / or professional aspects). We have found several elements that approach the undergraduate degree courses, as well as specific emphases that distinguish them. In conclusion, the curricular design of the undergraduate courses for the training of generalist Libras-Portuguese translators and interpreters should (i) be well grounded on pedagogical principles and on translation studies, (ii) consider the expected profile of the professionals being trained and (iii) regard the current demands of the labour market. Moreover, the visual-gestural modality, as well as its effects and non-effects on translation and interpreting, should be seen as an essential matter to be approached in all the courses that aim at training translators and interpreters who work across languages and modalities.