The translation of the publication 'Teaching other languages' by the International Academy of Education, followed by a glossary of educational terms

Abstract

This dissertation begins by giving a brief review of the literature on language use in Malta. This is followed by a description of the linguistic situation in Maltese schools, with particular reference to issues related to the language of instruction. Obviously, this involves an analysis of and discussion about the use of code-switching during lessons. This chapter goes on to give an overview of the different views about the languages which should be used during foreign language lessons and what is actually happening in Maltese foreign language classrooms. The subject of language use in the Bachelor of Education Course at the University of Malta will then be treated. The aim of this chapter is to point out the language scenarios in Maltese educational institutions and the need for a bilingual policy. Therefore, what will be presented in this chapter is the rationale behind this research work. The Methodology chapter gives a detailed explanation of the reasons that govern the decision for translating the document chosen as well as compiling a glossary of educational terms. After explaining the purpose of the whole project, the chapter proceeds by giving an accurate description of the different steps involved in its process. The elements which go into forming the structure of the glossary are also presented and discussed. The chapter that follows is dedicated to general translation theories relevant to this particular translation. Furthermore, since the document to be translated is written in a specialised language, a discussion on translation for specific purposes is provided. This chapter goes on to give a brief literature review on the translation of terminology and the compilation of glossaries. It concludes with an explanation of how the various sources used in this work are referred to. Chapter four presents the translation of the document in parallel form. The analysis of particular words, phrases or sentences can be found in the form of footnotes. However, a further analysis of the various strategies employed together with decisions taken and their justifications can be found immediately after the translated text. In chapter 5, a glossary of educational terms will be presented. The glossary consists of around 70 terms or expressions taken from the translated document. These terms will be defined and put in context, when possible. The glossary is followed by a chapter dedicated to the indices of terms from English to Maltese and from Maltese to English. In this section the terms are presented in alphabetical order. The dissertation comes to an end with a brief overview of the contribution of this work to the fields of education and translation as well as an account of the insights and fresh perspectives gained during its composition. Suggestions for further research will also be presented. In the section of the appendices, one can find the original document in English of the text which has been translated.