An Evaluation of Translation Teaching at Undergraduate Level in Tanzania

Abstract

Universities in Tanzania are now greatly interested in teaching translation courses at undergraduate level. One outstanding observation is that most graduates work as teachers and not as translators. This paper aimed at evaluating teaching of translation courses at undergraduate level. The objective is to determine to what extent translation courses in Tanzania meet the market needs. The study used qualitative and quantitative methods in order to collect information. This includes questionnaires and the evaluation of course outlines, prospectuses, timetables, leaflets and examination papers. Findings indicate that translation courses in Tanzania are not in line with the current market needs. On the one hand, the findings of this study will enable the government of Tanzania, represented by Tanzania Commission for Universities (TCU) and higher learning institutions offering translation courses to be up-to-date on the requirements of professional translator training in the era of globalization. On the other hand, the findings of this study will lead them in the rethinking of the translation courses. Furthermore, the present study will awaken the consciousness of student-translators, translator trainers and professional translators on the current translation market needs in the twenty-first century and a part of contribution to the on-going global debate on teaching translation at undergraduate level.