Two new high-tech interpreting laboratories open at the University of Bath this week, to train students for careers in interpreting.
The training facility in the Department of European Studies & Modern Languages mimics the conditions at international conferences, enabling students to train as far as possible to the working environment of professional interpreters.
The labs feature sound-proofed booths and conference interpreting systems. They also hold a comprehensive speech repository for self-study.
The MA in Interpreting and Translating offers seven foreign languages and organises prestigious placements and internships for students in organisations including the United Nations, as well as arranging visits to the European Commission and the European Parliament.
In 2009 the University signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the United Nations and with the European Parliament on co-operation in the areas of training and recruitment, to encourage Bath graduates to apply for positions with the UN and EU institutions, given the high demand for skilled linguists.
Elena Kidd, Director of Studies for postgraduate interpreting and translation courses said: “Having the state-of-the-art facility enables us to simulate the real world working environment, so that our students are better prepared for professional tests and the world of work.
“Our focus is very much on gearing students to be able to step confidently into the demanding and highly skilled role of interpreters, and as a result they perform well in very challenging professional tests.
“We run twice weekly practice conferences for our students, bringing in speakers in our full range of languages to make the learning experience as authentic as possible.
“I am certain that these new facilities will motivate and inspire teaching staff and students alike and will give much more prominence to the programme in general.”
The language laboratory was opened by Professor Jane Millar, the University’s Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research) on Wednesday 6 October, followed by a celebration event at the University’s Claverton Rooms for staff and students in the department.