Translation and Localization MIN
Program Purpose
The Translation and Localization Minor is primarily designed to complement language majors in the College of Humanities, as well as those in other colleges at BYU, such as international business, social science, computer science, etc. Students enrolled in this program build on their existing skills with foreign languages as they gain practical skills for translating texts in a variety of professional domains and familiarize themselves with computer-assisted translation tools as well as the localization process (adaptation of a product or service to meet the needs of a particular language, culture, or country), including project management. This program is one of the only undergraduate programs of its kind in the US, and we collaborate closely with professionals and companies in the language industry to continually refine our course offerings, and help our student connect with internships and jobs.
Learning Outcomes
Development of linguistic and technical skills
Students will demonstrate the language, linguistic, and technical skills needed to effectively translate facts, concepts, and feelings from one language to another.
Students will be able to tailor translation/localization projects according to each project's text type, audience, and purpose.
Evidence of Learning
Each PLANG course includes at least one course-based assessment activity that provides evidence of students' achievement vis-à-vis the course's associated program learning outcomes. Instructors report the results for these assignments to the program coordinator who compiles and analyzes the data. A committee composed of the T&L Program Coordinator, the College of Humanities Assistant Dean (BYU LIberal Arts Advisement & Careers), and the Center for Language Studies Assistant Director then draws conclusions regarding the adequacy of student achievement.
Learning and Teaching Assessment and Improvement
Assessment of program-level objectives is done during the college-wide assessment day in the Fall, as well as the college's annual Assessment Retreat in the Spring. Areas for possible improvement are noted and subsequently considered by the T&L Program Committee and the Center for Language Studies.