The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) in Carmarthen, Wales provides a postgraduate qualification in simultaneous interpretation under the leadership of Lynwen Davies. The programme is unique in that it is the only postgraduate qualification of its kind in Wales. The qualification receives support from the Society of Wales’ Translators (CCC) and sponsorship from the Welsh National College (known in Welsh as Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol).
This year, the university offered a unique immersive experience to the students for the first time in a new immersive suite. This experience was purpose-built to bridge the gap between the classroom and the workplace to develop students’ confidence in a practical and low-risk natural environment.
In one of the two immersive suites, the students experienced a live meeting. They considered key environmental aspects and logistics before discussing the interpretation in detail. They then had a chance to simultaneously interpret the same session individually, giving them an opportunity to refine their skills and gain confidence working under pressure.
Speaking about the experience, Lynwen Davies said, ‘Simultaneous interpretation is a skill that needs to be practiced, and the more experience the students get to refine their craft, the better. Spending time in the immersive room will provide the opportunity to put into practice what they learned in the classroom and strategies that will help them cope with challenges, such as hearing difficulties, the best place to sit or stand etc. The immersive room offers a safe place to practice and make mistakes, and more importantly, to learn from those mistakes. This development reflects the University’s commitment to leading the way in innovative training and providing progressive learning experiences that give our students the best opportunities to succeed.’
Glyn Jenkins, Digital Experience and Engagement Manager at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David added, ‘Working with the simultaneous interpretation programme has enabled our team to develop new, progressive experiences. By harnessing our immersive capabilities and using our first-class immersive suite technology and VR, we are improving teaching and learning experiences, pushing the boundaries of traditional education, and embracing the future of immersive learning.’
Immersive training is a recognised form of learning that is suitable for individuals who wish to venture into the field. During the course, students receive guidance from experienced professionals who work as interpreters. The course also offers the opportunity to visit the Welsh Parliament (known in Welsh as the Senedd) in Cardiff to watch the First Minister’s Questions from the public gallery and talk with the Senedd’s interpreting team.
Lynwen Davies, University of Wales Trinity Saint David