Commented Translations of Non-literary Texts in Slovakia

Abstract

To this date, several scholars emphasised the importance of process-based learning as well as the benefits of using commented translation as a key evaluation method in university translation programmes (e.g., Kussmaul 1995, Gile 1995, Chesterman and Williams 2002, Hurtado Albir 2015, Shih 2018). However, commented translation has not been a focal point of discussion or research among Slovak scholars. Therefore, using quantitative methods, the principal objective of this study was to investigate the practice of writing commented translations at Slovak universities, specifically the practice of writing a commented translation as an alternative to traditional research-focused thesis. Analysis of 211 theses not only revealed typical formal structure and features of commented translations of non-literary texts, but also several shortcomings. The study implies that the practice of writing commented translation is rather heterogenous and inconsistent. As a result of these investigations, suggestions were identified for future research.