Digital translation: New advanced training regulation enters into force on 1 January

Computer-aided translation, virtual databases and social media platforms for the exchange of translation solutions are just some of the buzz words which encapsulate the wide-ranging digital developments that have taken place in the translation industry over recent years. Such aspects are exerting an impact on the demands made of translators today.

For this reason, the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB) has joined forces with the social partners, the relevant professional association, experts and various federal ministries to draw up new advanced training regulations for the qualification of certified translator on behalf of the Federal Government.

The advanced training qualification is regulated in a nationally standardised manner and is open to persons who have completed vocational education and training in a commercial or administrative occupation. The prerequisite is at least one year of vocational practice or comparable qualifications and advanced knowledge of a foreign language.

Certified translators who have achieved the recognised advanced training qualification will, for example, be able to work for companies, translation agencies, the courts, notaries, or public institutions.

The modernised training regulation takes full account of the digital competence requirements involved in the provision of translation services and of the particular significance of project work in customer orders that has been brought about by various new developments. This is of relevance with regard to the expansion of examination objectives. Translations of difficult texts with correct content and language, the composition of demanding texts in the foreign language, and the ability to communicate orally in the foreign language at a high level all remain highly important.

New features particularly include computer-aided translation, research, terminology management and media competencies for the critical evaluation of information sources. Certified translators also learn how to plan and complete orders in a customer and quality-oriented manner.

In order to meet these needs, the updated advanced training regulation contains a new examination module. As well as a written translation test, candidates will be required to complete an assignment which involves processing a translation project. The advantage of this part of the examination is that it will focus on a practical and project-based form of work which is typical of the tasks translators do.

The modernised advanced training regulations for the qualification of certified translator will enter into force on 1 January 2018 and will replace the previous ordinance from 2004.