| AQF Level |
Level 8 Graduate Diploma |
| Overview and Aims of the Program |
The Graduate Diploma of Auslan-English Interpreting is a one-year program. It is a pathway to the Master of Auslan-English Interpreting. It aims to provide proficient bilinguals, who are already industry accredited (NAATI) at paraprofessional level, with further linguistic, technical and professional skills to work as professional level interpreters, as well as an academic grounding in translation and interpreting theory and research skills. Classes are conducted in a purpose-built computer laboratory designed to enhance student learning in a bi-modal language setting (visual and spoken language pair). |
| Graduate Capabilities |
The Graduate Capabilities Framework articulates the fundamentals that underpin all of Macquarie’s academic programs. It expresses these as follows:
Cognitive capabilities
(K) discipline specific knowledge and skills
(T) critical, analytical and integrative thinking
(P) problem solving and research capability
(I) creative and innovative
Interpersonal or social capabilities
(C) effective communication
(E) engaged and ethical local and global citizens
(A) socially and environmentally active and responsible
Personal capabilities
(J) capable of professional and personal judgement and initiative
(L) commitment to continuous learning |
| Program Learning Outcomes |
By the end of this program it is anticipated you should be able to:
1. apply integrated knowledge of established theories in interpreting preparation and practice (K, J)
2. demonstrate core technical skills such as analytic listening, memorisation and decalage, applied to different modes of interpreting - consecutive and simultaneous (T, P)
3. convey messages between auslan and english accurately and clearly in both language directions (K, C)
4. integrate interpersonal and communication management skills across dialogic, monologic, and professional interpreting settings (K, C)
5. demonstrate critical analysis, problem-solving, self/peer review, and creative thinking in the development of target interpreting and translation texts (T, P)
6. conduct advanced language and contextual research in creating specialized (sight and video-based) translation texts (K, T, P)
7. draw on specialist knowledge and demonstrate professional conduct in a variety of socio-linguistic contexts (K, T, J)
8. apply knowledge and skills creatively and ethically, with a high level of personal autonomy and professional accountability (T, E)
9. reflect on, and constantly refine, interpreting skills across assignment stages - preparation, in-situ and post-assignment (E, J, T)
10. communicate theoretical and technical concepts relevant to interpreting practice for the benefit of peers, clients, and the general public (C, K). |
| Learning and Teaching Methods |
Throughout this program you will be encouraged to build on your existing skills and knowledge in a range of professional interpreting modes. You will further develop your practical skills and knowledge and an understanding of the dynamics of interpreter-mediated communication from theory, research and evidence-based practice.
The Graduate Diploma is delivered in blended mode comprising online learning plus on-campus intensive teaching blocks. You will be provided with readings and recorded materials (video samples of interpreted interaction, and Auslan and English source texts) that you are expected to engage with in the on-campus sessions and through online discussions, written assignments, and practical interpreting tasks. Collaborative learning is encouraged through peer work for the completion of practical tasks, presentations and analyses of workplace experience as well as in group discussions about models of interpreting practice.
The program encourages independent learning and you will be guided in the development of reflective practice and self and peer assessment skills for the purpose of monitoring your own learning and that of your peers. |
| Assessment |
All assessment tasks will require you to demonstrate an understanding of principles and an ability to review, analyse, consolidate and synthesise knowledge relevant to professional practice in order to demonstrate problem-solving ability in a range of hypothetical and real interpreting scenarios.
Assessment tasks are varied in order to assess the specific learning outcomes of individual units. Assessments require you to demonstrate practical application of knowledge and skills to interpreting practice. Both the progressive nature of assessment, and the structure of most of the assessment tasks is designed to encourage you to view the assessment as a learning experience as well as providing unit staff with an indication of your understanding of key concepts central to the practice of Auslan-English interpreting in professional settings across relevant domains.
For this purpose, assessment of practical skills draws on simulations of interpreted communication in a range of professional settings (e.g. Education, Legal, Medical) during which you will be required to demonstrate the application of specific theories, skills and techniques. Written assignments encourage the further development of written communication skills and the ability to engage with the readings on theory and evidence-based practice. In addition, written case studies will provide the opportunity to demonstrate critical analysis of practice and your ability to engage with the research literature.
Self-reflection and analysis using ELAN annotation software is used for the evaluation of your own (and others') interpreted performances at micro and macro levels. |
| Recognition of Prior Learning |
Macquarie University may recognise prior formal, informal and non-formal learning for the purpose of granting credit towards, or admission into, a program. The recognition of these forms of learning is enabled by the University’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Policy (see www.mq.edu.au/policy) and its associated Procedures and Guidelines. The RPL pages contain information on how to apply, links to registers, and the approval processes for recognising prior learning for entry or credit.
Domestic Students
For undergraduate RPL information visit www.goto.mq.edu.au/nonschoolrpl
For domestic postgraduate RPL information visit www.goto.mq.edu.au/pgrpl
International Students
For RPL information visit www.mq.edu.au/international/rpl undefined |
| Support for Learning |
Macquarie University aspires to be an inclusive and supportive community of learners where all students are given the opportunity to meet their academic and personal goals. The University offers a comprehensive range of free and accessible student support services which include academic advice, counselling and psychological services, advocacy services and welfare advice, careers and employment, disability services and academic skills workshops amongst others. There is also a bulk billing medical service located on campus.
Further information can be found at www.students.mq.edu.au/support/
Campus Wellbeing contact details:
Phone: +61 2 9850 7497
Email: campuswellbeing@mq.edu.au
www.students.mq.edu.au/support/wellbeing |
| Program Standards and Quality |
The program is subject to an ongoing comprehensive process of quality review in accordance with a pre-determined schedule that complies with the Higher Education Standards Framework. The review is overseen by Macquarie University's peak academic governance body, the Academic Senate and takes into account feedback received from students, staff and external stakeholders. |
| Graduate Destinations and Employability |
Graduates who pass nominated units at the required level, will be eligible to apply for professional interpreter membership of the industry accreditation body: NAATI.
All graduates will be well prepared to pursue a career as professional Auslan-English interpreters working across a range of settings including:
• community interpreting (e.g. education, courts, tribunals, police, clinics and hospitals, government service providers)
• business settings (e.g. government and corporate business meetings)
• media & the arts (e.g. emergency announcements, theatre interpreting)
• conferences and public events (Deafness-related and mainstream).
As the supply of professional level Auslan-English interpreters does not meet the community demand, there is a demonstrated ongoing need for professional level interpreters. |
| Assessment Regulations |
This program is subject to Macquarie University regulations, including but not limited to those specified in the Assessment Policy, Academic Honesty Policy, the Final Examination Policy and relevant University Rules. For all approved University policies, procedures, guidelines and schedules visit www.mq.edu.au/policy. |
| Accreditation |
This is an Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) accredited qualification.
NAATI (the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters) is the certifying authority for translators and interpreters in Australia. Students will be required to meet all the assessment requirements set in each semester throughout the period of their study in order to be eligible to apply for certification from NAATI. |
