Simulation as a training tool for beginner translation students: class activity design and students’ perceived benefits

Non-correspondence between university training curricula and translation labor market demands has long been a significant issue in the academia. To reduce the gap and equip students to adapt better to the varying market demands, we selected simulation as a major training tool in a profession-oriented translation course for a group of Hong Kong beginner students of translation, and looked into students’ individual written reflections to interpret their perceived benefits from the course. Our research results show that the subjects generally agree that from the simulation activities, their translation competence increased – especially in the cultural and intercultural areas, interpersonal area, strategic area, and attitudinal or psycho-physiological area.