COOPERATIVE KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY HELPFUL INFO

Working with Translators

Nancy Cálix, Assistant Extension Administrator for County Operations Jessica Marquez, Bilingual Community Resource Development Extension Assistant

Key Concepts

Translation

Rendering of written information from one language to another language.

Translation

Performs a translation.

Limited English Proficient (LEP)

An individual who does not speak English as his/her primary language and has limited ability to read, speak, write, and understand English.

Expanding programming to Limited English Proficient (LEP) clients may include translation of written materials. Key to the quality of the translation is the successful reflection of cultural nuances and expressions that may bear meaning on the content of the message. Being bilingual does not guarantee the ability to accurately convey meaning from one language to another language; therefore, it is important to be aware and/or be able to assess language aptitude and skills necessary to convert a message from one language to another.

language aptitude and skills necessary to convert a message from one language to another.

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, indicates that “No person in the United States shall, on the grounds of race, color or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance.” Failure to provide access to information and effective participation of federally funded programs and activities may violate rights of LEP individuals protected under Title VI regulations on the grounds of national origin discrimination.

Quality

The translation document should convey “true” meaning of information. This is achieved by selecting a competent translator who:

• has proficiency in the target language;
• is cognizant of the culture of the target language;
• has proficiency in punctuation, spelling, and grammar in the target language;
• avoids literal conversions;
• is certified by a translation agency or has completed translator training;
• is knowledgeable of the subject matter and terminology;
• has excellent research skills and access to language resources; and
• is computer literate.

When hiring a translator you may request a sample of their previous work and letter of reference and proof of credentials. Translators should also be