Examining Translators’ Experiences in Translating Grade 4 Geography Concepts from English to Tshivenḓa

Authors

  • Thama Mudau

    Department of Applied Languages, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, Gauteng 0152, South Africa
  • Martha L. Kabinde-Machate

    Department of Applied Languages, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, Gauteng 0152, South Africa
  • Itani Peter Mandende

    Department of Applied Languages, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, Gauteng 0152, South Africa

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30564/fls.v6i5.7007
Received: 6 August 2024 | Revised: 25 August 2024 | Accepted: 27 August 2024 | Published Online: 11 November 2024

Abstract

Translation of educational materials from English into indigenous African languages such as Tshivenḓa presents significant challenges, particularly concerning non-equivalence and cultural disparities. This qualitative study examines translators’ experiences in translating Grade 4 Geography concepts from English to Tshivenḓa. Anchored by Skopos theory and the scan and balance framework, the research adopts an interpretivist paradigm and a phenomenological design. Five expert translators participated and were selected through purposive sampling. Data collection included translation tasks and semi-structured interviews, which were analysed using thematic and inductive analysis. The findings reveal pervasive cultural and terminological challenges stemming from differences between English and Tshivenḓa, compounded by insufficient resources and time-intensive translation processes. The translators navigated these challenges with adaptive problem-solving approaches like using dictionaries, internet searches, and consultations with experts, as well as by achieving equivalence through translation strategies such as paraphrasing, cultural substitution, loan words, general words, and coining, guided by systematic strategy selection based on the intended purposes of the translations. This study contributes to the understanding of the nuanced dynamics of translation in educational contexts, highlighting the need for improved resources and collaborative efforts among translators. By enhancing translation practices in indigenous languages, this research endeavours to support better educational outcomes and preserve linguistic diversity.

Keywords:

Cultural Translation Challenges; Translation Strategies; Grade 4 Geography Concepts; Tshivenḓa Language; Skopos Theory; Linguistic Diversity; Indigenous Languages

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How to Cite

Mudau, T., Martha L. Kabinde-Machate, & Mandende, I. P. (2024). Examining Translators’ Experiences in Translating Grade 4 Geography Concepts from English to Tshivenḓa. Forum for Linguistic Studies, 6(5), 383–397. https://doi.org/10.30564/fls.v6i5.7007

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Vol. 6 , Iss. 5 (November 2024)

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Copyright © 2024 Thama Mudau, Martha L. Kabinde-Machate, Itani Peter Mandende

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This is an open access article under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.