Training translation researchers: an approach based on models and best practice

Abstract

A general issue for doctoral research training is what a comprehensive module in research methods in translation studies might (or should) include. This article attempts to answer that question in two complementary ways: by identifying a number of research models in translation studies and by providing examples of best practice within them, to be discussed and analyzed in training sessions. The models are: textual-descriptivist, cognitive, culturalist and sociological. Instances of best practice are published reports of research, regarded as effective, efficient and representative of the research model in question. The description of each model is accompanied by examples of practical training, involving the application of concepts and methods to new research topics and environments.