Knowledge Re-production and Transfer: Translating Practice into Theory

Abstract:

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This paper argues that cross-fertilization among translation academic researchers, practitioners and trainers is needed for all the actors involved in the translation enterprise. It calls for a practice-based research model to materialize the mechanisms needed for the interaction and collaboration of the three stakeholders, which would have positive impacts on the translation landscape. Given that this cross-fertilization can only be beneficial if it is structured and sustained, then it has to be formalized and institutionalized. A plan will be proposed as to how this can be materialized.  It is a thesis of this paper that professional practice needs academic research (theories) to shape it, and theory can only have functional dimensions through professional practice; therefore, there is a pressing need to bridge the gap between “knowing” and “doing” in translation. To the extent that this position is valid the university is invited to play a leading role in materializing this objective, with a view to shaping the future of the translation profession and preserving translation education in Arab universities.