AN ANALYSIS OF INTERPRETING MISTAKES AMONG CHINESE LANGUAGE MAJORS AT VNU UNIVERSITY OF LANGUAGES AND INTERNATIONAL STUDIES

Abstract

Interpreting is a pivotal skill in the undergraduate training program for Chinese Language majors, particularly within the current context of increasingly profound China-Vietnam economic and cultural exchange. However, students often encounter numerous difficulties in the interpreting process, stemming from disparities in encyclopedic knowledge, linguistic skills, and the ability to apply interpreting techniques in practical work situations. To obtain objective data for assessing students’ interpreting competence, this study collected and surveyed audio recordings of mid-term exams taken by Chinese Language majors at the University of Languages and International Studies, Vietnam National University, Hanoi. Based on an analysis of common mistakes in both Chinese -Vietnamese and Vietnamese - Chinese interpreting, we identified significant students’ limitations in conveying information accurately, fluently, and promptly. The prevalent mistakes are categorized into linguistic mistakes and interpreting skill deficiencies. Consequently, the paper proposes several recommendations for learning and teaching methodologies aimed at enhancing instructional effectiveness and improving the quality of interpreter training.