- Docente: Federico Picerni
- Credits: 3
- Language: Italian
- Teaching Mode: In-person learning (entirely or partially)
- Campus: Bologna
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Corso:
Second cycle degree programme (LM) in
Italian Culture and Language for Foreigners (cod. 6726)
Also valid for First cycle degree programme (L) in Foreign Languages and Literature (cod. 0979)
First cycle degree programme (L) in Languages, Markets and Cultures of Asia and Mediterranean Africa (cod. 9264)
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from Sep 28, 2026 to Nov 04, 2026
Learning outcomes
The seminar guides students in acquiring theoretical knowledge of translation and specific skills in audiovisual translation and subtitling in the context of the Chinese language. It will allow them to become familiar with the main subtitling software and to understand the relationship between translation and localisation. Students will have the opportunity to apply the knowledge they have gained by working directly with audiovisual translation and subtitling, while also deepening their understanding of colloquial Chinese.
Course contents
The seminar introduces students to the theory and practice of audiovisual translation, with particular reference to the Chinese language. It is divided into two parts: an initial theoretical and methodological section, followed by a practical component in which students will undertake a translation exercise.
The practical component consists of translating and subtitling a short film that will be screened in the Sinofonie: Cinema in Chinese Languages section of the 12th edition of the Ennesimo Film Festival (Fiorano Modenese, April–May 2027).
The seminar will also feature contributions from professionals working in audiovisual translation, subtitling and film festival organisation, providing further insight into professional subtitling practices and cinematic language.
Readings/Bibliography
The seminar does not include a formal bibliography on which an examination will be based. Students who are interested may consult the following titles for an introductory theoretical and methodological overview of audiovisual translation and subtitling.
- Diaz-Cintas, Jorge e Aline Remael, Audiovisual Translation: Subtitling, Routledge, 2007.
Teaching methods
The seminar will be conducted through seminar-style teaching, with active student participation and practical translation and subtitling activities.
Students with SLD or temporary or permanent disabilities. It is suggested that they get in touch as soon as possible with the relevant University office (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en) and with the lecturer in order to seek together the most effective strategies for following the lessons and/or preparing for the examination.
Assessment methods
Active participation in the practical translation and subtitling work qualifies students for passing for the seminar.
Such active participation will be assessed on the basis of the regular and timely submission to the instructors of the work completed in class (at least 80% of the assigned work), as well as the level of engagement demonstrated during the sessions.
Students who do not meet these requirements may obtain the pass/fail assessment as non-attending students by submitting a 1,600-word paper (excluding bibliography) consisting of a critical analysis of the Italian or English subtitles of a Chinese-language film or television series. The analysis must be based on an independently compiled bibliography comprising at least three academic sources, which must be discussed and incorporated into the paper.
Teaching tools
VLC (or other media player apps) and Subtitle Edit.
Office hours
See the website of Federico Picerni