Training interpreters in rare and emerging languages

In order to respond to an increasing need for interpreter training in a number of rare and emerging languages in Australia, the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT University) has been offering a Diploma of Interpreting program in such languages since 2002. The students have for the most part arrived as refugees, have lived in Australia for only a relatively short period of time, and have varying educational backgrounds. This paper seeks to identify the sociolinguistic, socio-political and socio-economic factors that impact on the adjustment of these students in the interpreter training course at RMIT under a uniquely dual-sector education setting. The paper also attempts to identify the factors affecting the teaching and learning aspects of the program.