1st Edition
How to Augment Language Skills Incorporating Generative AI and Machine Translation in Language Learning and Translator Training
How to Augment Language Skills outlines ways in which translators and language providers can expand their skillset and how translation technologies can be integrated into language learning and translator training.
This book explains the basics of generative AI, machine translation, and translation memory suites, placing them in a historical context and assessing their fundamental impacts on language skills. It covers what to teach in a specific context, how to teach it, how to assess the result, and how to set up lively class discussions on the many problematic aspects. The exploratory empirical approach is designed to reach across several divides: between language education and translation studies, between technology designers and users, between Western and Asian research, and between abstract ideas and hands-on practice.
Features include:
- 57 technology-related activities for the language and/or translation class.
- Recent research on the capacities of generative AI.
- Examples of how to conduct a needs analysis.
- Comparisons of the main teaching methods.
- Ways to assess the use of technologies.
- Examples in Chinese, Spanish, Catalan, French, and German.
- A full glossary explaining the key terms in clear language.
Drawing on years of classroom experience, Hao and Pym illustrate how these skills can be taught in a range of classroom and online activities, making this essential reading for teachers, instructors and researchers involved in the teaching of languages and the training of translators.
Contents
Glossary
Preface
Chapter 1: What are language technologies and why should we know about them?
Chapter 2: How do we know which skills to teach?
Chapter 3: Will all language professionals need translation technologies?
Chapter 4: What methods do we use to teach translation technologies?
Chapter 5: What activities can help students use technologies better?
Chapter 6: Who assesses what?
Chapter 7: How do we answer students’ questions about language technologies?
Chapter 8: Ways forward
References
Biography
Anthony Pym is Distinguished Professor of Translation and Intercultural Studies at Universitat Rovira i Virgili in Spain. His publications include Exploring Translation Theories (third edition, 2023). He has been teaching translation technologies since 2000.
Yu Hao is Lecturer in Translation Studies at the University of Melbourne in Australia. Her research interests are in translation curriculum development, translation-technology teaching, and international education studies.
“This book takes crucial questions about the teaching of language and translation skills in our high-tech, GenAI context by the scruff of the neck and gives them a really good and welcome shake. It will prove to be an inspiring read for anyone teaching or learning about language and translation skills.”
Sharon O’Brien
Associate Dean for Research, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Dublin City University
“As the pace of technological developments quickens, translation and language educators and students alike are in need of up-to-date resources to help them navigate the changing landscape. A strength of this book is the sheer variety of food for thought with regard to possible activities to suit different teaching modes and learning styles, along with ways to assess them. It also tackles the thorny problem of responding to student (and instructor) anxieties in this highly technologized field. The path forward through the murky world of generative AI may not be entirely clear, but with this book, Yu Hao and Anthony Pym deliver a compass and a powerful torch to help guide the way.”
Lynne Bowker
Canada Research Chair in Translation, Technologies, and Society, Université Laval
“How to Augment Language Skills is a must-have for language educators and translators. Packed with practical teaching tips and a captivating exploration of AI, this book brings theory to life. With a fascinating dive into Artificial Intelligence (AI), it empowers readers to enhance their language skills and thrive in today's evolving linguistic landscape. An invaluable resource that makes learning accessible and engaging!”
Defeng Li
Distinguished Professor of Translation Studies, University of Macao
