When Translation Technology Meets Educational Technology: The Way Forward for Teaching Computer-Aided Translation

Susan Xu Yun

《翻譯學報》 13卷1&2期 (2010/12) Pp. 283-304

摘要

＂Computers will never replace translators, but translators who use computers will replace translators who don't.＂ Translation technology is thus no longer an option but a necessity in translators' education. Meanwhile, technology has provided new opportunities to transform teaching and learning by individualizing and customizing education. Hence, it is only natural to ride the wave of new educational technology to enhance the teaching of translation technology. This article aims to explore the impact of e-learning on translation pedagogy in the context of Singapore. Initially, a number of problems with teaching translation technology, particularly, computer-aided translation (CAT) tools, in the conventional classroom are considered. It is proposed that blended e-learning may help to solve some of the problems and facilitate the teaching and learning. The author then relates her experience in designing a blended e-course for teaching CAT, summarizing it with the acronym RACE (R = resistance to the project, A = anxiety in the initial stage, C = confidence gained in the process, and E = excitement upon completion). The article demonstrates how the teaching of CAT can be made lively and engaging through e-learning. It finally examines the practical issues in implementation and evaluates the effectiveness of the new approach in achieving learning outcomes.