Urgency of digital literacy in translator education – A survey of students in Ghana

Abstract

Digital literacy is an essential skill for many professionals, including translators. Computer-assisted translation (CAT) and machine translation (MT) tools have simplified professional tasks and are continuously improving. This study recaps a brief history of computer-assisted translation and creates an understanding of the key events which have led to the current online and permanently connected CAT tools. Using a survey of 186 participants from a Ghanaian university, the study assesses the influence of digital literacy on the quality of students’ experience and trust with CAT and MT and their trust in such tools. Univariate statistics were used to reveal key sample characteristics. Correlations and simple linear regressions (R2 = .06, F (1, 184) = 12.11, p = .00; R2 = .04, F (1, 184) = 7.63, p = .01) suggest a relationship between digital literacy and both experience and trust in CAT and MT tools. The paper recommends the promotion of digital literacy through exposure to software, CAT, and MT tools to prepare students for professional translation. The findings are discussed with a focus on translator education and the professional practice of translation.

Keywords

• Digital literacy
• Computer-assisted translation tools
• Translations
• Internet translators
• Translator education