TR5056 - Electronic Tools for Translation (2025/26)
| Module specification | Module approved to run in 2025/26 | ||||||||||
| Module title | Electronic Tools for Translation | ||||||||||
| Module level | Intermediate (05) | ||||||||||
| Credit rating for module | 15 | ||||||||||
| School | Guildhall School of Business and Law | ||||||||||
| Total study hours | 150 | ||||||||||
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| Running in 2025/26(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change) |
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Module summary
This module develops your understanding of the broad range of translation technologies available today. It familiarises you with the principles and methods behind automatic, computer-assisted, and human-assisted translation systems and enables you to compare and evaluate these technologies based on their relevance to contemporary translation practice. The primary focus is on machine translation (MT), MT post-editing, and translation memory (TM) software, also known as Translation Environment Tools (TEnTs). The module also explores the integration of AI-driven translation tools and their transformative impact on the translation industry. You will engage with a variety of software programs and systems both theoretically and practically, through hands-on sessions that include troubleshooting workflow issues, comparing tool features, and reflecting on the impact of these tools on translators’ workflows and roles in professional settings.
Prior learning requirements
TR4054 or similar
Syllabus
This module will cover the following aspects:
• Introduction to Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) tools and their components [LO1/LO4]
• Introduction to machine translation, with a focus on post-editing workflows [LO3/LO4]
• Comparing features of translation memory software packages and troubleshooting issues in translation workflows [LO2/LO3]
• Exploring AI-driven translation tools and their transformative applications in professional translation settings [LO1/LO3, LO4]
Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity
This module is structured as a flipped classroom: you will perform all or most practical activities in class, under the supervision of the tutor, after engaging with instructional material at home. These activities attract regular formative feedback which allows you to reflect on your progress and improve your performance as you go along.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module, you will be able to:
1. Use a range of translation technologies, following the relevant workflows and comparing the principles, methods, advantages, and limitations of automatic, computer-assisted, and human-assisted translation systems in relation to professional translation practice.
2. Troubleshoot issues arising from the use of translation tools in professional translation workflows.
3. Apply MT post-editing skills effectively in various translation scenarios, while evaluating the strengths and limitations of AI-driven translation tools.
4. Demonstrate confidence and resilience in using translation technologies, meeting the expectations of the professional translation industry.