Teaching Translation in the AI Age: Fostering Independent Critical Thinking and Authentic Learning

Abstract

Translation is the transfer of meaning and ideas from one language to another. Good translators must be trained to translate systematically, accurately, and appropriately, and they have to practice translation frequently and consistently. Translation instructors typically recommend principles and methods of translation and provide exercises for translation practice. Students then translate according to the principles they have been taught, using dictionaries as tools to help translate vocabulary meanings. They create draft translations, think, analyze, and modify the language until they achieve accurate and appropriate meaning, which takes considerable time. However, in the current era where Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a translation tool that translates quite accurately, students have become dependent on AI tools to assist in translation instead of practicing critical thinking or independent thinking. This article, therefore, presents strategies for teaching translation that encourage students to employ independent thinking, critical thinking, and authentic learning, while not rejecting the AI currently being used worldwide. It proposes approaches for teaching translation, assessment, and evaluation, as well as classroom teaching techniques to maximize student benefits. These strategies include having teachers help students understand translation tools, teach them how to analyze text, and practice comparing translations made completely by AI versus translations made by humans using AI as a helper. Students should also work together with classmates to discuss and analyze difficult translation work, and learn to evaluate translation skills when using AI tools.