Session

Advances in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly the availability of tools based on Large Language Models (e.g. ChatGPT), pose new fundamental challenges for translation teaching and learning. These are mainly related to two issues, namely the integration of such tools for the development of translation competence and the preparation of students for a translation industry that is in constant flux due to technological developments.

In relation to these topics, in this course we will discuss the challenges and opportunities faced by the various stakeholders in translator training at universities. This concerns, firstly, university institutions, which need to consider new professional and social realities and adapt curricula accordingly, as well as support teachers and students through guidelines and training programmes. Secondly, the teachers are confronted with the challenge of expanding their technological expertise. They also need to consider the effects of AI use on the development of translation competence, and to learn and evaluate possible ways to use AI tools for lesson preparation and classroom exercises. The third group are the students, who find new opportunities for both task completion and autonomous learning. However, this requires technological competence and a high awareness of the drawbacks and risks associated to AI use.

Building on these questions, we will analyse possible ways of AI integration at different levels and also discuss practical examples of use for teaching and autonomous learning. The course is aimed at translation teachers, students and practitioners who want to get familiar with how translation teaching and learning is likely to change in the near future.