LDT 505 – Lesson 5, App 3
Reviewed by Tara Ondra
Details: Developed by Google. Released 2006 using statistical machine translation. Since 2016 Google Translate has been using neural machine translation to accommodate full sentences rather than individual words. Available on Android, iOS, Windows, macOS
Cost: Free
Review:
Google Translate is a useful reference and communication tool that translates words and phrases between English and over 100 other languages. Words and phrases can be input via photograph, typed text, handwritten text or spoken via microphone allowing for real time transcription. The learner can personalize the app by saving translated words and phrases for future vocabulary review and practice. GoogleTranslate promotes seamless learning (Looi et al., 2010) as it supports vocabulary development in formal and informal learning environments, private and public learning spaces, and across “malleable spatial temporal contexts for learning” (Kearney et al., 2012). As a communication tool, Google Translate breaks down barriers permitting greater clarity for giving classroom instructions, obtaining information during learner intake processes, and the conversation feature allows for smoother dialogue particularly with lower level students. While translation tools have become increasingly accurate particularly for the more common languages, there is a danger of learners becoming overly reliant on translation tools for communication rather than making the effort to stretch the brain muscles to truly learn the language. Learners must also be reminded to be somewhat skeptical of the translation and confirm the meaning and feeling of words and phrases with instructors.
References:
Kearney, M., Schuck, S., Burden, K., & Aubusson, P. (2012). Viewing mobile learning from a pedagogical perspective. Research in Learning Technology, 20(1), 1–17.
Looi, C.-K., Seow, P., Zhang, B., So, H.-J., Chen, W., & Wong, L.-H. (2010). Leveraging mobile technology for sustainable seamless learning: A research agenda. British Journal of Educational Technology, 41(2), 154–169.