# 275 The Future of Language and Translation Education with JC Penet and Joss Moorkens

Introduction to the Podcast

Overview of Machine Translation and AI

• The podcast discusses advancements in machine translation, highlighting that modern Language Models (LMS) can produce text closely resembling human writing.

• Hosts JC Pennet and Jos Morans introduce themselves as experts in translation studies, with a focus on their recently published book titled Teaching Translation in the Age of Generative AI.

Background of Guests

• Jos Morans shares his academic background at Dublin City University, emphasizing his research at the intersection of translation and technology.

• JC Pennet introduces himself as an academic from Newcastle University with 20 years of experience in higher education, focusing on integrating translation and education.

The Book's Purpose and Context

Emergence of Generative AI Concerns

• Following the release of ChatGPT in November 2022, there was noticeable anxiety among university staff regarding generative AI's impact on teaching practices.

• A survey indicated that 90% of university teachers viewed generative AI implementation as a significant challenge, prompting discussions about its role in education.

Addressing Educational Needs

• The book aims to provide guidance for educators facing challenges posed by generative AI, acknowledging diverse backgrounds among faculty members.

• The authors stress the importance of adapting to technological changes while supporting colleagues through this transition.

Contributors and Content Structure

Skills Development for Students

• The first part of the book focuses on new skills required for students in light of generative AI advancements.

• Contributors like Gary Massie and Moren Erenssburg Dao discuss essential digital skills students must acquire to thrive in a changing landscape.

Understanding the Concept of Suitability in Data Literacy

Contributions to Teaching Data Literacy

• Lin Barker discusses using science communication as a foundation for teaching data literacy, presenting an innovative approach.

• The book includes a chapter on ethics by Gandro, highlighting various perspectives and angles relevant to the subject.

Transitioning from Emergency Remote Teaching to AI Discussions

• The conversation shifted rapidly from emergency remote teaching during the pandemic to generative AI discussions following ChatGPT's launch.

• Co-editors JC and Masari Yamada were brought together due to their differing views on technology; Masari is more optimistic about its potential.

The Evolution of Language Models: A New Disruption

Differences Between Current LLMs and Previous Technologies

• Today's language models (LLMs) represent a significant disruption compared to earlier machine translation technologies like statistical methods or neural networks.

• Translation studies have been adapting since 2015, but LLMs have introduced new challenges that require further adaptation.

Key Characteristics of Modern LLMs

• LLMs can generate human-like text, making it challenging to identify inaccuracies or hallucinations in their output.

• Unlike previous tools, LLMs can be prompted with context and specific terminology, allowing for tailored outputs based on user needs.

Public Perception and Its Impact on Translation Demand

Misconceptions About Translation Roles

• There is widespread hype around LLM capabilities leading some headlines to claim they threaten the role of translators. This perspective often oversimplifies what being a translator entails.

• If translation is viewed merely as converting languages, then yes, LLM may pose a threat; however, if it encompasses quality assurance and client requirements, the situation differs significantly.

The Impact of Neural Machine Translation on Language Studies

Perception of Language Studies

• The rise of freelance translators has led to a perception that studying languages or translation at university is less valuable, which is misleading.

• The discussion highlights the evolution from viewing neural machine translation (NMT) as a tool for enhancing translator efficiency to recognizing its broader implications in technology use.

Case Study: Medical Translation Challenges

• A study conducted with Harvard Medical School and Boston Children's Hospital focused on translating discharge instructions for non-English speaking families, particularly in Latin American Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, Haitian Creole, and Arabic.

• The quality of machine translations varies significantly across these languages when translating from English, raising concerns about accuracy and reliability.

Findings on GPT Tools

• Testing with GPT-4 showed improved translation quality compared to commercial providers, with fewer critical errors related to medical terminology.

• Despite promising results, hospitals require solutions that work universally across all languages; current technology does not meet this need effectively.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

• Concerns arise regarding the publication of research findings due to legal requirements for oversight in automated translations. There’s a risk that jurisdictions without such laws may misuse tools like ChatGPT without proper understanding.

Evolving Educational Focus in Translation Programs

• The conversation shifts towards education, emphasizing that the central question now is not just whether students can translate accurately but if they can assess suitability for different contexts.

New Skills Required for Translators

• Rammon's contribution emphasizes the importance of traditional skills—linguistic knowledge, translation ability, cultural expertise—while also advocating for new competencies in assessing translation suitability.

Emphasis on Selection and Assessment Skills

• As translation practices evolve with technology integration, programs must focus on developing skills in selection (choosing appropriate solutions from various options) and assessment (evaluating those choices).

Effective Prompting as a Game Changer

• A new skill highlighted is effective prompting when using large language models. This skill complements existing core competencies while adapting to technological advancements in translation.

Understanding the Role of Human Translators in Augmented Translation

Core Skills and Added Value

• The aim is for students to recognize their unique value as human translators, enabling them to engage effectively with stakeholders about their contributions to augmented translation.

• Suitability has been a part of translator training since the 1980s, gaining renewed significance in the context of generative AI.

Ethics in Translation and Technology

• Discussion on ethical blind spots among students and professionals, particularly regarding the transition from traditional translation roles to technology-related jobs.

• Many graduates are moving into localization or tangential language jobs rather than direct translation roles, reflecting a broader trend observed globally.

Decision-Making and Ethical Framework

• As careers evolve, individuals will face ethical decisions; equipping them with tools for decision-making can empower them to act according to their personal ethics.

• A proposed triple bottom line framework evaluates technology's impact on people, planet, and performance equally, inspired by business ethics concepts.

Transformative Educational Approaches

• The triple bottom line idea aims to broaden perspectives beyond performance metrics in machine translation (MT), encouraging responsible evaluation practices among students.

• An example includes a PhD student developing a course on responsible evaluation for NLP students based on this framework.

The Risk of Deskkilling Due to AI

Concerns About AI Impact

• The discussion addresses whether AI poses a risk of deskkilling students within various educational contexts.

• Engaging with AI is crucial; avoiding it may lead to long-term deskkilling. There are instances where limiting AI use can be beneficial for skill development.

Balancing AI Use in Education

• In language teaching, there are moments when it's essential for students to learn independently without relying on AI tools. This approach fosters linguistic ability through practice.

The Role of AI in Language Learning and Translation

Concerns About AI in Education

• Some colleagues argue that using AI in the classroom hinders students' ability to learn translation skills independently, suggesting it leads to "diskilling" of their abilities.

• The speaker challenges this notion by questioning whether we should restrict students from using modern tools like the internet, drawing a parallel with historical methods such as using ink and quill.

Historical Context and Changing Expectations

• The speaker reflects on their own educational experience compared to that of their father-in-law, highlighting how technological advancements have changed expectations in academia. They note that while they had easier access to resources, the standards for research were different.

Ethical Implications of Generative AI

• Acknowledging concerns raised by colleagues about generative AI not being just another tool, the speaker emphasizes the need for discussions around its ethical implications. They argue that educators cannot ignore these developments and must adapt accordingly.

• The risk of disempowering students who do not engage with AI is highlighted; those who avoid it may lack essential skills needed for future competitiveness in the language industry.

Balancing Traditional Skills with Modern Tools

• Educators should find a balance between teaching traditional skills and integrating AI into learning experiences. There are instances where avoiding AI might be necessary to meet specific learning outcomes, but clear communication can help students understand these decisions.

• Transition programs should include sessions focused on developing effective use of AI tools alongside foundational language skills, promoting overall literacy regarding technology's role in translation work.

Provocative Ideas on Language Mastery

• The speaker proposes an idea for a rigorous program focusing solely on language mastery without technology for a year before introducing powerful tools like AI, suggesting this could establish a strong foundation for future learning.

• This approach raises questions about whether such an intensive focus would be beneficial or if concurrent learning with technology is more effective given current student realities and technological integration into daily life.

Diverse Student Experiences with Technology

• Students come from varied backgrounds regarding their engagement with technology; some may use generative AI wisely while others might overlook its complexities or ethical considerations entirely. Understanding these differences is crucial for educators when designing curricula.

• The discussion touches upon the necessity of cultivating true mastery over language amidst increasing reliance on generative technologies, questioning who will remain as masters of language if interaction becomes predominantly through AI interfaces rather than human creativity and effort.

The Future of Language Mastery in the Age of AI

The Role of Technology in Language Learning

• Discussion on the potential future where humans may become hybrids with technology, emphasizing the importance of mastering language skills alongside tech proficiency.

• At Newcastle University, emphasis is placed on teaching students to read deeply and understand implicit meanings that AI cannot grasp, highlighting a critical human skill.

• Understanding context and meaning construction is essential; generative AI lacks this capability, which underscores the need for human interpretation in translation.

Challenges in Language Education

• Encouragement for students to read extensively in both their first language and source languages to enhance comprehension and contextual understanding.

• Concerns about current language education trends where students accumulate multiple languages but lack proficiency; advocates for focusing on mastering one language pair effectively.

Observations on Student Potential

• Recognition that some students exhibit exceptional cultural and linguistic awareness, suggesting a promising future generation capable of great achievements.

• Acknowledgment that not all students struggle; many leverage advanced tools (like AI) to enhance their learning experiences.

Emotional Intelligence and Educator Support

• New generations are noted for their emotional intelligence, which can be beneficial when navigating an increasingly AI-driven landscape.

Addressing Educators' Overwhelm with AI

• Institutions face challenges supporting educators who feel overwhelmed by rapid advancements in AI technologies affecting language education.

• Varied responses among faculty regarding technology adoption highlight the need for tailored support strategies based on individual comfort levels with new tools.

• Some educators resist integrating technology into their teaching methods due to fear or misunderstanding, indicating a gap that needs addressing through professional development.

The Role of AI in Language Education

The Integration of AI in Teaching

• The speaker emphasizes a progressive shift towards integrating AI into teaching practices, enhancing traditional methods rather than replacing them.

• Reference to "technological inflation," highlighting the constant demand for more technology in education and its implications on teaching methodologies.

Project LT Leader: Enhancing Educator Skills

• Introduction of the Erasmus+ project "Language and Translation Literacy in Digital Environments and Resources" (LT Leader), aimed at training translation teachers and humanities educators in technology.

• A forthcoming open-access book will provide foundational to advanced technological skills over 18 chapters, culminating in coding requirements to build AI literacy among educators.

Career Opportunities for Language Students

• Discussion on why young individuals should consider studying languages, emphasizing job sustainability amidst technological advancements.

• A broader view of language learning reveals numerous career paths beyond traditional translation roles, including marketing and data literacy opportunities.

The Importance of Intercultural Communication

• Highlighting the growing significance of intercultural communication skills due to geopolitical tensions and misunderstandings.

• Emphasizes that understanding other cultures is crucial for navigating global challenges, linking this need to rising social issues like far-right movements.

Branding Challenges in Language Education

• The speaker suggests that there is a branding issue regarding language studies; effective marketing could reshape perceptions about the value of a degree in translation or linguistics.

• Proposes that if educational programs effectively communicate their benefits, it would attract more students by showcasing diverse career opportunities.

The Evolving Perception of Language Degrees

The Vocational Challenge

• The speaker discusses the historical marketing of language degrees as vocational, suggesting that graduates are guaranteed jobs due to high demand from employers.

• Emphasizes the need to shift perceptions about language and translation degrees, highlighting that employability extends beyond just language proficiency to include interpersonal and intercultural competencies.

Broadening the Scope of Employability

• Acknowledges the difficulty in changing public perception, noting that while these degrees were once seen as purely vocational, they encompass deeper skills applicable across various fields.

• Warns against a narrow view of education focused solely on immediate job readiness, advocating for a broader understanding of what it means to be employable in today's world.

Skills for the 21st Century

• Discusses the importance of both hard and soft skills in modern employability, stressing that adaptive expertise is more valuable than routine expertise.

• References Eric Antelone's work on deliberate practice, indicating ongoing debates within academic circles about redefining educational outcomes for language programs.

Addressing Mismatches in Education

• Highlights a disconnect between student expectations and actual outcomes from translation programs, with many graduates not becoming traditional translators.

• Notes changes in program titles and structures over time aimed at attracting students but acknowledges challenges in maintaining enrollment levels across Europe.

Rebranding Language Programs

• Reflects on past experiences with undergraduate degree titles like "Languages for International Communication," suggesting rebranding efforts have been made to align with market demands.

• Concludes by expressing satisfaction with how current programs prepare students for diverse careers despite uncertainties around optimal naming conventions.

Conclusion and Resources

• Thanks participants for their contributions and mentions a freely available resource titled "Teaching Translation in the Age of Generative AI," encouraging further exploration into evolving educational paradigms.