Interpreting/Translation in Virtual Reality: Student Engagement with New Technology - A Case Study

This scientific article is based on qualitative research methodology and was developed as a result of a specific experience within the project "Interpreting/Translation in Virtual Reality: Development of Online Translation Applications and Training Students with New Technology" undertaken at the Department of German Language, Faculty of Foreign Languages, University of Tirana, Albania. The project was financially supported by the Faculty of Foreign Languages and aimed to explore the potential of virtual reality and new technologies in the field of translation and interpreting.

In this context, a detailed survey was conducted targeting 30 first and second-year Master's program students in Translation, aiming to evaluate their level of knowledge and use of automatic translation technology. The questionnaire included questions that probed the students' experiences, their abilities in using new translation technologies, and aspects of training and skill development for their use. This survey provided significant data for understanding how students face the challenges and opportunities presented by new technology in the translation field.

The methodology used included analyzing the data collected from the survey to identify trends, needs, and obstacles faced by the new generation of translators and interpreters. Through this analysis, the project aimed to offer a clear assessment of the potential that new technology offers to improve the quality of translation and interpreting services, as well as to prepare the next generation of linguists to meet the demands of a globalized world.

The article's objectives include:

1.       Assessing the impact of new technology and virtual reality on the education and training of translation students.

2.       Identifying the challenges and opportunities that new technology brings for translators and interpreters in their professional formation.

3.       Offering recommendations for the effective use of new technologies in the field of translation and interpreting.

The conclusions of this study indicate that the inclusion of new technology, especially virtual reality, in the training of translators and interpreters offers extraordinary opportunities for improving educational practices and preparing them for the global job market. This interdisciplinary approach helps in raising a new generation of linguists who are well-equipped to face the challenges of communication and translation in an increasingly connected world.