Class
Article
College
College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences
Department
Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Sciences Department
Faculty Mentor
Claudia Schwabe
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Abstract
There are over 7,000 languages spoken around the world. In the past twenty years alone, the internet has digitized and improved much - including translation apps. With apps specific to particular languages and topics and with the ability to access so much information at the touch of a finger, it is easy for individuals to engage themselves in communicating with those who speak different languages. According to the Pew Research Center, in 2022, language learning in the United States was at its lowest point in twenty years.2 Conversely, translation app use has increased. Although these mobile translation apps, e.g., Google Translate and Microsoft Translate, and language learning apps, e.g., Duolingo and Babbel, are frequently and successfully used by different age groups, these apps have their limitations. This study aims to explore the effectiveness of translation apps in language learning, as well as their potential limitations and drawbacks of language learning in classroom settings. This research will focus primarily on young adults, ages 17-25, who use Google Translate, one of the most popular and well-known translation apps that has more than 500 million users worldwide. Jeff Pitman, Engineering Manager of Google Translate, stated that as of January 2023, the app supports 133 languages at various levels.3 Although translation apps and programs are beneficial and fulfill a variety of needs, they are only supplemental to language learning and cannot replace it. The findings of this study on the USU campus provide insights into the use of translation apps and programs in language learning and have implications for language teachers and learners alike.
Location
Logan, UT
Start Date
4-11-2023 11:30 AM
End Date
4-11-2023 12:30 PM
Included in
The Effectiveness of Translation Apps and Understanding the Flaws of Language Learning in Classroom Settings
Logan, UT
There are over 7,000 languages spoken around the world. In the past twenty years alone, the internet has digitized and improved much - including translation apps. With apps specific to particular languages and topics and with the ability to access so much information at the touch of a finger, it is easy for individuals to engage themselves in communicating with those who speak different languages. According to the Pew Research Center, in 2022, language learning in the United States was at its lowest point in twenty years.2 Conversely, translation app use has increased. Although these mobile translation apps, e.g., Google Translate and Microsoft Translate, and language learning apps, e.g., Duolingo and Babbel, are frequently and successfully used by different age groups, these apps have their limitations. This study aims to explore the effectiveness of translation apps in language learning, as well as their potential limitations and drawbacks of language learning in classroom settings. This research will focus primarily on young adults, ages 17-25, who use Google Translate, one of the most popular and well-known translation apps that has more than 500 million users worldwide. Jeff Pitman, Engineering Manager of Google Translate, stated that as of January 2023, the app supports 133 languages at various levels.3 Although translation apps and programs are beneficial and fulfill a variety of needs, they are only supplemental to language learning and cannot replace it. The findings of this study on the USU campus provide insights into the use of translation apps and programs in language learning and have implications for language teachers and learners alike.