Machine Translation Use in English Academic Reading and Writing: From the Perspective of Technology Acceptance Model

Due to the rapid advancement of AI-driven translation technology, the application of machine translation (MT) in foreign language education has become the focus of current research. Based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), this study investigates science and engineering students’ use of machine translation in English academic reading and writing. A questionnaire survey was conducted to uncover their perception of MT use in the academic setting, how, when and why they use MT, and their evaluations of the tool. The findings indicate that students, having acquired certain knowledge about MT, are keen to utilize it. They have adopted a scientifically sound use pattern and hold a positive evaluation of MT. Additionally, students believe that the application of MT positively impacts their academic English proficiency, expressing optimism towards MT-use teaching and MT literacy development. In the future, foreign language education should contribute to high-quality academic talents cultivation, enhance students' academic English proficiency and guide them in the correct and scientific use of MT.