Dictionaries vs. AI-Based Resources: Preferences of Trainee Translators

ABSTRACT: Traditionally, dictionaries were the primary tool for translators; however, the advent of AI-driven online translation platforms is revolutionizing information retrieval. While recent research has explored dictionary use among trainee translators, fewer studies have comprehensively addressed the diverse range of resources, including AI-based tools like ChatGPT. In this regard, this study has investigated the types of resources most frequently used by 135 trainee translators in the last two years of the four-year degree program in Translation and Interpreting (BA) and from the MA in Translation, at the University of Granada (Spain). A self-report questionnaire was devised to collect the data. The results revealed that electronic dictionaries are still very popular among trainee translators though their use tended to be higher in Master's students. Machine translation was also often used. However, ChatGPT was less frequently used among trainee translators. The widespread use of machine translation and electronic dictionaries by trainee translators highlights the need for a well-rounded teaching approach that will integrate machine translation tools but also prioritize the essential role of dictionaries.