Impact of Computer-Aided Translation Tools on the Product of Future Translators

Computer-aided translation (CAT) tools have been widely adopted in both professional translation settings and university translation programs. This study investigates the impact of CAT tools on future translators. Two instruments were administrated in this single-group experimental study. First, a pre–post test collected quantitative data to explore the impact of CAT tools on the translation quality and efficiency of future translators in the Bachelor of English Language and Translation program at Qassim University. Second, semistructured interviews explored students’ perspectives on the use of CAT tools. The data from the pre–post test were analyzed via a paired samples t-test, while the qualitative interview data were thematically analyzed. The findings revealed significant evidence of improvements in both translation quality and efficiency (i.e., time required to perform translation tasks) for students using CAT tools. Most respondents reported significantly increased productivity as a significant benefit of CAT tools and expressed positive perspectives toward these tools. Furthermore, the findings revealed that CAT tools helped maintain consistency in terminology across translated texts. Nevertheless, students reported the following challenges: limited technological competence, inadequate training in CAT tools and issues related to text segmentation. The author recommends raising students’ awareness of the importance of translation technology skills and postediting CAT-translated text. Moreover, it advocates the development of a comprehensive student training program in CAT tools.