Game-based translation of English compound words: effectiveness of ‘2P1M’ in the translation classroom

Traditional teaching methods have employed more interactive and interesting strategies, including the use of game-based activities. These games are often played in translation classrooms. One example of such games is the self-created game, known as 2P1M (2 Pictures 1 Meaning). The game helps to make learning translation more enjoyable and indirectly enhances translation skills. The game can be utilised by the students to hone their skills in translating English compound words and expressions into the Malay language. This article discusses the use of 2P1M in translation classrooms as well as the effectiveness of the game from the students’ viewpoint. A total of 19 students from a public university who enrolled for a translation course were selected for this action-based research. They are assessed based on their translation of English compound words and expressions using 2P1M. A set of questionnaires was distributed to obtain data on the effectiveness of the game from the students’ viewpoint. Findings indicate that seven out of 20 items obtain high percentages of correct answers and translations. Data from the questionnaire shows positive feedback on the use of the 2P1M game in translation classes. The findings also indicate that the students enjoy translating compound words and expressions using the 2P1M game. Suggestions from the students show that the game can be enhanced, expanded, and incorporated with more activities. It is hoped that this study will catalyse more engaging and interactive teaching methods in translation classrooms and more opportunities for more research on translation teaching, especially in Malaysia, to be conducted in the future.