Translation Technology and CAT Tools: Addressing Gaps between Pedagogy and the Translation Industry in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The purpose of this empirical study was to determine the degree to which the translator training andinstruction offered at universities in Saudi Arabia prepared translators to make use of computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools that were available in the local market. It also sought to identify waysto increase the use of these tools in Saudi Arabian university programmes and by extension the SaudiArabian translation market. The study likewise examined how electronic aids could help meetinternational standards. To this end, a mixed-methods model was employed. Data were collectedthrough a questionnaire, training session, follow-up questionnaire, and observation cards involvingSaudi Arabian BA, MA, and PhD students. The researcher also interviewed the students’ instructorsand freelance Saudi Arabian translators. The results showed a lack of applied translation courses andtraining in both the public and private sectors. The majority of the translation instructors did not havea background in using translation software at the university level. Instead, they were mostlyacademics who had been trained in other fields and intended to subsequently train with CAT tools tobe able to meet market needs. Most students perceived there to be a dearth of translation labs andsoftware at Saudi Arabian universities. The findings thus revealed a gap between universityprogrammes and market needs. Based on these findings and the limitations of the study limitations,the study provides recommendations for future research as well as implications for teaching practicesin the Saudi Arabian public sector and translation practices in the private sector.