Unveiling students’ experiences and perspectives of generative AI-assisted translation in a Hong Kong university: perceived benefits, limitations, and suggestions

Abstract

Although recent studies have revealed the benefits of GenAI on language education, little is known about students’ experiences and perspectives on the utilization of these tools in assisting their translation practices - one of the main ways students apply digital tools to support language learning. Therefore, the current study employed in-depth interviews to explore six Hong Kong university students’ perceived benefits and limitations of GenAI-assisted translation, and suggestions they provided for students and translation programs to use GenAI tools in translation. The findings revealed that participants identified several benefits of GenAI-assisted translation, including increased translation efficiency, high capabilities in specific domains, supportive functions for translation practices, and emotional support. Nevertheless, restricted translation performance, information leakage, time and energy requested to develop quality prompt engineering skills, and negative impacts on translators and employment were recognized. Some suggestions related to the establishment of GenAI guidelines and policies, course development, provision of GenAI-incorporated activities or materials, and supplementary GenAI training were proposed for the future development of the translation program. The study helps us have a more holistic understanding of the benefits and limitations of GenAI-assisted translation. It also provides valuable insights to translation teachers and program directors to refine the current translation courses and programs to equip students with the capabilities to respond to the rapid development of GenAI tools.