Training Translators in Spain: Key Elements for the Integration of Translation Technologies into the Specialised Translation Classroom

Abstract

The rapid evolution of technology and the increasing complexity of language services have fundamentally altered the landscape of the language industry. The disruptive changes that this industry has undergone in recent decades have direct and profound consequences for the training of future translators. In the Spanish context, university curricula have traditionally evolved at a much slower pace compared to the industry’s dynamic nature. This lag in adaptation means that academic programmes are not updating as swiftly as necessary to meet new societal and market demands. From a didactic standpoint, it is particularly challenging to determine the training needed by future language industry professionals at a time of change and uncertainty, such as the present one, without knowing for sure what the future will be, at least as far as translation technology (TT) is concerned. Consequently, designing curricula that can adequately prepare students for the evolving demands of the industry is a complex task. This uncertainty underscores the need for a more agile and responsive approach to curriculum design. The main objective of this article is to identify the key elements of curriculum design necessary for training translators in Spain, specifically in relation to current practices in the industry concerning TT. Given the fast-paced changes within the language industry, it seems essential to consider a process that emphasises relatively immediate adaptations. These adaptations should be capable of being incrementally incorporated by trainers into the teaching and learning environments of specialised translation. By focusing on such immediate actions, trainers can ensure that their training programmes remain relevant and effective, equipping future translators with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a rapidly changing industry. This approach advocates for a dynamic and flexible curriculum that evolves in tandem with technological advancements and industry trends.