AI Assistant - Translation

1.

Machine Translation: How it Works and Tools To Choose From, Builin, February 2024. (Article)

The Ethical Considerations of AI in Translation: Preserving Cultural Sensitivity,  Verbal Trans, August 2023 (Article)

Why Should I Read This?

Machine translation powers the translation abilities of Generative AI and large language models. Understanding how it works can help users take advantage of its benefits and limitations. 

How can you build protections for students against the potential unintended misconceptions with context, flaws, and biases present in these tools? 

Ethical Use

Language is more than just words; it conveys meaning, context, and cultural nuances. It's important to fully understand these elements to ensure accurate communication. When translating sensitive or complex messages, it's best to consult a native speaker to capture the subtleties. Alternatively, using a language model can be helpful, but it's not always the most reliable method for grasping the full depth of context and meaning.

Convert a welcome letter you have for parents to kick off the school year to another language using a translator tool of your choice. Some popular ones are Google Translate and Magic School Text Translator. 

Upload both versions into ChatGPT or an LLM of your choice. Create prompts to evaluate if the translation was effective or needs improvements. 

Example Prompts

Language and Grammar: Evaluate whether the translated text uses correct and natural English grammar, sentence structure, and vocabulary. Does the translation sound fluent and natural, as if originally written in English?

Content Accuracy: Compare the translated text with the original document. Check if the translation accurately conveys the original text's meaning, tone, and intent. Are there any significant errors, omissions, or additions?

Terminology and Consistency: Verify that specific terminology, names, and technical terms are translated correctly and consistently throughout the document. Are there any terms that seem out of place or incorrectly translated?

Cultural and Contextual Relevance: Assess whether the translation respects cultural nuances and context. Are idioms, expressions, and cultural references appropriately adapted or explained?

2.

ChatGPT Tutorial - How to use Chat GPT for Learning and Practicing English, 2023. (Video 2:1)

Why Should I Watch This?

Providing students with a way to support their language acquisitions outside of the classroom and even within it independently will transform ESL learners and non-native speakers, enabling them to progress faster, engage at a deeper level in school culture, and increase educational outcomes. 

What application do you see for using GenAI to provide differentiation and targeted feedback to your students who are not native English speakers? 

Ethical Use

All ways ensure that the technology supports rather than replaces human interaction, maintaining a balance between technological assistance and personal educational guidance.  

Watch the video below to learn how to create live captions in Microsoft PowerPoint and Google Slides. Then, practice using these tools to provide real-time language translation during a presentation. 

3.

How Artificial Intelligence (AI) Helps Improve Accessibility, AT&T March 2004 (Article)

AI-Powered Tools for People Who Are Blind, The Light House for the Blind, November 2023 (Article) 

New AI tool describes surrounding to visually impaired people NBC News, 2023 (Video 3:05)

Indian Student Uses AI to Translate ASl In Real Time, POCIT March 2023 (Article) 

Why Should I Read and Watch?

AI has provided and continues to create new ways to support people with disabilities. AI’s translation capabilities provide support beyond text and voice translation. GEN AI can transcribe images and sounds. 

As you reflect on the information in the shared resources, how can you utilize this technology to support and enhance your school's community?

Ethical Use

You may not be aware of the various disabilities that guardians and household members of your students might have, leading to accessibility challenges. Reach out to families to understand if AI transcription tools could increase inclusivity and enhance their engagement in their child's learning and school activities

Try out Hand Talk ASLTranslator, available on Apple and Chrome devices. It can translate text or voice into ASL. Please keep in mind this is new technology and may not always be 100% accurate.