Communicating with Parents of Latino English Language Learners: Is Google Translate an Accurate Option?

Abstract

ABSTRACT This research article examines the accuracy of using Google Translate as a means to offer native language, e-mail communication between teachers and parents of Latino English Language Learners (ELLs). To this end, an elementary teacher’s e-mail message was translated by Google Translate and certified translators and then evaluated and compared according to fluency, adequacy, meaning, and severity as outlined in previous studies. A paired sample t-test yielded a significant difference in the evaluation scores of the Google translation (3.85) and the certified translation (4.86). The evaluators perceived the Google translation as roughly 75% accurate and documented errors related to literal translation, inconsistent register or formality, and overuse of punctuation. Regardless of the errors noted in the Google translation, the evaluators indicate that the translation maintained strong conveyance of meaning. These findings suggest that Google Translate may have limited feasibility for communicating with Spanish-speaking parents via e-mail, because it maintains a significant portion of meaning from the original English message. The article concludes with recommendations for future research.