Learner Perceptions of Using Machine Translation Tools in the EFL Classroom

Abstract

There is growing interest in the use of machine translation (MT) as tools to scaffold second and foreign language learning. However, at present, there is minimal investigation of EFL learners’ perceptions of using MT tools to facilitate their academic reading in EAP classes. To explore EFL learners’ views on using MT in an EAP class, participants were introduced to online translation tools and given time to read research articles. They then completed a survey of their perceptions of MT. In accordance with previous research, results indicated that most participants spent less than a quarter of their time using MT. They typically used MT to translate the articles they were required to read for the class and translated materials tended to be words and phrases. In general, as with findings from prior studies, learners perceived MT to be useful as well as facilitating their L2 literacy. Particular strengths mentioned included convenience and ability to read text faster. Limitations mentioned included doubts about the veracity of translations, over-reliance on MT, and suspicions about long-term retention of new vocabulary learned through MT. Based on these findings, we can conclude that MT has the potential to be a valuable tool in the EAP classroom.