A Mixed-Methods Study of Machine Translation Use Among Undergraduate Translation Students: Practices, Challenges, and Perceived Limitations

Abstract

Mustapha Benkharafa and Mohammad Hussein Hamdan

This study examines the extent to which undergraduate students majoring in translation utilize machine translation (MT), the challenges they encounter while employing such tools, and the differences they perceive between machine and human translation. Focusing on a sample of 30 male students from the Department of Translation and English Language at Imam Muhammad Bin Saud Islamic University, this research adopted a mixed-methods approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative data. A carefully designed questionnaire served as the primary instrument for collecting data, offering insight into both behavioral patterns and subjective experiences.

The results demonstrate that students frequently employ machine translation tools—most notably Google Translate—as an aid in completing academic tasks, especially when dealing with unfamiliar terminology or complex texts. However, their reliance is tempered by significant concerns. Participants identified various limitations of MT, including issues with syntactic and semantic accuracy, cultural insensitivity, lack of contextual awareness, and inconsistency in output. Additionally, the cost of accessing premium translation resources and dictionaries was cited as a barrier to effective translation.

Importantly, the study highlights a nuanced understanding among students: while MT offers substantial support, it is not viewed as a replacement for human translation. Human translators are valued for their ability to interpret meaning, adapt tone, and incorporate cultural and contextual knowledge—competencies that remain beyond the scope of current MT technologies. These findings suggest the necessity of integrating machine translation literacy into translation pedagogy, ensuring that students are equipped with the skills to critically evaluate and effectively use MT tools alongside human judgment.

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