eContent localisation
To be efficient, eContent localisation relies heavily on specialised computer tools like Translation Memory applications and Software Localisation systems. Not only do these tools require intensive training, but their integration into traditional translation classes also demands the development of didactic concepts and methodologies.
Accordingly, the building of eContent localisation expertise is a high-impact priority. There is a strong need to develop the training of teachers and trainers in professional translation, so that they are ready to face current needs and challenges and educate the kind of people the market is looking for. This is the issue eCoLoTrain addresses, thus trying to remedy the "severe skills shortage" identified in the EC-sponsored SPICE-PREP II report on eContent localisation.
Innovative training opportunities
The main goal of eCoLoTrain is to develop and test innovative training opportunities for trainers and teachers in the field of professional translation. It takes into account the specific methodological needs of these professionals in order to achieve a broad and sustained improvement of their ICT skills in general and eContent localisation skills in particular.
eCoLoTrain strategically targets trainers in all translation-related sectors, i.e., academe, professional associations and industry, in as many of the 25 EC Member States as possible, as well as in the Candidate Countries. eCoLo-Train also addresses those trainers and teachers working in community language translation, a field gaining ever more relevance in a globalising world.
Methologies, guidelines, and course materials
The main output of the project will be a set of methodologies, guidelines and course materials tested in multiple teaching scenarios ranging from academic courses to vocational training provided by professional organisations. eCoLoTrain will focus on didactic models assisting teachers and trainers in integrating localisation technology into traditional translation classes as well as on methods of adjusting raw materials developed to individual educational needs in different teaching scenarios.
Developing a curriculum
This goal is to be achieved by developing a detailed curriculum for continuous eContent localisation training and providing content for the individual curriculum courses. Apart from the courses in the curriculum, the project will also develop general guidelines for the creation of similar training courses in the field. Moreover, the methodological materials will offer guidance in combining localisation technology with various types of traditional translation classes and teaching scenarios paying particular attention to the didactic needs of the target group.
eCoLoTrain will be the first initiative to develop and test a dedicated curriculum that can be easily adjusted to different institutional and national needs, including community languages. It will contribute to paving the road for a much more market-oriented education through a large-scale introduction of eContent localisation methods and tools into general and specialised translation classes.
Responding to needs of targeted groups
Freely downloadable from the eCoLoTrain website, the curriculum and the materials will be based on the results of a comprehensive training needs analysis conducted by the partner professional associations, ITI and BDÜ.
A unique collaboration between industry and academe, integrating the know-how of leading suppliers of ICT systems for translators and the experience of academic partners in designing continuous vocational training will ensure relevance and responsiveness to the needs of the targeted groups.
We believe that all sectors of the economy will gain from the existence of a larger pool of trainers that are able to integrate market-relevant ICT tools and skills into professional translation teaching in order to provide today’s students with the knowledge and skills needed to meet the requirements of the localisation market.