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Guidelines for Translation Classes integrating Software Localisation

Teaching Scenarios

 

eCoLoTrain methodological-didactical guidelines for  Software Localisation (Software L10N)  are intended especially for translation teachers and CAT tools trainers – in particular localisation trainers – in the following general teaching scenarios:

 

  1. Courses in Language for Special Purposes (LSP) translation
  2. Software Localisation courses
  3. Software Localisation tools

In contrast to the guidelines developed for the eCoLoTrain terminology and translation memory courses, the present L10N guidelines do not cover the integration of software localisation in general translation classes, only in LSP translation classes because by definition localisable software files cannot be considered as general language text material.

Integrating software localisation in LSP translation classes is possible, but it may entail some difficulties. On one hand, software localisation is a very complex area in which – in addition to language and translation skills and the specific knowledge and skills in fields such as ICT, terminology, translation memory tools and project management, special knowledge is required by students and teachers in the fields of computer software and programming languages.

On the other, in LSP translation classes there is no time to cover all basic and important aspects of software localisation, which are necessary prerequisites for successfully teaching and learning software localisation. Therefore, only specific aspects of software L10N can be handled in LSP translation classes.

Structure

 

For our module on Software Localisation the guidelines will comprise all or some of the following sections according to the three teaching scenarios – integration of software localisation in LSP translation courses, courses in software localisation and courses in software localisation tools:

 

  • General prerequisites
  • Technical Prerequistes
  • Learning Objectives
  • Course Preparation Issues
  • Working Methodology

For more information on other possibilities of integrating software localisation in practical translation courses, please go to the Integrated Scenarios section, Translation Workflow IV and Translation Workflow V of the eCoLoTrain guidelines.

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