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Article published In: Translation, Cognition & Behavior
Vol. 3:2 (2020) ► pp.145–164

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MT Literacy—A cognitive view

ORCiD logo with link | Dublin City University
ORCiD logo with link | Zurich University of Applied Sciences
Published online: 10 November 2020
DOI logo with link
https://doi.org/10.1075/tcb.00038.obr
Abstract
MT literacy means knowing how MT works, how the technology can be useful in a particular context, and what the implications are of using it for various purposes. As MT usage grows, the necessity for MT literacy also grows. This knowledge forms part of the greater need for digital literacies. In this contribution, we relate MT literacy to the concept of cognitive load in professional translation production and in translator training scenarios. We then move beyond the sphere of translation studies to examine other use-case settings—crisis communication, academic writing and patent publishing—to consider how MT can offer solutions and how MT literacy can impact cognitively in those settings. We discuss how training in MT literacy can empower language professionals and present two proposals for course content designed for MT users in other sectors.
Article outline
  • 1.What is machine translation literacy?
  • 2.Why MT literacy is important
  • 3.MT literacy and cognitive load in translation production
  • 4.MT literacy and cognitive load in other use-case scenarios
    • 4.1MT literacy and crisis communication
    • 4.2Academic writing and MT literacy
    • 4.3MT literacy in the patent process
  • 5.Training and empowerment
  • 6.Conclusion
  • Notes
  • References
References (58)
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