Computer-Assisted Translation Tools in Master Translation Programs in Yemeni Universities

Abstract

This study examines awareness, attitudes, usage of Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) tools among MA translation students and instructors in Yemeni universities, alongside CAT tools integration into MA programs. Employing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected via a questionnaire administered through Google Forms and a content analysis checklist of programs documents. The sample for quantitative data comprised 35 MA translation instructors and 72 second-semester and recently graduated students from five out of the seven Yemeni universities (three public and two private), selected through snowball sampling technique alongside with detection phone number application and short chats via contacts in social media as a result of challenges encountered in constructing a comprehensive sampling frame for the target population. For qualitative data, MA programs plans and the description of translation technology courses were collected from the same universities for the content analysis. Results indicated that 57.1% of instructors and 54.4% of students were aware of CAT tools with 46.5% expressing positive attitudes ( instructors 47.9%, students 45.2%). SDL Trados Studio and MemoQ were the most used tools with 46.9% and 34.9%, respectively, though usage was generally rare. The study revealed absence of dependent CAT tools courses across all institutions. IU proceeded with planned translation technologies in general including CAT tools. AU and UST so did but with minimal coverage of CAT tools. SU and YAGS had non-documented occasional courses in CAT tools. It recommended greater integration of CAT tools into curricula to better prepare students for industry demands and suggests avenues for future research.