Language is a powerful tool that helps students learn, grow, and develop. According to DoTefl, there are approximately 1.5 billion English learners worldwide, with many learning English at school. Educational institutions that lack interpretation services can have a detrimental impact on many students’ learning journeys.
Non-native speakers should have equal opportunities to understand educational materials and lessons at school. So, how can interpretation services aid educators with standardization and equality in the classroom? Translating educational content for non-native speakers can transform their learning environment and help students thrive.
Let’s explore the impact of interpretation services on the education sector and how it can affect non-native speakers in the learning environment.
Understanding Interpretation Services
An interpretation service can remove the language barrier for students in real time so that they don’t miss out on valuable lessons. There are several variations of interpretation services that educational establishments should be aware of including:
- Telephone interpretation services
- Consecutive interpreting
- Bilateral interpreting
- Whisper interpreting
- Simultaneous interpreting
In addition to these traditional methods, on-demand translation services represent a pivotal advancement in educational technology. Offering instant access to interpretation can significantly enhance the learning experience for non-native speakers by providing real-time, accessible translation of spoken words. This service is especially beneficial in dynamic classroom settings where immediate understanding is crucial.
There are various other types of interpreting for legal and public sector environments that could also be useful to schools and colleges.
Challenges Faced by Non-native Speakers in Education
The absence of language diversity in educational settings poses many challenges for non-native speakers. Through no fault of their own, students double their workload and create additional barriers for themselves by attempting to translate learning materials.
Communication Issues
Non-native speakers may lack confidence in the classroom and participate less in classroom activities. Students may be reluctant to communicate with their teachers for fear of being judged. Communication between students, parents, and teachers is one of the most important elements of a successful school career.
Isolation and Discrimination
Participating in activities and lesson discussions is more difficult for non-native speakers who may not understand idioms and figures of speech in their second language. This can lead to feelings of exclusion and insecurity.
Additional Workload
Many educators are unaware of the invisible workload that non-native speakers carry. Understanding lesson topics alongside learning a language is a difficult task for students of all ages. It can be challenging to keep up with the demands of coursework and learning objectives alongside learning an unfamiliar language.
The Positive Impact of Interpretation Services
Providing interpretation services within schools is not only a learning consideration but also a cultural one. As education settings become more diverse and inclusive, assisting students with language difficulties can make a huge difference. Learners who feel seen and heard in all aspects are more likely to succeed and feel included within the classroom environment.
Alongside cultural considerations, removing the language barrier and assisting with translation allows students to focus their time on learning rather than worrying about communicating and understanding.
Educational Inclusivity and Access
Learning should be fun and exciting for students and involve various educational activities and lessons. Interpretation and translation services help students feel included and involved in classroom activities by relieving stress caused by language barriers. Translating lesson plans and content also gives non-native speakers the same access to learning as their peers.
Challenges and Limitations of Interpretation Services
Of course, there are difficulties in the interpretation and translation process when dealing with cultural differences and language nuances. For example, there are many rhythmic and idiomatic differences between Spanish and English when translating documents and interpreting dialogue. Some other examples of challenges and limitations include the following:
- Translators must have a deep understanding of both languages
- Cultural differences, slang, or jargon
- Interpreting difficult or technical subjects
- Communicating tone and meaning
Overcoming challenges and limitations within interpreting and translation is common for many professional, experienced translation service providers (TSPs). It is important for education facilities to choose companies that deeply understand their chosen languages to create useful and culturally sensitive services for students and teachers.
Final Thoughts
In summary, including interpretation services in an educational setting can improve teacher-student relationships and allow parents to build rapport with school staff. Removing the language barrier can allow students to flourish and grow with the support of their peers, parents, and teachers. Consider using interpretation services within your educational institution to improve the lives of your students.