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In our ever-changing world of technology, we learn to conduct and perform business, education and many other areas of our lives differently. Case in point: eLearning. If you haven’t heard of it before, eLearning is a method of education which is conducted completely electronically via the Internet.
Different from the traditional classroom, eLearning can refer to a course, program, or even degree that is obtained completely online. The success of these programs depends on the self-motivation of individuals. Unlike a classroom, students have to study and complete tasks without a push from instructors.
As an instructor of an eLearning course, you are able to map out the course, and encourage interaction and discussion from the students via your specific platform. In a lot of ways, you are able to get more out of your students through an eLearning course.
However, there are instances where an educational online course proves challenging for you and hinders your student’s learning. For many reasons, translating your eLearning course is a great thing to do. You can reach a wider spectrum of students, and the translation services will better equip your students with full understanding and knowledge.
But, keep in mind: the process of translating your course materials has the potential to go incredibly wrong. There are certain mistakes you should avoid, for a less stressful and more successful translation.
We have equipped you with a few tips and tricks to avoid a confusing or less productive educational platform. Here are five fatal mistakes to avoid when translating your eLearning course materials.
1. Using images that aren’t translation friendly.
Images and graphics are key in eLearning courses. However, if you use images that aren’t relatable, or text on the navigation icons/images isn’t translated, your student will likely disengage from the learning process.
When a student cannot connect or understand something, their learning is hindered, which makes your eLearning course ineffective. Avoid using images with culture-specific icons and gestures. Opt for something that is globally recognizable, such as an envelope for an email icon. Certain signs and gestures are easily identifiable in the U.S., but are not identifiable, or could even be offensive, to an international student.
2. Not doing enough research.
As with anything, for a successful outcome you need to perform enough research. If you want your audience or students to have the opportunity to reach their goals, you need to make sure you know the culture and background of your audience. You want to best serve your students for an optimal learning experience.
3. Using slang or culture-specific jargon.
As with images, you should avoid using slang or jargon that is specific to your culture. A word or saying that is widely known and recognizable in one culture could be completely misconstrued in another.
You don’t want to confuse your audience, and you definitely do not want to offend them. You want to add value to your eLearning course, and provide international or foreign students the opportunity to learn and grow.
Avoid using slang and jargon altogether. This way, you ensure that nothing will possibly confuse or offend someone and slow down his or her learning.
4. Not having a script for video/audio.
A great aspect of a completely online course is the ability that you have as an instructor to use videos and audio elements. These could be uploaded or used in real time, and you have the vast world of the Internet in which to find video elements that will add to the learning experience.
Again, you should make sure the video or audio does not contain the culture-specific jargon or gestures mentioned earlier. Additionally, you need to make sure all elements are properly translated. This includes the use of a detailed script with time markers. A script is essential – if you don’t have one, get your materials transcribed for translation.
5. Not leaving enough space for translated text.
Along with making sure the language and image aspects of your course are detailed enough, you also should pay attention to the quality of your course. Even if you use the best, high-quality translation, it won’t make a difference if it cannot fit into your template or layout.
Some languages will take up more or less space on the screen, meaning you will need ample space for adding translated text. Make sure your layout and font work well with any and all translated text. It should be pleasing to the eyes with plenty of (but not too much) blank space.
Learning the specific images/words to use or avoid will provide your students with an optimal learning experience. To ensure full familiarity with the culture you wish to make your material available to, use the services of a professional translation provider. They are equipped with the full knowledge and understanding of not just the language, but also the culture behind it, and you can rely on their servicesfor translating business, legal, medical, and educational materials.
