Module MELA48130: AI in Translation and Localisation

Department: Modern Languages and Cultures

MELA48130: AI in Translation and Localisation

Prerequisites

• None

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• This module aims to introduce students to the key concepts, methods and tools involved in AI-supported translation and localisation. Developed in collaboration with industry professionals, it enables students to understand underpinning technologies (including neural machine translation and large language models), apply them in practical localisation workflows, and critically evaluate their impact on professional practice, quality assurance and the user experience. Through authentic, industry-aligned learning activities, students will gain insight into current trends and expectations within the language services sector, preparing them for emerging roles in an AI-driven global content environment.

Content

• Overview of AI in translation and localisation
• AI integration within professional workflows
• Key concepts, current trends, implications and ethical considerations
• Developing practical skills for linguists working with AI
• Effective prompting and optimisation strategies for human-AI collaboration
• Best practices for reviewing, editing, post-editing, and managing AI-generated content
• Evolving roles and career pathways for linguists in an AI-enabled industry
• Introduction to different localisation domains (e.g., software, website, game)

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate a critical understanding of how AI technologies are used in translation and localisation
• Evaluate professional workflows that incorporate AI and automation within multilingual content management
• Analyse key concepts, technological developments, and trends in AI-driven language services
• Discuss the ethical, societal and professional implications of AI in translation and localisation contexts
• Compare different localisation domains (e.g. software, websites, game) in terms of their workflows and technical requirements

• Apply AI-enabled tools effectively to support translation and localisation tasks
• Use prompting and optimisation techniques to improve the performance of AI systems
• Review, edit and post-edit AI-generated content to meet professional quality expectations
• Manage and process multilingual digital content using industry-relevant tools and platforms
• Select and justify appropriate human–AI collaboration strategies for different project scenarios
• Communicate translation and localisation decisions clearly to clients and technical collaborators

• Work effectively in technology-rich professional environments
• Demonstrate adaptability and initiative in response to rapid technological change and evolving industry demands
• Develop interpersonal and teamwork skills

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Teaching will take place over 10 weeks in Term 3, with 2 contact hours per week, combining lectures, practicals and a seminar.
• Formative assessments, including presentations and group projects, will provide feedback to support students’ development of both conceptual understanding and practical skills.
• The summative assessment will comprise two individual projects: a translation project and a localisation project, each accompanied by a commentary. Although students will complete both practical components, assessment will be based solely on the commentaries. Through these, students will demonstrate their ability to use AI-enabled tools effectively, evaluate the quality of outputs, and engage in critical reflection on their professional decision-making.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

In-class presentations Student-led group project work and discussions

■ Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.