Transcending language barriers: A consideration of automated translation in digital storytelling and language learning

Introduction:

In recent years, the convergence of digital technology and language education has paved the way for pedagogical change. This document reconsiders my Three Minute Thesis script, presented in the first year of a PhD programme, now revisited through the application of HeyGen automated translation software. The aim is to consider the pedagogical implications of such technology in the context of digital storytelling. From a researcher's perspective, this is part of a wider investigation into how this tool can be used in school environments to support and enhance students' language learning processes.

Context of this document:

The research, which began with abstract concepts in the early stages of my PhD, has now come to fruition. The content I submitted for the Year 1 Three Minute Thesis competition has evolved to focus on the practical application of digital storytelling in language learning. This evolution from a theoretical idea to a specific project can reflect the dynamic aspect of academic research and its application.

The use of HeyGen software, known for its automated translation capabilities, is not simply being explored as a tool to increase the accessibility of educational content across language barriers. Rather, this phase of the research aims to explore a fundamental question: Can the sophisticated features of automated translation, which include maintaining the speaker's original intonation and lip-syncing, stimulate students' curiosity about language learning? This feature could potentially immerse them in the acquisition of a variety of languages, thereby facilitating an educational environment conducive to language learning. It may be an additional milestone in research to consider how such advanced translation tools can support an engaging and effective learning experience.

Methodology:

The methodology involved revising the original thesis presentation using HeyGen software to translate the content into multiple languages. The process aimed to identify an aspect of language learning that may be relevant in the contemporary environment, namely understanding and accessing content across language barriers.

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Three Minute Thesis - English Version

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Thèse de Trois Minutes - Version Française

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Tesis de Tres Minutos - Versión en Español

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Dreiminuten-Thesis - Deutsche Version

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Exploratory discussion:

• Constructivist learning theory: Can automated translation tools facilitate a constructivist learning environment where students actively construct their own understanding and knowledge of the world by experiencing things and reflecting on those experiences?

• Multimodal learning theory: How does the integration of visual (translated text), auditory (spoken language) and kinaesthetic (interaction with the translation tool) modalities facilitate or inhibit the learning process?

• Sociocultural theory of language development: How can automated translation facilitate language acquisition in line with Vygotsky's views on the fundamental role of social interaction in the development of cognition?

Conclusions and future directions:

The integration of tools such as HeyGen software into digital storytelling can be considered a potentially valuable addition to language learning. Future research directions could be identified, focusing on a more in-depth exploration of the long-term pedagogical implications of such technologies.

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