What does research have to say about the future of translation and technology? Argentina’s Colegio de Traductores de la Provincia de Santa Fe, primera circunscripción (CTPSFPC) hosted a talk in August on this theme led by Dr Miguel Varela, who explored the present and future of translation as it relates to technology, with particular emphasis on machine translation (MT) and artificial intelligence (AI). Drawing from extensive formal research on the use of technology in translation, Dr Varela’s presentation was of particular interest to professionals, trainers, and students in the field. The session provided an opportunity not only to gain insight into the current state of technology, but also to reflect on how we, as a profession, should approach a phenomenon that is here to stay.
The main topics he covered included technology, context, recent advancements and hype, speed and quality, sworn translation, and the intersection of MT, AI, and the future of the profession. Notably, before the talk, Dr Varela surveyed attendees about how they use technology. He revealed and analysed the results during the session, shedding light on the current reality of technology usage. This prompted us to rethink and consider what the statistics forecast for the times ahead and what the future holds for our profession in the coming years.
In addition to this local initiative, CTPSFPC also participated at the regional level in a conference titled ‘Responsibility, consequences, and limits of artificial intelligence in professional practice’, organised by the Forum of Professional Associations of the Central Region of Argentina. This forum brings together professionals from the provinces of Santa Fe, Córdoba, and Entre Ríos in Argentina, aiming to foster synergies and policies that bring the regions closer together. During the conference, CTPSFPC President Silvia Bacco addressed the impact of AI on translation. Such efforts underscore the commitment of authorities and professionals to fostering an environment of learning and adaptation to new technologies, thereby securing a more prosperous future for all.