The aim of this paper is to provide a brief overview of computer-assisted translation (CAT) and to describe an approach to training beginners at undergraduate level.
A general introduction will first explain some terminological issues and present the main modules of current CAT tools as well as their usage requirements. The role played by CAT tools for language professionals will then be discussed on the basis of the findings from a recent survey.
The paper will go on to describe a possible method for training beginners in using CAT. The workshop held on this topic at the SSLMIT of Trieste in May 2006 will serve as a reference. Some initial comments will be devoted to the workshop objectives and overall structure before outlining the main topics covered in the introductory as well as in the hands-on part of the workshop. The description will focus on the choices made in the workshop planning, with particular reference to the hands-on experience.
Finally, the results of a survey conducted among the participants will be presented in order to underline their interest on this topic.
