Advancing Interpreting and Translation Practices Through Digital and AI‑Supported Tools

Course overview

This course is delivered across two 4-hour interactive sessions, each focusing on a different dimension of contemporary interpreting and translation practice.

Participants will have the flexibility to attend either one of the days or both.

Course details

Day 1: Interpreting.

When: August 22

Time: 9:30-14:00

Introduces participants to a range of digital tools used in interpreting, with a focus on externalising effort during delivery, and reducing cognitive load in real-time, technology-mediated environments. These include terminology look-up tools, ASR prompting systems, and CAI workstations. Day 1 also addresses the often-overlooked after SI-phase, including self-monitoring, portfolio building, and extra services as integral parts of professional development.

Day 2: Translation.

When: August 23

Time: 9:30-14:00

Explores digital tools through a translation lens, focusing on workflow design, text-based processing, and the integration of AI-supported tools to enhance efficiency and consistency.

Across both sessions, participants will engage in guided demonstrations and hands-on activities, developing practical strategies to streamline workflows, enhance quality, and work more effectively with digital technologies.

Both sessions are structured around a workflow design model by organising tools according to when and why they are used across a professional assignment. Rather than recommending specific products, each session draws on a curated overview of free, freemium and open-source solutions, giving participants the flexibility to explore and adopt tools that are immediately accessible.

The sessions also highlight tools designed for collaborative preparation, including shared glossary building, joint terminology memorisation, and group brainstorming.

The course is suitable for both those new to digital tools and those looking to refine and systematise their existing practice.

Who is the course for?

• Professional interpreters and translators
• Freelancers seeking to modernise their workflows
• Practitioners interested in AI-supported tools and platforms
• Those looking to increase efficiency without compromising quality

Fees and booking

*Lunch is included in both sessions.

To register for this course, please complete the following Registration Form.

The registration deadline is Monday, 10 August.

Learning outcomes

• Confidently navigate key features of digital interpreting platforms
• Design template-based systems for recurring assignments
• Build a personalised workflow integrating multiple tools
• Apply technology strategically to reduce cognitive load and enhance performance

Course Requirements

Participants will need:

• A laptop for hands-on activities
• Access to:
• A range of free translation tools, a list will be provided for you to create individual trial accounts in advance of the sessions.
• A standard Zoom account (required for interpretation features)
• An LLM tool (free versions are sufficient)

We aim to provide centralised access to software trials where possible. If individual sign-up is required, full instructions will be shared in advance of the course.

About the Course Leader

Dr Xiaoman Wang is an Assistant Professor in Interpreting and Translation at Heriot-Watt University, specialising in interpreting studies and language technology.

Her work focuses on the integration of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and speech technologies into interpreting practice. She is particularly interested in how tools such as automatic speech recognition, large language models, and digital platforms can support interpreters in managing complexity, improving performance, and receiving more immediate, data-informed feedback.

Dr Wang’s research and teaching are closely aligned with current industry developments, including remote interpreting environments and technology-mediated workflows. She brings a practical, forward-looking perspective to interpreter training, supporting both emerging and experienced practitioners to confidently integrate digital tools into real-world professional contexts.

Accommodation

Limited rooms are available at affordable rates in our Paul Stobart building. To make a booking, please email frontdesk@hw.ac.uk

Single occupancy £108 per night

Double occupancy £138 per night

Visit our visitor accommodation for more details and alternative options.

Contact

For further information, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Dr Stacey Steen (S.Webb@hw.ac.uk) to discuss the available options.