Found in translation

Technology is available to help students who struggle with English

Coming to school with English as an additional language can present both opportunities and challenges for students. In addition, if parents or guardians are also new to English, including them as partners in learning may require additional tools and strategies. Fortunately, several classroom technologies offer translation features that can reduce communication barriers between teachers, students and parents.

Instructional materials

These productivity tools are readily available and offer translation features that can quickly translate the text in any document or presentation into more than 100 languages.

Screen shot of M S Word translate tool — Microsoft Office Suite > Review Tab

Screen shot of Google Education Suite translate tool — Google for Education Suite > Tools Menu

Screen shot of DeepL translate tool — DeepL Translate > Deep.com/translator

Some teachers note that the translations are not perfect, but being able to offer classroom materials in a different language may help students and parents complete subject-area assignments as they learn English.

Home communication materials

Canva for Education is an example of a tool that’s free for teachers. It can be used to create classroom newsletters and other documents. The Magic Switch menu offers instant translation into more than 100 languages.

Live conversational language

Numerous free smartphone apps can translate live speech into other languages.

As teachers continue to offer numerous inclusive supports to students and their families, consider how translation tools may help reduce communication barriers for those who are learning English.

Icons for Google, Microsoft and Apple translate tools

Tech Tip

Classroomscreen is a versatile app that helps teachers support students with important information like schedules, timers and noise levels. The tool is essentially an online whiteboard that contains a variety of apps that are quick and easy to access. It’s customizable with a variety of backgrounds and colours to fit your classroom.

The Classroomscreen app is available at classroomscreen.com.

Contact ETCATA

For more support using technology in your classroom, contact the Educational Technology Council of the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ETCATA) at etc.teachers.ab.ca.