Basis and methods in audiovisual translation, localisation of computer products and video games, and translation automation

^{*recognition of ECTS depends on your home university}

Physical mobility

The physical mobility section of the BIP will take place between 3 - 7 November 2025, in Cantoblanco Campus of the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid. The daily classes will be held between 15:00 - 19:00 CET.

The physical component will involve intensive workshops, group discussions, and practical applications of the concepts learned virtually. Activities will include:

• workshops on audiovisual translation: students will engage in hands-on exercises, such as translating video game dialogues or software interfaces, paying close attention to cultural nuances and technical limitations in audiovisual translation;
• guest lectures and industry insights: experts from the localisation industry will provide real-world insights into current trends, including the integration of machine translation in audiovisual content and localisation workflows;
• interactive group projects: students will work together to analyse and locate a sample product (e.g. a website, software interface, or video game). They will incorporate aspects of the GILT process, using both traditional and machine-assisted translation methods;
• technical demonstrations: students will experience practical applications of translation automation tools and localisation software, such as CAT tools, machine translation integration into audiovisual projects, and subtitling software;
• cultural localisation error identification: participants will examine and correct localisation errors in physical product samples (e.g. software applications, video content), fostering critical thinking and problem-solving in real-world scenarios.

Virtual part

The virtual component of the course will be held between 20 - 31 October 2025 and will provide foundational knowledge and allow students to explore key concepts of audiovisual translation, machine translation, and localisation. The content will be delivered through a blend of asynchronous materials and synchronous virtual discussions. Activities will include:

• pre-recorded lectures introducing localisation in the context of translation work, focusing on the Globalisation, Internationalisation, Localisation, Translation (GILT) process and its significance in the localisation industry;
• case studies exploring various types of localisable products (websites, apps, video games) and practical examples of the GILT process in each context;
• interactive modules on machine translation tools and software used in audiovisual translation, including the use of AI in translation workflows. Students will be introduced to tools such as Google Translate, DeepL, and AI-based video subtitling systems;
• collaborative forums where students analyse cultural, linguistic, and technical conventions in the localisation process, comparing examples from different media formats and regions;
• translation tasks and quizzes focusing on spotting localisation errors and applying solutions using machine translation tools, fostering hands-on practice in the virtual environment.

The class schedule:

• 20 October, 18:00 - 20:00 CET
• 22 October, 15:00 - 17:00 CET
• 24 October, 15:00 - 17:00 CET
• 27 October, 18:00 - 20:00 CET
• 29 October, 17:00 - 19:00 CET
• 31 October, 15:00 - 17:00 CET

Assessment

The teaching staff will follow the activities in theory-practice sessions, which will consist of readings, reflections, applications and practical exercises of the theory according to the methodology and approaches proposed. At the end of each course, students will be asked to take a test covering the studied content. 

The evaluation will focus on the student's ability to demonstrate theoretical understanding, practical applications, and collaborative competencies throughout the programme. At the end of the course, students must:

• demonstrate a clear understanding of the principles of audiovisual translation, localisation workflows, and the integration of translation automation tools;
• have achieved proficiency in using industry-standard tools, including CAT platforms, subtitling software, and machine translation systems;
• identify and resolve localisation errors and challenges in real-world scenarios effectively;
• work effectively in multicultural and interdisciplinary teams, contributing to group projects and discussions;
• provide evidence of independent study and preparation during the virtual component, contributing to active participation in the physical phase.