Translation as a Learning Method in English Language Teaching

Abstract

The present paper focuses on the use of translation in helping learners to acquire, develop and strengthen their knowledge and competence in the English language. Translation integrated into the language learning practice along with generally used learning activities, such as reading, listening, writing, and vocabulary development could be defined as a “pedagogical tool”, considering that its purpose is to teach a language. Translation activities make students communicate both ways: into and from the foreign language. While translating students are incited to notice differences in structure and vocabulary, to strengthen grammatical competence, to shape their own way of thinking and to correct common mistakes that could otherwise remain unnoticed. Students can make the best out of their learning, if they are encouraged to use translation skills properly. Translation activities are used in the advanced English learning programmes at Kaunas University of Technology (KTU). This paper is based on a brief theoretical literature overview, analysis of the activities in the language classroom and analysis of the results of the survey. The findings of the survey suggest that translation is a good tool in the English language learning course aimed at enhancement of students’ foreign language skills. Key