Everyone has heard of e-learning, but what about e-learning localization? E-Learning Localization is the process of translating the sections in an online course into multiple languages and keeping a cultural awareness in the process. This is one step beyond simple e-learning translation because it ensures that classroom materials are even more relatable to students because they are in the right language and don’t conflict with their cultural norms.
E-learning localization can be very beneficial to the company or school for a few reasons. Firstly, more languages mean more people can participate in your classes, and thus your target audience broadens. When you broaden that audience, the e-learning products or classes you offer will be far better received and respected when you use e-learning localization. With more attention given to your company or school’s online education by prospective students and clients, the more business and credibility it will gain! Here are 7 tips for e-learning localization that can help bring value to your business.
Decide your target locations for e-learning localization
Firstly, conduct thorough research in regards to education and the cultures you’re translating for. What are the learning preferences and norms in your target languages and cultures? What are the cultural norms that might apply to classroom situations there?
Create a prototype of your web materials as they’ll look post e-learning localization
When you decide to translate your website or learning materials, create a prototype first. That way, you will be able to evaluate all the possible forms of the layouts, formats, pictures, texts or the navigation in order to decide which one is better.
E-learning localization and formality of language
Try using more formal language and avoid the slang. There are several references, phrases or idioms that are not universal and may not have the same meaning in other languages. Moreover, some languages, such as Arabic, are written from right to left. Others when translated create a shorter or longer text, which requires adequate space on the website. Language service companies offering e-learning translation services and desktop publishing services can help with these language challenges.
Use certified translators for e-learning localization
For a successful e-learning localization implementation, a professional website translation is paramount. A website translation company like Language Connections will specialize in that.
Don’t miss the cultural differences
The value of cultural awareness often gets dismissed. Namely, some colors, words, gestures, names, and more may have different meanings in some counties or be offensive in some others. Neutralize your website content by adding internationally accepted formats, layouts, graphics and visuals to avoid any misunderstandings. Also, don’t forget that some countries have different currency or measurements. For example, Europe uses the metric system.
Use a 3rd party linguistic
Hiring a linguistic reviewer could help your business by assessing and validating your localized content. A company that provides website translation services could assist your business with that issue.
Invest in simulations
When you have decided how your website is going to look, create a simulation of it. This allows you to get feedback and determine the correctness and efficiency of the website before it is actually developed.
About Language Connections:
Language Connections is one of the top language service companies in the US. Over the last 30 years, we’ve focused on providing the best business translation services, interpreting services, as well as interpreter training and customized language training programs. In addition to top-tier corporate language training, we offer certified corporate interpreters and professional business translation services in 200+ languages. Our network includes linguists with backgrounds in all major industries. They’re ready to meet your needs, whether they’re for technical translation services, legal translation, government translation services, international development translation services, education translation services, life sciences translation, or something else. Reach out to us today for a free quote on our cost-efficient and timely translation services, interpreters, or other linguistic services.
Language Connections Inc.
2001 Beacon Street, Suite 105,
Boston, MA 02135
Phone: +1-617-731-3510
Email: service@languageconnections.com