Exploring the Use of Google Translate in English Language Learning for Non-English Students at University of Bengkulu

Abstract

Learning another language is still difficult for students, particularly non-English department students. Students find various resources to help them study English, and Google Translate (GT) is a valuable tool that has quickly become a favorite among them. The purpose of this study is to determine the perceptions of electrical engineering students regarding the use of Google Translate to learn English. There are two objectives: (1) to figure out how frequently learners use GT in their learning, and (2) to evaluate how GT influences their learning. In this study, a descriptive qualitative method was applied. 30 Electrical Study Program students at the Faculty of Engineering and 30 Accounting Study Program students at the Faculty of Economic and Business in the University of Bengkulu were chosen as research participants. The instrument of the research was the questionnaire with three indicators, i.e., frequency of using Google Translate, the function of using Google Translate in learning English, and the issues found in using Google Translate. The findings proved that using GT as a translation tool for learning English can improve their vocabulary abilities. Besides, GT can detect grammatical faults and semantic inaccuracies. However, Google Translate has some issues, such as errors in translating a certain context. After discussing the students' perspectives of GT and its role in learning, it is believed that GT can be a valuable resource for learners to strengthen their language skills in the future.