Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic has presented unprecedented challenges across various sectors, including the translation field. In Saudi Arabia, the emergence of the pandemic created a range of challenges and adjustments for translators, particularly in relation to the language patterns and themes circulating on social media platforms such as Twitter. This study aims to identify these challenges and gain insights into the strategies employed by translators to navigate the rapidly changing landscape. By examining the impact of the pandemic on translation practices, this research aims to address a significant knowledge gap, focusing on key research questions related to the challenges, adaptations, and needs of translators in Saudi Arabia during this critical period.
Faced Challenges
It is essential to pay attention to the challenges and adaptations of translators during the COVID-19 pandemic in Saudi Arabia. Alkhatnai (2021) and Al-Jarf (2022) provide a comprehensive overview of the impact, highlighting the shift to remote work, increased demand for translation services, and specific challenges faced by translators (Espitia et al., 2022). The change of workplace had undeniable consequences, as it completely transformed the approach to the work of translators.
Another problem caused by the coronavirus pandemic is the lack of mediation in some employee households (Foti et al., 2023). A notable transition to remote work occurred alongside a rising demand for translation services, particularly within the medical sector (Alkhatnai, 2021). Al-Jarf (2022) further identified specific challenges, such as rapid changes in terminology and the need for accurate translations.
The strategies adopted by translators, including the use of social media platforms like Twitter, were highlighted by Carstensen et al. (2023) and Mohamad (2020). The language patterns and themes used by translators were analyzed using the theoretical framework provided by Gee (2014). The coronavirus pandemic has presented significant risks to workers in various roles, including translators.
Need for Translators
Another aspect worth paying attention to when considering the difficulties faced by Saudi Arabian translators is the need that requires fulfillment. Thus, one of the concerns was the introduction and use of more advanced technologies and tricks that improve the company’s activities. In addition, due to the significant shift in the working environment of individuals, Carstensen et al. (2023) and Mohamad (2020) offer insights indicating that many translators have begun using social media platforms, such as Twitter. James Paul Gee’s (2014) helps to understand language patterns and themes used by translators. Thus, among the primary needs of translators, those that were associated with a change of workplace were of particular importance (Arunprasad et al., 2022).
Among the needs of translators, it is also worth highlighting the need for accurate and up-to-date information related to COVID-19 and the changes it has brought about in this area. Moreover, these specialists required an exceptional understanding of their customers. This is because many of them remained dissatisfied without taking into account the circumstances that translators face, and they need to adapt to new conditions in the first place.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the coronavirus pandemic has contributed to the emergence of numerous difficulties for workers across various fields. In particular, it had a significant impact on translators in Saudi Arabia, who faced specific challenges. Hence, among the main ones, the change of workplace, the transformed approach to translator work, and the lack of mediation in some employee households were highlighted. The emergence of these problems necessitated the development of new strategies to mitigate their negative impact.
References
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