A new report has found college staff relying on Google Translate to mark assignments submitted in Welsh, sparking accuracy concerns. Students transitioning from Welsh-medium to English-medium education experience significant challenges due to a shortage of Welsh-speaking staff. The report by the Welsh Language Commissioner highlights several barriers students face, such as delayed marking, differences in exam formats, and difficulties obtaining Welsh-language exam papers.
The report reveals that not all courses have staff proficient in Welsh, forcing the use of translation tools, which can lead to loss of meaning and idiom. Inconsistent exam structures, with essays required for Welsh papers but multiple-choice for English, also raise fairness issues. Students express frustration over translation delays that slow feedback and disadvantage them.
Research shows that Welsh-language provision is inconsistent across institutions, often relying on individual efforts rather than institutional systems. The report calls for standardising Welsh-medium assessments, addressing workforce skill gaps, and promoting Welsh as more than an option. Despite challenges, many students are pleased with the encouragement they receive to use Welsh, noting positive interactions when staff use simple Welsh phrases.
Improving the Welsh-language experience, fostering a sense of belonging, and ensuring consistency in Welsh-medium education are key recommendations. Institutions are encouraged to plan and promote their Welsh language offerings to meet statutory duties and enhance the educational experience. With proactive efforts, the hope is to create an environment where the Welsh language thrives in education and beyond.