On the lookout for accessible translation aids: current scenario and new horizons for blind translation students and professionals

The introduction of specialised computer software to support translation practice has
shaped the translation industry landscape, transforming the use of Computer Assisted
Translation (CAT) systems into a prime requirement for translators to successfully
enter the marketplace. This technological turn has placed visually impaired translation
students −and professionals− at a disadvantage with respect to their sighted peers, as a
seamless interaction between translation software and assistive technologies (AT) is
not always guaranteed. By drawing on data collected over the last five years from two
main exploratory studies involving students and experienced translation practitioners
with visual impairments, this paper aims at providing a snapshot of the current state of
the art concerning the accessibility of CAT tools for blind users. Additionally, we
attempt to offer some insight into the pedagogical implications of the latter for
translation technology training in a university setting. In general terms, our findings
reveal that the inaccessible design of the most popular CAT systems and the lack of
appropriate support from their developers may limit the chances of blind students of
fully developing their translation careers. Similarly, they urge for a change of mindset
among both tool developers and translation technology lecturers.