Translation Apps for students

 

I have recently had a number of new students arriving at my small school. Most of them speak Spanish, and many of the teachers I work with have limited ability in that language. So... right now there are a number of teachers just trying to figure out how to communicate.

TimeKettle

My school had purchased TimeKettle translation earbuds.  These use a mobile device, such as an iPad to run translation. There are several earbud models, in varying price ranges. So far, these have been useful.

They use an app called TimeKettle iOS or Android to use the device to help with the Translation. There are several modes for translation, but some work well for one on one translation, and others work better when you have multiple students needing translation. I suggest the 'Listen Mode' when you have more than one student, and the Simul mode when you have a longer one on one conversation to do.

Microsoft Translator

Another method does not need a fancy iPad or earbuds. Microsoft Translator is another great resource, that can work on Chromebooks, Macbooks, and other devices. It can work on your phone, iPad as well!

Simply travel to the web address here, or download the appropriate app for your device in it's store.
Microsoft Translator also can work within a Teams meeting, so that you can translate for a parent teacher conference, or other time over distance.
None of these options are perfect. But, they do lend a hand in a classroom where teachers and students do not share a first language.