Vietnamese-English Translation Errors and Pedagogical Implications in the Digital Age: A Case of English Major Students at a University in Vietnam

The current study aims to analyze common translation errors made by students majoring in English at Thu Dau Mot University (TDMU) when translating Vietnamese texts into English. In the current study, a mixed-methods approach was employed, which incorporated document analysis of 200 translation assignments and semi-structured interviews with five lecturers. It discovered that grammatical errors, such as the misuse of passive voice and incorrect use of the determiners, were the most frequent, followed by lexical errors, including inappropriate word selection and spelling mistakes. The study highlighted the impact of linguistic distinctions between Vietnamese and English, as well as cultural variations, on students’ translation performance. Moreover, students have limited exposure to authentic English content and practical translation exercises. The study recommends specific interventions such as supplemental grammar instruction, exposure to culturally significant texts, and ongoing practice through translation drills to train students to produce accurate and contextually appropriate translations. The research strives to rectify these issues to enhance translation pedagogy and better prepare students for the demands of professional translation in the digital age.