Study of Translation Strategies for University Students’ English Language Learning in China

University students in China have been stressing how to learn and use English language accurately and effectively, because, in the future, they may become translators, interpreters, and English teachers, or become overseas students, international travelers and even emigrants. Thus, the author chose Chinese university students as the research subject to explore the impact of translation strategies on their English language learning and then to propose a Translation-based English Language Learning Program (Hereinafter referred to as TELLP) to improve the quality and effectiveness of their English language learning. A survey of 500 university students in total from 6 universities in China was conducted through the questionnaire survey. Quantitative and statistic methods and descriptive method were adopted in this study to describe and expound translation strategies and the difference of responses on translation strategies when grouped according to profile (sex, age, major and type of university). Through comprehensive analysis and discussion based on the data collection, some findings were found in the study. Firstly, Students frequently use bidirectional translation strategies, strategies for translation from English to Chinese, and strategies for translation from Chinese to English in their English learning, though a few students avoid the use of translation strategies. Additionally, students from public universities have a better assessment on the use of translation strategies for English learning, while the respondents aged 18-19 tend to avoid using translation strategies. Finally, a TELLP is proposed to serve as the guidance for Chinese students’ English language learning based on translation strategies.