Lifecyle Design and Effectiveness Evaluation for Simulated Translation Agencies

Current demands from technology-based translation industry and market require adequate educational offerings to be provided at Master's Level Degree. Therefore, novel and more engaging strategies for complementing traditional theoretical lessons and laboratory sessions on computer-assisted translation are needed to improve students' skills and technical acquaintance, as suggested by the European Master's in Translation Competence Framework. The Simulated Translation Agency (STA) holistic approach promises to be a key enabler capable of motivating students to manage a fictional company according to a professional translation workflow. In this paper, a methodology based on Business Process Modelling (BPM) for designing cloud-enabled STAs grounded on competence frameworks and professional standards is proposed, along with a set of metrics targeting student self-assessment and agency productivity. The "STARS" agency, designed and deployed according to the proposed methodology in an Italian university, is described in detail as a test case. Achieved results demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach as well as the significant engagement of participants.