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Written question asked by Bridget Phillipson (Labour) on Thursday, 31 March 2022, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 19 April 2022. It was answered by Robin Walker (Conservative) on Thursday, 21 April 2022 on behalf of the Department for Education.

Textbooks: Languages

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, pursuant to his answer on teaching materials for Ukrainian-speaking and Russian-speaking children (question 145854), what steps he has taken to assure the precision, accuracy, usability, and suitability for children of the automatic translations he has prepared for children through Oak National Academy, in respect of (i) Ukrainian, and (ii) Russian.

Answer

Oak National Academy has enabled users to auto-translate its 10,000 lessons into a variety of languages, including Ukrainian and Russian. This is enabled through automatic translations services offered by major internet browsers, as well as through the integration of online translation tools into its lesson resources.

As an automated online service, while 100% accuracy cannot be guaranteed, these tools are of high quality and high accuracy. The service is designed as a rapid, temporary measure to support families fleeing the war with access to educational content, helping their transition to some routine and stability within the safety of the UK.

As part of its standard working practice, Oak National Academy responds to user feedback (including from teachers and parents as well as pupils) to ensure content remains high-quality and any questions are addressed as soon as possible.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
151064
Session
2021-22
Related items
Textbooks: Languages
Monday, 28 March 2022
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects
Textbooks Russian language Oak National Academy Ukrainian language
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk