Challenges and constraints in designing a localization module for a multilingual cohort

The purpose of this contribution is to explore some of the challenges that may arise in designing a module in localisation at postgraduate level for a multilingual cohort. This will be achieved by drawing on personal experience at London Metropolitan University, a higher education institution in the UK, and by reflecting on the strategies implemented to overcome these challenges. Special attention will be paid to key issues such as the required resources (both human and technical), students’ needs and expectations, and how to ensure an effective alignment between the curriculum and professional practices. Specific challenges and constraints, such as the increasing heterogeneity of cohorts, particularly in terms of students’ backgrounds and language combinations, will also be explored. Although this heterogeneity can be difficult to manage and will have an impact on the resources needed, it can also be seen as an opportunity to increase students’ awareness of cultural differences, which is key to working in localisation.