The Benefits of Using Google Translate to Help EFL Students in Accomplishing Thesis Writing

Abstract

Writing a thesis in English presents many challenges for EFL students, including limited vocabulary, grammar difficulties, and lack of confidence. In the era of digital tools, Google Translate emerges as a practical support tool to help students in overcoming these challenges. Several studies have discussed how Google Translate enhances vocabulary, supports writing, and boosts student confidence. However, fewer have focused specifically on its benefits in helping students write their undergraduate thesis. This study aims to explore the benefits students gain from using Google Translate throughout the thesis writing process. This research used a qualitative method with a case study design. The study was conducted at a university in Jember, East Java, with two participants from the English Education Study Program who had used Google Translate during their thesis writing. Data was collected through semi structured interviews conducted in Indonesian and translated into English. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis with an inductive approach. The results revealed two themes benefits of using Google Translate: Facilitation of the Writing Process, and Enhancement of Writing Quality. Participants felt that using Google Translate allowed them to write faster by drafting in Indonesian and translating into English. It helped them translate complex ideas, find appropriate vocabulary, and understand academic texts. Furthermore, students used the tool for proofreading, grammar checking, and improving sentence structure, which indirectly enhanced their English proficiency. Most importantly, the tool gave them the confidence to write and complete their thesis. This study is expected to benefit English Education students by showing how Google Translate can be used effectively during the thesis writing process. It also contributes to the understanding of how digital tools support academic writing and provides insights for educators and future researchers on integrating translation tools in EFL academic.