AN ANALYSIS OF THE BAD HABITS OF USING ONLINE TRANSLATORS FOR TRANSLATION SKILL

Translation is an important skill in English language learning that requires grammatical accuracy and understanding of meaning. Along with technological development, online translators are widely used by students to assist translation tasks. Although these tools offer convenience, their frequent use may influence students’ learning behavior. This study aims to analyze the bad habits arising from the use of online translators and how these habits affect students’ translation skills in the English Education Study Program of the University of Palangka Raya.
This study employed a qualitative research design. Data were collected through questionnaires distributed to 20 students who had completed the translation course and interviews with 10 selected students. The research instruments were based on four indicators: dishonesty in communication, negative thinking and excessive complaining, overdependence on technology and social media, and excessive use of online translators. The data were analyzed thematically to describe students’ experiences related to the use of online translators.
The findings indicate that several bad habits emerged from students’ use of online translators. Many students used online translators without informing their lecturers, showed low confidence in manual translation, relied on digital technology, and used online translators excessively in translation tasks. These habits tend to reduce students’ independence and limit the development of translation skills. Therefore, online translators should be used as supporting tools rather than primary resources, and guidance from lecturers is needed to encourage responsible use and greater learner independence.