Ana Niño Alonso, SFHEA

I obtained a first degree in English Studies (BA) from The University of Valladolid (Spain). At this university, I developed an interest for translation and the pedagogy of teaching specialist languages and completed an MA in Specialized English/Spanish Translation in the Centre for Research on Bilingual Terminology, Specialized Translation and Contrastive Analysis (CITTAC).

At UMIST, I did an MSc in Machine Translation at the Centre for Computational Linguistics. This led me to pursue a PhD which investigated the connection between translation, Computer Aided Translation, Free Online Machine Translation, Computer Assisted Language Learning and language teaching/learning. I successfully completed it and, since then, I have disseminated my research findings to professionals and research students both nationally and internationally.

I have more than 20 years experience teaching Spanish in HE. Since 2006 I coordinate the LEAP/UWLP Spanish Programme and the MBChB with European Studies Medical Spanish Programme.

My research interests revolve around the connection between Online Machine Translation (OMT) and language learning. This includes foreign language written production plagiarism detection, and the learning of specialist and closely-related languages.

I am very interested in the use of technology enhanced language learning, including mobile apps, e-tools, Data Driven learning, Problem-based learning and Computer-mediated communication.

I am one of the top 100 reviewers for the CALL Journal, and I also review articles for the Language Learning and Technology Journal and the System Journal.

My teaching focuses on Spanish language and culture, advanced English/Spanish translation and Medical Spanish. I have also taught Spanish for STEM, Business Spanish and language pedagogy.

As Spanish coordinator, I am responsible for the curriculum development and assessment of some of the UWLP Spanish Programme course units and of the MBChB with European Studies Medical Spanish Programme courses.

I have also delivered training sessions for teachers, new tutors and GTFs.