Translating software: what it means and what it costs for small cultures and large cultures

Abstract A ease study of the experience of adapting a set of software for other languages and cultures, drew attention to the potential pitfalls. The experience was based on a project to translate the Work Rooms software for young learners into Bulgarian and Catalan. It was also hoped to broaden the debate on CAL, stimulating consideration of multicultural and international issues. While the questions raised by this particular adaptation of software are relevant to all those working with CAL, they have particular importance for software authors, publishers, and teachers of linguistic minorities.