Using AI to translate health guidance into multiple languages
Language Translation of Knowledge Mobilization Resources: A Randomized Trial
This project will test whether ChatGPT can translate a COVID-19 prevention guidance resource accurately and accessibly for adults in Canada whose first language is not English.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 350 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Alberta Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Edmonton, Alberta) |
| Trial ID | NCT07127887 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This interventional project compares translations produced by ChatGPT with professional human translations of a knowledge mobilization resource about preventing post‑COVID‑19 condition. Adults in Canada whose first language is one of seven selected languages will view translated materials online and complete questionnaires measuring understanding, cultural appropriateness, usability, and trust. Materials are delivered electronically and participant responses and comprehension scores will be collected to compare AI and professional outputs. Results will inform whether AI-generated translations could be an acceptable, scalable alternative to traditional translation services for public health materials.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults (18+) living in Canada whose first language is French, Spanish, Ukrainian, Tagalog, Arabic, Chinese, or Punjabi, who can read English, and who have internet access are ideal participants.
Not a fit: People under 18, those who do not live in Canada, whose first language is not one of the selected languages, or who lack internet or device access are not likely to benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could make accurate, culturally appropriate health information available more quickly and at lower cost to people who do not speak English.
How similar studies have performed: Some pilots and observational work have used AI for translation with mixed accuracy and cultural fit, but no controlled trials comparing AI to professional translations for knowledge mobilization resources aimed at the public have been reported.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * • 18 years of age or older * Living in Canada * First language is one of the selected languages (i.e. French, Spanish, Ukrainian, Tagalog, Arabic, Chinese, and Punjabi) * Able to read and complete a questionnaire in English * Access to an electronic device (e.g. computer or tablet), Internet and email Exclusion Criteria: * • Under the age of 18 years * Does not live in Canada * First language is not one of the selected languages (i.e. French, Spanish, Ukrainian, Tagalog, Arabic, Chinese, and Punjabi) * Unable to read and complete a questionnaire in English * No access to an electronic device (e.g. computer or tablet), Internet or email
Where this trial is running
Edmonton, Alberta
- University of Alberta — Edmonton, Alberta, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Lisa Hartling, PhD — University of Alberta
- Study coordinator: Sarah A Elliott, PhD
- Email: se2@ualberta.ca
- Phone: 587-341-5520
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.