Pocketalk Translation in Schools: An Ecosystem for Inclusive Education

During the 2024-2025 academic year, Pocketalk launched an ambitious programme across multiple schools in France, Germany and the UK. The project’s aim was to facilitate the inclusion, education, and integration of students whose first language is not that of the local country, by using innovative instant translation technology. Findings from on-site evaluations in France, which included schools such as Simone Veil Primary School (Argenteuil), Françoise Dolto School (Les Herbiers), and Marie Curie School (Tarascon), demonstrate clear and sustainable benefits for students, educators, and families alike.

Challenges Before Pocketalk

Regardless of the location, all schools faced similar struggles prior to adopting Pocketalk.

Daily Language Barriers

Communication often relied on gestures, simplified language, or assistance from students and parents proficient in German. Despite their best efforts, misunderstandings were common, leading to frustration for teachers, families, and students.

Integration and Isolation

Without effective tools for delivering precise instructions or personalised support, foreign-speaking students were frequently isolated, hindering both their academic and social development.

Limited Resources

The lack of appropriate tools and the time-intensive demands of providing individual support for non-German-speaking students placed significant strain on teachers. Additionally, involving non-German-speaking parents in their child’s education proved challenging.

Pocketalk in Schools: Measurable Results

The implementation of Pocketalk brought significant improvements to participating schools. Key benefits include:

Reliable and Simplified Communication

Pocketalk provides direct translations with an estimated accuracy of over 95% in educational settings. This has significantly streamlined communication in parent meetings, emergencies, and even complex topics like academic planning.

“With Pocketalk, we feel confident addressing any topic—even sensitive ones. This was almost impossible before.” – Teacher, Françoise Dolto School

Time Savings and Reduced Frustration

Teachers no longer need to translate materials at home or wait for interpreters. The time saved is reinvested in students’ education.

“I don’t have to translate documents at home anymore. This saves so much time!” – Teacher, Simone Veil School

Improved Integration and Participation

Across all participating schools, Pocketalk has enabled students to engage more actively in lessons and classroom activities. Additionally, parents feel more involved due to the ease of communication.

“Other students hear the translation and assist with integration. This has sparked their curiosity.” – Teacher, Françoise Dolto School

Building Trustful Relationships

Pocketalk has not only bridged language gaps but has also strengthened the trust between schools and families. Parents appreciate being able to communicate directly with teachers without relying on intermediaries.

“Pocketalk feels like an extension of my voice. I was able to speak directly with Colombian parents, and they were relieved to get answers from me personally.” – Teacher, Marie Curie School

Future Recommendations

While Pocketalk has already driven remarkable progress, users have identified areas for further development:

• Automatic Language Detection: This feature would be especially useful for newly arrived families.
• Customisable Language Libraries: Teachers could create vocabulary tailored to their school environment, optimising Pocketalk’s performance.
• Temporary Use: Pocketalk could help students integrate quickly while encouraging gradual immersion in the German language.

Pocketalk—A Step Closer to Inclusive Education

The school programme’s results highlight significant transformations in participating institutions. Pocketalk not only fosters intercultural exchange but also offers a secure, GDPR-compliant solution that respects data privacy.

Key Findings:

• Instant translation in over 92 languages
• Easy and intuitive operation
• Time savings and reduced stress for teachers
• Enhanced student integration and parental involvement
• Lower translation costs

Pocketalk empowers schools to become inclusive, dynamic environments where all students have equal opportunities, regardless of their native language. This is a vital step toward inclusive education that benefits students, parents, and teachers alike.