Computing and Bible translation

Have you ever thought about dedicating your high-tech abilities to something of lasting value? Your computer skills can make an eternal difference in people’s lives. Whether developing new software, managing networking systems or training linguist-translators, you can make a difference! We have urgent needs for computer experts with a desire to help get God’s Word translated into the world’s unwritten languages.

TECHNOLOGY has changed the way Bible translation is done

In more than 60 countries, the Wycliffe team uses a variety of computer software and systems to tackle such diverse tasks as information management, office automation, specialised linguistic analysis and data management, worldwide email and more.
Wycliffe personnel use computers extensively in the study of unwritten languages. This has helped produce more accurate manuscripts. With specialised programs, linguistics and translation specialists can now more easily listen to, identify and write down the sounds of each language. They can record, edit and save their work, carry a host of Bible and translation helps on a CD-ROM and receive help at their field workstation from other linguists and computer experts.

This is a CUTTING-EDGE ministry

Wycliffe experts use the latest technology as they rise to the challenge of providing computing and communication services in various areas. Here are four examples:
> Language Research - Developing language analysis applications specific to the translation process
> Publishing - Publishing Scriptures and literacy materials, scientific articles and public relations literature, displaying Roman as well as non-Roman scripts
> Business Applications - Developing and supporting business applications to ensure smooth administrative and financial operations
> Training - Preparing and presenting training materials that are readily accessible around the world, technically accurate yet easy to follow and which can be translated
into major languages for non-English speakers

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

Most of these positions are overseas but some exist within New Zealand.
> Computer Maintenance Technician
> Computer Project Manager
> Computer Technical Writer
> Consultant/Trainer Applications
> Desktop Publishing Specialist
> Multi-Skilled Computer Specialist
> Network Administrator
> Software/Data Librarian
> Software Developer
> Systems Analyst
> Web Author

To check out more opportunities and the details of the programs go here: http://www.sil.org/computing/

IT innovation in missions

Wycliffe IT specialists, whether they acquire, adapt or invent, are always looking for new technologies that will aid Bible translation. Wycliffe offers exciting possibilities
with computing technology in the ministry and process of Bible translation. We have a team of specialists developing language analysis applications and resources such as:
> The non-Roman script initiative - Using computers for non-Roman languages with fonts specially created for these languages - such languages are found throughout Asia. These fonts allow for materials including Bible translations to be published
> Acoustic speech analysis - Recording, analysing and storing audio recordings of unwritten languages - the first steps for preparation
for Bible translation
> CARLA and Adapt It - Programs that aid the adaptation of completed Bible translations into related languages
> Lingualinks - A knowledge support system for Bible translation and linguistics, including electronic manuals
> Fieldworks - A specific suite of data and applications designed to support linguistics and Bible translation
> Shoebox - A dictionary-oriented database management program for the linguist-Bible translator
> Translators Workplace - More than 200 volumes of research commentaries and reference materials, 22 versions of the Bible, the Hebrew Old Testament and the Greek New Testament on one compact disc - the essential reference material for all Bible translators

What is the SALARY?

Wycliffe is a non-profit multi-denominational Christian service mission that does not offer employment. Our members learn to trust God to provide their financial support through the gifts of churches and individuals. However, Wycliffe does provide the specialised training to get you on your way in raising your own prayer and financial support. Our experience is that the Lord is faithful and he will be to you as well.

IT_in_translation_nz.pdf (210.33 KB)