Development and validation of the Self-Regulated Translation Learning Strategy Scale (SRTLSS)

Self-regulated learning (SRL) has been highlighted as a critical aspect of translation learning. However, past work in translation learning has rarely sought to synthesize translation learning strategies under a self-regulated learning paradigm. Further research would be confined by the paucity of a psychometrically sound instrument to measure learners' self-regulated translation learning strategies. This study aimed to develop a reliable and valid self-regulated translation learning strategy scale (SRTLSS). Based on relevant literature, we hypothesized a hierarchical model and generated items for the SRTLSS. Drawing on the response from 873 Chinese English majors, the validated SRTLSS had 25 items addressing five dimensions: self-control, meaning fulfillment, value and interest, text processing, and retrieving strategies. Results demonstrated the SRTLSS has good measurement validity and reliability with strong invariance across undergraduate and graduate students. The SRTLSS can be used as a complementary tool to diagnose learners' weaknesses and strengths in translation teaching and learning. •Measures for translation learning strategies are scarce and lack validity evidence.•This study developed the Self-Regulated Translation Learning Strategy Scale (SRTLSS).•The SRTLSS contains value and interest, retrieving strategies, meaning fulfilment, text processing, and self-control.•The SRTLSS was validated among Chinese EFL translation learners.•The SRTLSS had good reliability, construct validity, and strong measurement invariance.